Ep 12. Bringing Home Tex-Mex Favorites

In Cook's Country season 8 episode 12, titled "Bringing Home Tex-Mex Favorites," the hosts set out to recreate some of the best Tex-Mex dishes from around the country. From crispy beef tacos to cheesy enchiladas, this episode is a celebration of the bold flavors and vibrant colors of Tex-Mex cuisine.

The episode begins with a visit to one of the top Mexican restaurants in Austin, Texas, where the hosts sample some of the restaurant's signature dishes. They then head back to the test kitchen to develop recipes that capture the essence of these flavors in an accessible and home-friendly format.

The first recipe tackled in this episode is classic beef tacos. The hosts show viewers how to make the perfect taco shell from scratch, and then fill it with a flavorful beef filling that's been seasoned with a blend of spices and slow-cooked until tender. They also reveal a secret ingredient that makes these tacos truly unforgettable.

Next up is a recipe for cheese enchiladas that's inspired by a popular restaurant in New Mexico. The hosts take their time to perfect the recipe, experimenting with different kinds of cheese and techniques for making the sauce. The end result is a dish that's creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor.

Another Tex-Mex staple that gets the Cook's Country treatment in this episode is chili con carne. The hosts share the secrets to making a perfectly balanced chili that's spicy, savory, and just a little sweet. They also showcase a few different ways to serve and enjoy this classic dish.

For a lighter option, the hosts whip up a batch of spicy shrimp ceviche. This refreshing dish features juicy shrimp, tangy lime juice, and a kick of jalapeno. The hosts also offer tips for minimizing the heat of the peppers for those who prefer a milder version.

Finally, the episode concludes with a recipe for tres leches cake. This classic Mexican dessert is a sweet and rich treat that's perfect for any occasion. The hosts show viewers how to make a perfectly moist sponge cake that's soaked in a three-milk mixture and topped with a fluffy whipped cream frosting.

Throughout the episode, the hosts share interesting facts and stories about the history and cultural significance of these Tex-Mex favorites. Viewers will learn about the origins of the taco, the role of cheese in Mexican cuisine, and the evolution of chili con carne. In true Cook's Country fashion, each recipe is thoroughly tested and thoughtfully developed to ensure that home cooks can achieve delicious results every time.

Overall, "Bringing Home Tex-Mex Favorites" is a fun and delicious exploration of one of America's most beloved regional cuisines. Whether you're a Tex-Mex aficionado or a curious home cook, this episode is sure to inspire you to try something new and delicious in the kitchen.