Ep 1. Hearty Autumn Dinner

In the first episode of Cook's Country season 5, titled "Hearty Autumn Dinner," the crew sets out to create a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for a chilly fall night. The episode begins with a visit to a farm that specializes in heritage breeds of pork, which serves as the inspiration for the featured recipe: cider-brined pork roast.

Host Christopher Kimball and test cook Bridget Lancaster guide viewers through the steps of brining the pork, making a flavorful sauce out of pan drippings, and serving it up with a side of cheesy mashed potatoes and roasted Brussels sprouts. Throughout the episode, they also offer tips and tricks for achieving the perfect texture and flavor in every element of the meal.

Along the way, viewers get a glimpse into the history and cultural significance of some of the ingredients used in the recipe, such as the origin of cider in colonial America and the evolution of the Brussels sprout from a despised vegetable to a culinary favorite.

In addition to the main recipe, the episode also includes two bonus segments. First up is a tutorial on how to make a hearty beef and vegetable stew using a pressure cooker, which saves time without sacrificing flavor. Then, test cook Julia Collin Davison demonstrates how to create a homemade version of a popular snack food: cheese crackers. With a combination of cheddar cheese, butter, and spices, these crackers are a simple but satisfying snack that are sure to please both kids and adults.

Overall, the "Hearty Autumn Dinner" episode of Cook's Country season 5 offers viewers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for creating delicious and comforting meals during the fall season. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, there's something for everyone in this episode.