Ep 1. Short Order Breakfast Classics

In the first episode of season 7 of Cook's Country from America's Test Kitchen, titled "Short Order Breakfast Classics," the team takes on the challenge of recreating classic breakfast dishes that are easy to make at home. Throughout the episode, the hosts showcase their take on four breakfast staples: hash browns, eggs Benedict, buttermilk pancakes, and cinnamon rolls.

The show begins with a tutorial on how to make the perfect hash browns, which requires a little bit of extra effort to get right. The hosts explain that the key to crispy hash browns is to remove as much moisture from the potatoes as possible before frying them in a cast-iron skillet. They also recommend grating the potatoes by hand instead of using a food processor, as this allows for more control over the texture. After frying the potatoes in hot oil, the hosts add in some diced onions and seasonings, resulting in a delicious breakfast side dish that's worth the extra effort.

Next up is eggs Benedict, a dish that can be intimidating to make at home but is actually quite simple with the right technique. The hosts show viewers how to make a foolproof hollandaise sauce using a blender, which eliminates the need for whisking constantly over a double boiler. They also provide tips on how to perfectly poach eggs, which involves adding a bit of vinegar to the water and gently swirling it around before cracking in the eggs. Once all the components are ready, the hosts assemble the dish and dig in to the mouthwatering result.

Moving on to pancakes, the hosts share their recipe for buttermilk pancakes that are light and fluffy without being too sweet. They explain that the key to achieving the perfect texture is to mix the batter just until all the ingredients are combined, as overmixing can result in tough, rubbery pancakes. They also provide tips on how to know when to flip the pancakes, such as looking for bubbles on the surface and checking the edges for firmness. The hosts top the pancakes with butter and maple syrup, resulting in a classic breakfast dish that's sure to please.

Finally, the hosts tackle cinnamon rolls, a sweet treat that's perfect for breakfast or brunch. They start by making the dough from scratch and rolling it out into a long rectangle. They then spread a mixture of butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon over the dough before rolling it up and cutting it into slices. After letting the rolls rise and baking them in the oven, the hosts finish the dish with a cream cheese frosting that's rich and indulgent.

Throughout the episode, the hosts provide valuable tips and tricks for making these classic breakfast dishes at home. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just getting started in the kitchen, Cook's Country from America's Test Kitchen is a must-watch for anyone who loves delicious and comforting home-cooked meals.