Ep 13. American Slicer

In the season 11 episode 13 of Good Eats titled "American Slicer," host Alton Brown explores the world of meat slicers and their history in American kitchens. Brown kicks off the episode by showcasing the different types of meat slicers that exist and what they are best used for. He goes over the different blade sizes, motor speeds, and other features that make each slicer unique.

Next, Brown delves into the history of meat slicers in the United States. He explains that during the late 1800s and early 1900s, meat slicers were all the rage in butcher shops and high-end restaurants. However, they were not commonly used in home kitchens until the 1950s when companies like Chef's Choice and Cuisinart started manufacturing smaller, more affordable slicers for the average consumer.

After going through the history lesson, Brown puts the slicers to the test. He travels to the West Coast to visit a meat processing facility where he gets to see how large meat slicers are used to slice meats like prosciutto and pancetta. He then heads back to his own kitchen to demonstrate how to properly slice a variety of meats such as turkey breast, pastrami, and ham using home meat slicers.

Brown also discusses the benefits and drawbacks of purchasing pre-sliced meat versus slicing it at home. He points out that pre-sliced meats can be convenient but are often filled with preservatives and other additives. Slicing meat at home not only allows for greater control over the thickness of the slices, but it also ensures that the meat is fresher and free of additives.

Throughout the episode, Brown also shares a few of his recipes that rely heavily on sliced meat, including a turkey and apple sandwich that he makes using sliced turkey breast and a homemade honey mustard sauce. He also shows viewers how to make a delicious French dip sandwich using sliced roast beef.

In addition to showcasing the different types of meat slicers and their uses, Brown also offers tips and tricks for keeping slicers in tip-top shape. He demonstrates how to clean and maintain slicer blades to prevent them from becoming dull or corroded.

Overall, the "American Slicer" episode of Good Eats is a fascinating exploration into the world of meat slicers and their important role in American kitchens. Brown's passion for food and his attention to detail make this episode not only informative but also entertaining and engaging. Don't miss out on this exciting and educational episode!