Ep 12. Use Your Noodle II

Use Your Noodle II is the twelfth episode of the sixth season of Good Eats, hosted by Alton Brown. In this episode, Brown delves deep into the art of making noodles from scratch.

He starts by explaining that noodles aren't just limited to the commonly known classics like spaghetti and lasagna. Noodles come in various forms and sizes and are popular in many cultures, from Vietnamese pho to Japanese udon to Italian tortellini.

Brown then proceeds to make his own noodle dough, consisting of flour, eggs, water, and spinach. He emphasizes the importance of kneading the dough thoroughly and rolling it out to the desired thickness. He then shows how to cut the noodles into different shapes, including fettuccine and pappardelle.

Next, Brown reveals that cooking noodles involves a lot more than just boiling them in salted water. He explains that the type of water and salt used can affect the overall quality of the noodles. Additionally, different types of noodles require different cooking times and techniques. For example, fresh noodles require only a few minutes to cook, while dried noodles may take up to ten minutes.

As he prepares various noodle dishes, Brown also offers tips and tricks for getting the most flavor out of your noodles. He suggests adding aromatics like garlic and ginger to the cooking water for a subtle flavor boost, or sautéing the noodles with herbs and spices for a more robust flavor.

Throughout the episode, Brown also explores the cultural significance of noodles in different parts of the world. For instance, he explains that in Japan, the sound of slurping noodles is considered a compliment to the chef and shows that the diner is enjoying the dish. He also shares fun facts, like how the word 'spaghetti' comes from the Italian word for string.

As always, Brown's approach to cooking is informative and entertaining. He explores each aspect of noodle-making with precision and humor, offering viewers a comprehensive guide to one of the world's oldest and most beloved food staples. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, Use Your Noodle II is sure to inspire you to experiment with making your own noodles at home.