Ep 2. Oat Cuisine

Good Eats is an American television cooking show that combines humor and scientific explanations of techniques and ingredients to educate viewers. In season 5 episode 2, titled "Oat Cuisine," host Alton Brown explores the versatility and nutritional benefits of oats.

The episode begins with Alton explaining the history of oats and how they were once considered a weed before being cultivated for their nutritious properties. He then demonstrates how to cook oatmeal without turning it into a gluey, unappetizing mess by using the right technique and ratio of liquid to oats.

Next, Alton introduces viewers to the world of savory oats by making a French-style soup called potage, which features oats as the base instead of the traditional potatoes. He also gives a nod to Scottish cuisine with his recipe for oatcakes, a dense and crumbly biscuit-like snack that can be enjoyed with a savory or sweet topping.

Alton then turns his attention to sweet oats, showcasing how versatile they are in baking. He demonstrates how to make a simple oat flour using a food processor and then uses it to make oatmeal raisin cookies that are moist and chewy.

Finally, Alton gets creative with oats by making an interesting dessert he calls "oat cream." He combines oats, sugar, and water in a blender to create a creamy, dairy-free dessert that can be flavored with anything from vanilla to cocoa powder.

Throughout the episode, Alton educates viewers about the nutritional benefits of oats, explaining how they can help lower cholesterol and regulate blood sugar levels. He also emphasizes the importance of selecting the right type of oats for each recipe, whether it's steel-cut, rolled, or instant.

Overall, "Oat Cuisine" is an informative and fun episode that showcases the versatility of oats and how they can be incorporated into a variety of dishes, from savory soups to sweet treats. Viewers will learn new techniques and recipes while also gaining a greater appreciation for this humble and nutritious grain.