Ep 5. A Little Spice with a Hint of Beer

Lidia's Kitchen is a cooking show on PBS presented by Lidia Bastianich. In season 2 episode 5 titled 'A Little Spice with a Hint of Beer,' Lidia prepares exciting dishes infused with bold flavors and savory spices, showcasing the versatility of beer as an ingredient in cooking and pairing with food.

In the first segment, Lidia demonstrates how to make a refreshing citrus salad with grapefruit, orange, and honey dressing. She adds a sprinkle of spicy cayenne pepper and finishes it with a splash of light beer, which adds a unique tangy taste to the salad. Lidia discusses the different types of beer and suggests pairing lighter beers with light summer dishes like salads and heavier beers with richer entrees.

Next, Lidia whips up an aromatic lamb stew cooked with garlic, onions, and lots of ginger. She marinates the lamb in dark beer for several hours, which helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with rich flavors. Lidia explains the science behind cooking with beer, where the sugars and yeast in the beer help to caramelize and brown the meat, giving it a rich and flavorful taste.

In the third segment, Lidia prepares a classic Italian dish of penne alla vodka with a twist. She adds bacon and mushrooms to the sauce, giving it a smoky and earthy flavor. She also spikes the sauce with a splash of beer and chili flakes for a spicy kick. Lidia shows how to cook the penne to the perfect al dente texture and finishes the dish with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

Finally, Lidia whips up a sweet and spicy dessert of beer-glazed pears with ginger and cinnamon. She poaches the pears in a mixture of dark beer, sugar, and spices until they are tender and infused with the flavors. Lidia then reduces the reserved poaching liquid to a thick and sticky glaze and drizzles it over the pears. She serves them with a dollop of whipped cream and chopped nuts for a decadent dessert.

Throughout the episode, Lidia shares tips and techniques for cooking with beer, including selecting the right types of beer for different dishes, how to incorporate beer into sauces and marinades, and how to use beer as a flavoring agent in desserts. She also discusses the cultural significance of beer in different regions and showcases its versatility as an ingredient in cooking.

Overall, 'A Little Spice with a Hint of Beer' is a fun and informative episode of Lidia's Kitchen that showcases the bold and versatile flavors of beer in cooking. Lidia's passion for cooking and her easy-to-follow instructions make it a delightful show to watch for both food lovers and beer enthusiasts alike.