Ep 2. The Joy of Cooking Lebanon

Christopher Kimball's Milk Street Season 2, Episode 3, titled "The Joy of Cooking Lebanon," takes viewers on a culinary journey through Lebanese cuisine. The episode begins with Christopher Kimball introducing the episode as a celebration of Lebanese food. He explains that Lebanese cuisine has a long history and has been influenced by a variety of cultures, resulting in a unique and flavorful fusion of flavors and ingredients.

The first recipe is for a traditional Lebanese dish called Mujadara, a hearty dish made with lentils, rice, and caramelized onions. Milk Street's version of the recipe includes a slightly different method for caramelizing the onions, resulting in a more even and deeper caramelization. Christopher also adds a touch of cumin to the dish, adding even more flavor to the already delicious recipe. He explains that Mujadara is a staple in Lebanese cooking and is often served as a main course or as a side dish.

Next up is a recipe for Tabbouleh, a verdant salad made with parsley, mint, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and onions. Christopher explains that Tabbouleh is a refreshing and healthy dish that is perfect for summer. Milk Street's version of the recipe features a higher ratio of herbs to bulgur wheat, resulting in a more herb-forward flavor. Christopher also demonstrates a technique for squeezing excess moisture from the tomatoes, which can result in a less watery salad.

The third recipe is for a classic Lebanese sweet treat called Ma'amoul. Ma'amoul is a filled cookie made with semolina flour, butter, and dates or pistachios. Christopher explains that Ma'amoul is traditionally made by hand using wooden molds, but Milk Street has developed a recipe that produces similar results using a food processor. He demonstrates how to shape the dough and fill it with date paste, and then bakes them until golden brown. The result is a delicious and tender cookie with a sweet and nutty filling.

Finally, Christopher prepares a recipe for Lamb Kofta, a savory dish made with ground lamb and spices. Milk Street's version of the recipe includes a mix of spices, including cumin, coriander, and allspice, which add depth and complexity to the dish. Christopher explains that Lamb Kofta is a popular dish in Lebanese cuisine and is often served with pita bread, hummus, and other mezze.

Throughout the episode, Christopher highlights the unique flavors and techniques used in Lebanese cuisine. He also provides tips and tricks for preparing each dish, such as how to properly caramelize onions or how to prevent a watery Tabbouleh salad. The episode is both informative and entertaining, providing viewers with an appreciation for Lebanese food and culture.

Overall, Christopher Kimball's Milk Street Season 2, Episode 3, "The Joy of Cooking Lebanon," is a celebration of Lebanese cuisine. The episode is filled with delicious and unique recipes that showcase the rich flavors and techniques used in Lebanese cooking. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this episode is sure to inspire you to try out some new and exciting dishes in your kitchen.