Ep 19. Everything Rice

In Lidia's Kitchen season 6 episode 19, entitled "Everything Rice," beloved cooking icon Lidia Bastianich shares her expertise on how to incorporate this versatile grain into different dishes. Throughout the episode, Lidia explores the culinary potential of rice with a diverse range of recipes from around the world, highlighting the unique flavors and textures each one brings to the table.

The episode begins with Lidia giving an overview of the different types of rice and their best uses. From long-grain basmati rice to short-grain sushi rice, Lidia covers the basics before delving into her first recipe: a comforting bowl of chicken and rice soup. As she prepares the dish, Lidia explains the importance of using homemade chicken broth to infuse the soup with rich flavor and nutrition.

Next up, Lidia demonstrates how to make an Italian-style risotto with shrimp and asparagus. She emphasizes the importance of adding the liquid (in this case, a combination of chicken broth and white wine) gradually and stirring constantly to coax the starch out of the rice and create a creamy, velvety texture. Lidia also shares tips for cooking perfectly seared shrimp and tender-crisp asparagus, which add vibrant color and fresh flavor to the dish.

Moving on to more global rice dishes, Lidia prepares a Spanish-inspired seafood paella. She draws inspiration from the vibrant colors and flavors of the Mediterranean, using saffron, smoked paprika, and a range of seafood (mussels, clams, and shrimp) to create a show-stopping paella. Lidia also gives a brief history of the dish, discussing its origins as a peasant food made with whatever ingredients were on hand.

To round out the episode, Lidia prepares a sweet and spicy Thai-style fried rice with pineapple and chicken. She explains how the bold flavors of fish sauce, soy sauce, and Sriracha work together to create an umami-rich base for this fragrant and filling dish. Lidia also demonstrates the importance of cooking the rice in advance and chilling it before stir-frying to prevent clumping and achieve a crispy texture.

Throughout the episode, Lidia shares her passion for rice as a staple ingredient that can be transformed into a range of dishes, from comforting soups to exotic stir-fries. Her easy-to-follow instructions and relatable approach make this episode a great resource for home cooks looking to expand their repertoire and incorporate more rice-based dishes into their meals. So tune in to "Everything Rice" and discover the endless possibilities of this humble grain!