Ep 4. French Cooking With Ann Willan

From Martha’s Kitchen season 4 episode 4 is titled French Cooking With Ann Willan. In this episode, renowned chef and culinary historian Ann Willan joins Martha in the kitchen to teach viewers how to cook some French classics. The episode starts with an introduction to Ann Willan, who shares her passion for French cuisine and her experience studying at the prestigious culinary school, Le Cordon Bleu.

Martha then leads Ann through a step-by-step demonstration of how to make a classic French dish, Coq au Vin. Together they break down the steps and showcase the technique required to make this rich and flavorful dish. Throughout the demonstration, Ann provides insight into the history and origins of the dish, which becomes a fascinating lesson in French culinary history.

Next, the pair move on to making a rich and creamy Mushroom Velouté Soup. Ann once again provides tips on how to achieve the perfect texture and flavor balance. Her expert knowledge of French cuisine shines through in the techniques she uses to create a silky smooth soup. The pair discuss the importance of using fresh ingredients and how to choose the perfect mushrooms for the dish.

The episode also features a segment on baking French bread. Ann shares her recipe for pain de campagne, a classic French loaf with a crispy crust and a chewy, moist interior. Once again, Ann shares her knowledge of French baking techniques, such as how to achieve the perfect rise and how to properly shape the dough.

To finish off the episode, Martha and Ann create a classic French dessert, Crème Brûlée. Ann walks viewers through the steps of making the custard base and how to perfectly caramelize the sugar topping. She also provides tips on how to create different flavor variations of the dessert.

Throughout the episode, Ann’s passion for French cooking shines through. Her wealth of knowledge and expertise is a testament to her years of experience in the culinary industry. Martha and Ann have a fun and engaging dynamic, making for an enjoyable and educational cooking experience.

In French Cooking with Ann Willan, viewers are treated to an in-depth look at the history, techniques, and flavors behind classic French dishes. This episode is a must-watch for any food enthusiast looking to expand their culinary knowledge and learn about one of the most iconic cuisines in the world.