Ep 9. Learn to Craft Fresh Mozzarella By Hand with Chef Justin Bazdarich

Learn to Craft Fresh Mozzarella By Hand with Chef Justin Bazdarich is the ninth episode of the third season of Let's Get Fat, a cooking show that explores the world of indulgent, calorie-laden foods. In this episode, host Samantha Johnson meets with Chef Justin Bazdarich, co-owner of Brooklyn's Oxalis restaurant, to learn the art and science of crafting fresh mozzarella cheese by hand.

The episode begins with Samantha meeting Chef Justin at his restaurant's cheese cave, where he explains the process of making fresh mozzarella from scratch. Chef Justin emphasizes the importance of using high-quality ingredients, from the milk and rennet to the salt and herbs used to season the cheese.

Next, Chef Justin guides Samantha through the hands-on process of making mozzarella. Samantha assists in heating the milk, adding the rennet to coagulate the milk, and cutting the curds into small pieces. They then knead the curds, stretching and shaping them into balls of fresh mozzarella.

Throughout the episode, Chef Justin shares his tips and tricks for making perfect mozzarella, including the optimal temperature and texture of the curds. He also explains how to adjust the recipe based on the type of milk used, as well as the desired texture and flavor profile of the cheese.

As they work, Chef Justin and Samantha discuss the versatility of fresh mozzarella in cooking, from classic caprese salads to more inventive dishes like mozzarella-stuffed arancini and crispy fried mozzarella sticks. Chef Justin also shares some of his favorite flavor combinations for mozzarella, such as adding fresh basil and drizzling with balsamic glaze.

Once they have finished crafting the mozzarella, Chef Justin and Samantha sit down to enjoy their fresh creation. They sample the cheese alongside a selection of charcuterie and olives, and marvel at the rich, creamy texture and delicate flavor of the fresh mozzarella.

Learn to Craft Fresh Mozzarella By Hand with Chef Justin Bazdarich is a fun and informative episode that highlights the skill and artistry involved in crafting fresh mozzarella cheese. Chef Justin's expertise and passion for high-quality ingredients shines through, and Samantha's enthusiasm and eagerness to learn make for an engaging and enjoyable viewing experience. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a cheese novice, this episode is sure to inspire you to try your hand at making fresh mozzarella from scratch.