Ep 5. The Magic of Piloncillo

Pati's Mexican Table is a cooking show hosted by Pati Jinich, a Mexican-American chef, cookbook author, and television personality. In the show, she explores the rich culinary heritage of Mexico, sharing recipes and stories from her own family and travels throughout the country. In season 11 episode 5, titled "The Magic of Piloncillo," Pati delves into the versatile and beloved ingredient that is often referred to as the Mexican brown sugar.

Piloncillo is a type of unrefined cane sugar that is made by boiling down sugarcane juice until it thickens and solidifies into cone-shaped blocks. It is commonly used in Mexican cuisine to sweeten dishes and drinks, imparting a rich and complex flavor that is distinct from white sugar or other sweeteners. In this episode, Pati shares her favorite recipes that showcase the magic of piloncillo, from sweet to savory dishes.

The episode starts with a trip to a local market in Tepatitlán, a town in the state of Jalisco, where Pati meets with a vendor who explains the different types of piloncillo available and how to use them in recipes. She then heads back to her kitchen to start cooking, beginning with a breakfast dish that is beloved in her family - Huevos Rancheros with Piloncillo-Roasted Tomatoes. The dish features a classic Mexican breakfast of fried eggs served on tortillas, topped with a zesty tomato sauce that is sweetened with piloncillo and cooked until caramelized, giving it a deep, rich flavor.

Next, Pati prepares a classic Mexican snack that is perfect for any time of day - Cajeta de Piloncillo. Cajeta is a type of Mexican caramel that is made by simmering milk, sugar, and vanilla until it thickens and turns golden brown. In this recipe, piloncillo is melted into the mixture, creating a caramel that is rich, creamy, and not too sweet. Pati serves the cajeta with fresh fruit and crispy tostadas, creating a simple and satisfying dessert.

For the main course, Pati prepares a dish that is a perfect example of the versatility of piloncillo - Tacos al Pastor with Piloncillo-Pineapple Salsa. Tacos al Pastor is a traditional Mexican dish that features marinated and grilled pork served on tortillas, topped with cilantro, onion, and a squeeze of lime. In this recipe, Pati uses a blend of piloncillo and other spices to create a marinade that is sweet, spicy, and tangy. She also prepares a fresh pineapple salsa that is sweetened with piloncillo, adding a perfect complement to the savory pork.

Finally, Pati ends the episode with a refreshing drink that is perfect for hot summer days - Agua de Piloncillo con Limón. Agua frescas are a type of Mexican drink that are made by blending fresh fruits or flavors with water and sugar. In this recipe, Pati uses piloncillo and fresh lime juice to create a sweet and tart drink that is perfect for sipping on a hot day.

Overall, Pati's Mexican Table season 11 episode 5 is a celebration of the magic of piloncillo, showcasing its versatility and unique flavor in a variety of dishes and drinks. From breakfast to dessert, sweet to savory, Pati demonstrates how this beloved ingredient can take any recipe to the next level.