Ep 10. The Once and Future Fish

Good Eats is a beloved cooking show that has been on the air since 1999, and its 13th season episode 10, named The Once and Future Fish, revolves around a topic that is close to many people's hearts - fish.

Host Alton Brown delves into the history and cultural significance of fish, going all the way back to prehistoric times. Brown traces the evolution of fish and their relationship with humans over time, from the days when people caught fish with their bare hands to the modern era of industrial fishing.

Throughout the episode, Brown explores various species of fish and how they can be cooked and prepared. He also shares tips on how to choose the best fish, how to store it properly, and how to avoid overfishing and damaging the environment.

One of the highlights of the episode is Brown's in-depth exploration of salmon, one of the most popular fish in the world. Brown takes a close look at the different types of salmon and how they vary in taste and texture, as well as the best ways to cook each kind. He also discusses the health benefits of salmon and how to ensure that it is sustainably sourced.

Another segment of the show focuses on underutilized fish species like the whiting, which Brown saying “It’s just this weird fish so it needs something to make it interesting,” creating a dish of roasted whiting with cashew and bleu cheese stuffing perfect for serving to guests.

Throughout the episode, Brown peppers his discussions of fish with his trademark mix of humor, science, and passion for good food. He goes into deep detail about the history of using fish for food and how the ecology of the sea has changed over time so dramatically that the species available at your local market may drastically differ than just a decade ago.

The episode even has Brown addressing the personal opinion that comes with fish, saying “Fish is personal. It’s personal to cook, it’s personal to order, it’s personal to eat. So what fish do you like?” making it a unique journey into not just fish but how people’s preferences come into play while cooking.

Overall, Good Eats season 13 episode 10 The Once and Future Fish offers a fascinating and informative look at one of the world's most important food sources. Brown showcases a wide variety of fish and provides viewers with practical tips and tricks for cooking with them. The production quality of the episode is also top-notch, with stunning visuals and brilliant explanation while handling complex information. It’s a show that anyone interested in seafood and cooking will want to watch, and one that will certainly make you think about the foods that you consume and the effects they have on the world around us.