Ep 18. Sprung A Leek

In Good Eats season 8 episode 18, entitled "Sprung A Leek," host Alton Brown focuses on cooking with leeks, a cousin of the onion and garlic. The episode begins with Alton explaining the culinary history of leeks and why they may have been a staple in early civilization due to their hardiness and versatility. He then provides tips on how to properly select, clean, and prepare leeks for cooking.

Alton demonstrates three different recipes using leeks as the main ingredient. First up is a leek and potato soup that is both comforting and hearty. Alton provides a step-by-step recipe for making the soup, including tips for achieving the perfect consistency and how to use a blender safely. He also discusses the importance of using fresh herbs and spices to elevate the flavor of the soup.

Next, Alton cooks up a leek and cheddar quiche, which he claims is the perfect dish for brunch or a light dinner. He demonstrates the process for making a simple pastry crust and then goes through the steps for preparing the filling, including how to properly whisk the eggs for the custard. Alton also provides pro tips on how to prevent the crust from getting soggy and how to achieve the perfect texture for the custard.

Finally, Alton prepares a leek and mushroom dish that is perfect for a side dish or a light lunch. He explains how to properly cook both the leeks and the mushrooms so that they retain their flavor and texture and don't become mushy. He also discusses the importance of using a good quality olive oil and how to properly season the dish to bring out the flavors of the ingredients.

Throughout the episode, Alton provides a wealth of knowledge about cooking with leeks, as well as tips and tricks for achieving the best possible flavor and texture in each dish. He also emphasizes the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and provides suggestions for ingredient substitutions for those who may not have access to certain items.

Overall, "Sprung A Leek" is a fantastic episode for anyone looking to expand their culinary knowledge and learn more about cooking with leeks. Alton Brown's expertise and engaging personality make the episode both informative and entertaining, and viewers will come away with a newfound appreciation for this underappreciated ingredient.