Ep 13. Cooking with Grains

In Martha Stewart's Cooking School season 5 episode 13, titled "Cooking with Grains," viewers will learn how to use an array of whole grains in their cooking. Martha kicks off the episode by explaining why cooking with whole grains is both healthy and flavorful, and she encourages viewers to experiment with new types of grains in their cooking.

The first recipe Martha demonstrates is a comforting bowl of barley risotto, which she serves with sautéed mushrooms and fresh herbs. Viewers will learn how to cook barley in the same way that they would Arborio rice for a traditional risotto, but with the added bonus of extra fiber and nutrients. Martha also explains how to properly sauté mushrooms by letting them cook undisturbed until they release their moisture and brown nicely.

Next up is a recipe for farro salad with roasted vegetables and feta cheese. Martha shows viewers how to roast vegetables such as squash, eggplant, and bell peppers until they are tender and caramelized, then combine them with cooked farro and crumbled feta cheese for a satisfying and healthy salad. She also explains how to cook farro so that it is tender but still has a satisfying chew.

For a heartier entree, Martha prepares a classic beef and barley soup. Viewers will learn how to brown beef chuck until it is deeply caramelized, then simmer it with vegetables and barley until everything is tender and flavorful. Martha also shares tips for making a rich beef broth from scratch, instead of relying on store-bought broth which can be high in sodium.

The final recipe in the episode is one for quinoa salad with roasted garlic and lemon dressing. Martha talks about the high protein content of quinoa, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans. She shows viewers how to roast garlic until it is golden and fragrant, then use it in a tangy lemon dressing to dress a salad of cooked quinoa, sliced scallions, and fresh herbs.

Throughout the episode, Martha emphasizes the versatility of whole grains and encourages viewers to experiment with different types of grains in their cooking. She also shares tips for cooking grains properly, such as soaking them beforehand to reduce cooking time, and seasoning them well to bring out their natural flavors. Overall, this episode of Martha Stewart's Cooking School is perfect for anyone looking to incorporate more whole grains into their daily diet.