Ep 9. Art of Darkness II

In Good Eats season 5 episode 9, titled Art of Darkness II, host Alton Brown delves deeper into the world of cooking with chocolate. Brown teaches viewers the secrets of using chocolate to create a variety of sweet and savory dishes.

The episode begins with Brown explaining the different varieties of chocolate available and their various uses. He then dives into the history of chocolate and how it has been used in cooking throughout time. Brown provides tips on how to melt chocolate properly and how to avoid common mistakes, such as scorching or seizing.

One of the main highlights of the episode is Brown’s demonstration of the versatility of chocolate. He shows viewers how it can be used to create sweet dishes such as chocolate truffles, hot fudge and chocolate cake. Brown also teaches viewers how to incorporate chocolate into savory dishes such as mole and cocoa-rubbed steak.

Throughout the episode, Brown emphasizes the importance of using high-quality chocolate when cooking. He recommends using chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa, which he deems as the most flavorful type.

Brown also provides insight into the science behind chocolate. He discusses how chocolate contains compounds that can affect mood and how it interacts with the brain’s pleasure centers. Viewers will learn how to properly temper chocolate to achieve a perfect shine and texture in their creations.

The episode also covers the tools and equipment needed to work with chocolate. Brown shares his recommendations for the best types of knives, measuring cups, and molds to use when working with chocolate.

Finally, Brown demonstrates how to create a beautiful chocolate showpiece, which can be used as a centerpiece for special occasions. He shows viewers how to create intricate designs using chocolate and how to properly store the showpiece until it’s ready to be displayed.

In summary, Good Eats season 5 episode 9, Art of Darkness II, is an informative and entertaining guide to cooking with chocolate. From its history to its versatility, Brown provides viewers with a comprehensive understanding of how to work with this beloved ingredient. Whether cooking sweet or savory dishes, viewers will come away from this episode with a newfound appreciation for the art of chocolate.