Ep 5. Side Dishes

Martha Stewart's Cooking School season 5 episode 5 explores the world of side dishes. Martha demonstrates how to prepare a variety of accompanying dishes that will elevate any meal, from classics like macaroni and cheese and roasted vegetables to more exotic options like crispy rice croquettes and Turkish-style stuffed eggplant. Viewers will learn how to balance flavors and textures to create the perfect side dish for any occasion.

The episode kicks off with Martha's take on macaroni and cheese, a classic American side dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or as a potluck contribution. She shares her tips for making a creamy and flavorful cheese sauce and how to cook the pasta just right. Martha also shows how to jazz up the dish with add-ins like bacon, breadcrumbs, and herbs.

Next up is roasted vegetable medley, a side dish that is simple yet elegant, and pairs well with any main course. Martha demonstrates how to choose the right vegetables, how to prepare them for roasting, and how to get that perfect caramelization. She also shares her recipe for a tangy balsamic glaze that takes the dish to the next level.

Martha then takes viewers on a culinary journey to Turkey with her recipe for stuffed eggplant. This indulgent and flavorful dish is made with eggplant that has been stuffed with a mixture of ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and spices. She shows how to prepare the eggplant to avoid bitterness and how to cook the filling to perfection. The end result is a dish that is hearty, comforting, and bursting with flavor.

If you're looking for a side dish that is unexpected and fun, Martha's crispy rice croquettes are just the thing. This dish is made by mixing cooked rice with cheese, herbs, and spices, then forming it into small balls and frying until golden and crispy. Martha also shares her trick for creating the perfect dredge that yields maximum crunch. These croquettes are sure to be a hit at any party or gathering.

Finally, Martha demonstrates how to make a simple yet elegant dish of steamed asparagus with hollandaise sauce. She shows how to choose the freshest asparagus and how to steam it to the perfect tenderness. Then, she walks viewers through the process of making a classic hollandaise sauce that complements the asparagus beautifully.

Throughout the episode, Martha shares her wealth of culinary knowledge and practical tips for creating side dishes that are both delicious and beautiful. Whether you're looking to spice up a weeknight dinner or impress guests at a dinner party, the recipes and techniques in this episode are sure to inspire.