Ep 6. Fried Chicken and Grilled Peppers

In Cook's Country season 8 episode 6, titled "Fried Chicken and Grilled Peppers," the hosts set out to perfect two classic Southern dishes: fried chicken and grilled peppers.

First up is the fried chicken, which the hosts explain is a labor-intensive dish that requires a lot of prep work. They start by brining the chicken in a mixture of buttermilk, salt, and cayenne pepper for several hours. This not only helps to tenderize the meat, but also adds flavor. Next, they create a spiced flour mixture using ingredients like paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. The chicken is then coated in this flour mixture and fried in oil until golden brown and cooked through.

However, the hosts note that while the chicken may look perfect on the outside, it's important to also make sure it's cooked all the way through on the inside. To ensure this, they recommend using a meat thermometer and checking the internal temperature of the chicken.

Next, the hosts turn their attention to the grilled peppers. They explain that while peppers are often grilled as a side dish, they can also be used as a main ingredient in a dish. To make the grilled peppers, they start by charring the peppers over direct heat on the grill until the skin is blackened. They then transfer the peppers to a plastic bag to steam for a few minutes. This helps to loosen the skin, which can then be easily peeled off.

Once the skin is removed, the hosts slice the peppers into strips and toss them with a vinaigrette made from ingredients like red wine vinegar, olive oil, and garlic. The result is a flavorful and colorful side dish that can be served hot or cold.

As always, the hosts of Cook's Country provide helpful cooking tips and tricks throughout the episode, such as how to properly cut a whole chicken into pieces and how to keep the oil at the right temperature when frying. They also share interesting tidbits about the history and origins of these Southern classics.

Overall, "Fried Chicken and Grilled Peppers" is a mouth-watering episode that showcases two beloved dishes in a new and delicious way.