Ep 8. Soups On

In season 8 episode 8 of Good Eats, titled "Soups On," host and chef Alton Brown dives into the world of soups and stews. Brown starts the episode by discussing the importance of using the right ingredients and tools to make the perfect bowl of soup or stew. He explains how the unique flavors and textures of soups and stews come from the way they are prepared and cooked, and how slow cooking allows flavors to build and meld together.

With this in mind, Brown demonstrates how to make a classic chicken noodle soup from scratch. He starts by roasting a whole chicken to use in the soup, and then uses the chicken carcass to make a rich, flavorful broth. Brown also shares his secrets for making the perfect egg noodles to add to the soup, and discusses how different types of noodles can change the texture and flavor of the dish.

Next, Brown tackles a classic French onion soup. He shows viewers how to properly caramelize onions to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor, and then adds beef broth and red wine to create a rich, hearty soup. Brown also shares his recipe for homemade croutons to top the soup, which he makes from scratch using bread, butter, and a panini press.

In addition to these classic soups, Brown also demonstrates how to make a spicy African peanut stew. This hearty stew is filled with sweet potatoes, okra, and collard greens, and is spiced with cayenne pepper and red curry paste for a flavorful kick. Brown explains that this stew is traditionally served with rice, and shows viewers how to prepare fragrant jasmine rice to serve alongside the dish.

Throughout the episode, Brown also shares tips and tricks for storing and reheating soups and stews, and how to modify recipes to suit individual tastes and preferences. He encourages viewers to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings, and emphasizes the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results. Overall, "Soups On" is a fun and informative episode of Good Eats that is sure to inspire viewers to create their own delicious soups and stews at home.