Ep 3. A Hearty Fall Dinner

In Cook's Country season 8 episode 3 titled "A Hearty Fall Dinner," the hosts present a selection of satisfying meals perfect for cool weather. The episode begins with a recipe for a savory Beef Stroganoff, featuring tender cuts of sirloin steak in a rich sour cream sauce. The hosts offer tips for ensuring the meat is perfectly cooked and the sauce has the right balance of spices.

Next, the focus shifts to a classic American dish with a twist: a Slow Cooker version of Chicken Pot Pie. This recipe guarantees a creamy filling with perfectly cooked vegetables and chicken, but with the added ease of using a slow cooker. The hosts also show how to make a golden biscuit topping that adds a little crunch to the dish.

The show then turns to a side dish that will warm up any dinner table: Cheesy Potato Casserole. This layered dish includes potatoes, sour cream, and cheese, all baked in the oven to a crispy perfection. The hosts emphasize using the right cheeses to melt perfectly and giving the casserole enough time in the oven to get the right texture.

The next recipe calls for a bit of sweet and savory mixing in the form of Apple Cider-Glazed Pork Chops. The pork chops are first seared in a skillet, then coated with a glaze of cider, mustard, and cinnamon. The result is a combination of flavors that highlight the fall season. The hosts add a side of Brussels sprouts cooked in butter and apple cider vinegar.

Lastly, the episode finishes with a decadent dessert: Espresso Pie with Chocolate Cookie Crust. This dessert combines the richness of espresso with the sweetness of chocolate, all in a buttery cookie crust. The hosts explain how to make the perfect crust and pie filling, with tips on how to keep the texture and flavors balanced.

Throughout the episode, the hosts also provide insightful tips and tricks for cooking, such as the best way to properly sear meat and how to ensure potatoes cook evenly. Each recipe highlights the flavors of fall, providing hearty, warm meals perfect for any dinner table. "A Hearty Fall Dinner" is an episode that showcases the best of seasonal cooking and provides new twists on classic dishes that are sure to please the entire family.