Ep 12. Favorites with a Chinese Accent

In Cook's Country season 6 episode 12, titled Favorites with a Chinese Accent, the show's hosts explore Chinese cuisine and put their own twist on classic Chinese dishes.

The episode begins with host Bridget Lancaster preparing a flavorful and fragrant hot and sour soup, a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine. She uses ingredients such as Chinese black vinegar, wood ear mushrooms, and tofu to create a hearty and satisfying soup.

Next, co-host Julia Collin Davison takes on a favorite Chinese dish: General Tso's chicken. Instead of deep frying the chicken, she opts for pan-frying to make it a bit healthier without sacrificing taste. She also creates her own sauce using soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, and honey for a perfectly balanced sweet and savory flavor.

The episode then takes a turn towards dessert as host Erin McMurrer prepares Chinese almond cookies, a simple yet delicious treat commonly served during Chinese New Year celebrations. She incorporates crunchy sliced almonds into the buttery cookie dough and finishes them off with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Finally, the show's test kitchen director, Jack Bishop, presents a segment on the wok, a staple in Chinese cooking. He explains the benefits of using a wok over a traditional frying pan, including its ability to quickly cook ingredients at high temperatures and create that coveted smoky flavor.

Throughout the episode, viewers will also learn about the history and cultural significance behind each dish and ingredient, including the origins of hot and sour soup and the significance of almond cookies during Chinese New Year.

Overall, Favorites with a Chinese Accent is a mouth-watering episode that showcases the versatility and richness of Chinese cuisine while putting a fresh spin on classic dishes. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or just starting out, this episode is sure to inspire you to add some Chinese flair to your own cooking.