Ep 2. Fall's Flavorful Favorites

In season 2 episode 2 of Lidia's Kitchen, titled "Fall's Flavorful Favorites," chef and host Lidia Bastianich celebrates the flavors of fall by cooking up some of her favorite recipes using seasonal ingredients. From hearty soups to savory meats, Lidia shares her expert tips and tricks for creating delicious and comforting meals perfect for the cooler months.

In the first segment, Lidia prepares a creamy and comforting potato soup with hearty chunks of sausage and crisp, refreshing kale. She starts by sautéing garlic and onion in a large pot before adding cubed russet potatoes and chicken broth, letting everything simmer until the potatoes are tender and easily mashed. After blending the soup with an immersion blender to create a smooth and creamy texture, Lidia stirs in spicy Italian sausage and kale, finishing it off with a drizzle of olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Next, Lidia shares her recipe for a classic Italian dish: osso buco. She uses veal shanks, which she sears in a hot pan before combining them with a savory mixture of sautéed onions, garlic, and carrots. Lidia adds a can of San Marzano tomatoes and a bay leaf, then covers the pot and allows the meat to simmer for several hours until it falls off the bone. She serves the osso buco with a hearty bed of creamy polenta, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

For the final segment, Lidia demonstrates how to make a sweet and spicy glazed pork loin. She starts by seasoning a boneless pork loin with poultry seasoning, then searing it in a hot skillet to develop a nice crust. Lidia whips up a glaze using apple jelly, Dijon mustard, and a dash of cayenne pepper, which she generously brushes over the pork before roasting it in the oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Lidia serves the juicy and tender pork loin alongside a colorful medley of roasted root vegetables, garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Throughout the episode, Lidia includes helpful tips and tricks for preparing and cooking with seasonal ingredients, highlighting the flavors and textures that make fall such a delicious season for cooking. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, "Fall's Flavorful Favorites" is sure to inspire and delight with its hearty and comforting recipes perfect for the cooler months.