Ep 3. Kneading Dough

Lidia's Kitchen season 8 episode 3, Kneading Dough, sees the beloved Italian chef Lidia Bastianich whipping up a variety of mouth-watering recipes that all involve kneading dough. Throughout the episode, Lidia takes viewers on a journey through the traditional Italian techniques used for making homemade pasta and bread, showcasing her tried-and-tested tips and tricks for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

The episode begins with Lidia demonstrating how to make her signature spinach and ricotta ravioli, which requires a delicate touch when kneading the dough to ensure it has the right consistency. Viewers will learn how to create the filling from scratch, using ingredients such as fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, and nutmeg. Lidia then shows how to roll out the pasta sheets and form the ravioli, before cooking them to perfection in a simple butter sauce.

From there, Lidia moves onto making a classic pizza dough, sharing her secrets for achieving the perfect yeast-based mixture that rises consistently every time. She then shows viewers how to create a simple yet delicious tomato sauce using canned whole tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. Once the sauce is ready, Lidia demonstrates her techniques for shaping the dough into a round pizza base, before adding the sauce and toppings, which can be customized to suit individual tastes.

Next, Lidia turns her attention to another Italian staple – focaccia bread. She explains how to make a basic dough using flour, salt, yeast, and olive oil, which can be flavored with a variety of herbs and spices to elevate the taste. As she works the dough, viewers will see how important it is to knead it for the right amount of time to achieve the perfect texture and rise. Lidia then shows how to top the focaccia with olive oil, rosemary, and coarse salt before baking it to crispy, golden-brown perfection.

Finally, Lidia provides a masterclass in making gnocchi, the popular Italian dumplings made from potato, egg, and flour. She talks through the steps involved in creating the perfect dough and shaping it into small pillows, before boiling them and serving them with a simple yet delicious butter and Parmesan sauce. Viewers will see how important it is to get the right consistency when kneading the dough for gnocchi, as well as how to shape the dumplings to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their shape.

Throughout the episode, Lidia shares her extensive knowledge of Italian cuisine, offering up tips and tricks that are easy to follow and replicate at home. Viewers will gain a newfound appreciation for the art of kneading dough, as Lidia proves that with a little practice and patience, anyone can cook delicious Italian dishes that are sure to impress. The episode is a must-watch for anyone who loves cooking, especially those with a passion for Italian food.