Ep 9. Cultured Comfort

In season 7, episode 9 of Lidia's Kitchen, titled Cultured Comfort, viewers are treated to an exploration of the delicious and diverse world of cultured dairy products. Host Lidia Bastianich teaches viewers about the tradition and process of making various cultured milk and yogurt products including kefir, sour cream, and buttermilk. Through her recipes, viewers are shown how to incorporate these cultured dairy products into creative and comforting dishes that will take their cooking to the next level.

The episode begins with Lidia explaining how around the world, cultured dairy is used in such a wide variety of recipes, from soups and stews to baking and drinks. The first recipe Lidia prepares is for a refreshing kefir lemonade, a unique twist on a classic summer beverage. She then moves on to making her own sour cream, explaining the fermentation process and how the addition of certain bacteria can be beneficial for gut health.

Next, Lidia shows how these cultured dairy products can take traditional recipes to a new level, like her creamy and tangy beet greens in buttermilk sauce. The dish exemplifies how a simple addition of buttermilk can elevate the flavors of a traditional dish, making it something entirely new and exciting. From there, Lidia makes her own crème fraîche and uses it in a recipe for ricotta cheesecake with peaches. The tangy crème fraîche adds depth and balance to the sweet and summery dessert.

Throughout the episode, Lidia shares her own stories of growing up with these dairy products and how her Italian heritage has inspired her love of food. She also shares tips for her viewers about how to source good quality dairy products and how to expertly care for them so they can last longer.

One of the highlights of the episode is a visit to a local farm where Lidia meets with farmers who use traditional methods for making dairy products like yogurt and cheese. The farmers explain the painstaking and intricate process of how their products are made, providing viewers with a unique glimpse into the rich history and tradition of making cultured dairy.

In the final recipe, Lidia takes viewers on a trip to the Mediterranean with a recipe for spiced lamb chops with tzatziki. The creamy, tangy yogurt sauce provides a delicious and cooling complement to the spices of the lamb, making for a perfectly balanced and satisfying meal.

Overall, season 7, episode 9 of Lidia's Kitchen is a celebration of the versatility and comfort that can be found in cultured dairy products. Lidia's enthusiasm and knowledge are infectious, and viewers will undoubtedly come away from this episode feeling inspired to try something new in their own kitchens.