Ep 5. Crazy for Mushrooms

Lidia's Kitchen is a popular cooking show hosted by renowned Italian chef Lidia Bastianich. In season 5 episode 5, titled "Crazy for Mushrooms," Lidia shares her love for mushrooms and teaches viewers how to make delicious dishes with this versatile ingredient.

The episode begins with Lidia giving an introduction to mushrooms and their different varieties. She talks about how important it is to select fresh and high-quality mushrooms for cooking, and also shares some tips on how to clean and store them.

Next, Lidia dives into the recipes. The first dish she makes is a Mushroom Soup with Barley. She starts by sautéing some onions, celery, and carrots in olive oil, and then adds some chopped mushrooms to the mix. After the mushrooms have cooked down a bit, Lidia adds some broth and barley to the pot and lets it all simmer until everything is tender and flavorful. She finishes the soup with a drizzle of olive oil and some freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

The second recipe Lidia makes is a Wild Mushroom Risotto. She explains the basics of making risotto and shares her technique for achieving the perfect texture. She then adds a variety of mushrooms to the rice, including porcini, portobello, and shiitake. As the risotto cooks, Lidia talks about how to balance the flavors and make sure everything is seasoned just right. She finishes the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a bit of grated cheese.

The third recipe is a Mushroom and Sausage Meatloaf. Lidia starts by sautéing some onions and garlic and then adds some chopped mushrooms to the pan. She lets everything cook down until the mushrooms are tender and then mixes it with some ground sausage and breadcrumbs. She forms the mixture into a loaf and bakes it in the oven until it's golden and cooked through. Lidia serves the meatloaf with a side of steamed vegetables.

The final recipe is a Mushroom and Spinach Tart. Lidia starts by making a homemade pie crust and then fills it with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta cheese. She bakes the tart until it's golden brown and serves it with a simple side salad.

Throughout the episode, Lidia shares her tips and tricks for working with mushrooms and creating flavorful dishes. She also talks about the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients and taking the time to enjoy the process of cooking. By the end of the episode, viewers will be inspired to get in the kitchen and experiment with mushrooms in their own cooking.

In conclusion, Lidia's Kitchen season 5 episode 5, "Crazy for Mushrooms," is a must-watch for any mushroom lover or home cook looking to expand their culinary skills. Lidia's passion for cooking and her expertise in Italian cuisine make her a joy to watch, and her recipes are sure to impress. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this episode has something for everyone. So grab some mushrooms and get cooking!