Ep 18. I Pie

In season 7, episode 18 of Good Eats titled I Pie, host Alton Brown takes viewers on a journey to master the art of making pies. The episode primarily focuses on the crust, as Alton teaches viewers how to make a crust that is crisp, flaky, and delicious.

Alton begins the episode by sharing his philosophy on pie making, explaining that pies are not just desserts but are actually a complete culinary art form that encompasses both sweet and savory fillings. He also stresses that the crust is the foundation of any pie and should not be overlooked.

To make the crust, Alton first shows viewers how to measure flour accurately, explaining that the amount of flour used can greatly affect the crust's texture. He then goes on to introduce viewers to various types of fats, including butter, shortening, and lard, and explains how each can impact the crust's flavor and texture. Alton also demonstrates how to properly incorporate the fat into the flour mixture to create a flaky crust.

To add flavor to the crust, Alton introduces viewers to a secret ingredient: vodka. He explains that adding a small amount of vodka to the crust recipe can help prevent gluten formation, resulting in a more tender, flaky crust.

After demonstrating how to make the crust, Alton moves on to fillings. He demonstrates how to make the classic apple pie filling, using a combination of Granny Smith and Braeburn apples, along with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Alton also shows viewers how to make a savory chicken pot pie filling, which includes cooked chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce.

To ensure that the fillings cook evenly and the crust remains crisp, Alton stresses the importance of pre-baking the crust before adding the filling. He demonstrates how to use pie weights to prevent the crust from puffing up during baking and explains how to avoid common crust problems, such as soggy bottoms and undercooked centers.

Throughout the episode, Alton shares various tips and tricks for making the perfect pie, from how to properly crimp the edges of the crust to how to create decorative crust designs. He also shares his favorite pie-making tools, including a rolling pin, pastry blender, and bench scraper.

The episode concludes with Alton putting his pie-making skills to the test by creating a pie from scratch using ingredients selected by a viewer. Viewers get to see Alton put all of the techniques he taught earlier in the episode to use as he creates a unique and delicious pie.

Overall, the I Pie episode of Good Eats is a must-watch for anyone looking to up their pie-making game. Alton Brown's comprehensive approach to the topic provides viewers with a solid foundation for creating mouth-watering pies, from the perfect crust to the delicious fillings. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this episode of Good Eats is sure to inspire you to take your pie-making skills to the next level.