Ep 10. Restaurant Secrets
- TV-G
- November 16, 2002
- 20 min
In Paula's Best Dishes season 6 episode 10 titled Restaurant Secrets, Paula Deen welcomes a special guest, Chef Gavin Kaysen, who is a James Beard Award winner and World Chef Champion. Chef Kaysen shares some of the secrets to running a successful restaurant, such as how to create a simple, yet delicious menu that will appeal to a broad range of diners.
Paula and Chef Kaysen begin by preparing a classic dish that is perfect for any restaurant - roast chicken. Chef Kaysen shares his technique for cooking the chicken to perfection, which involves brining the bird overnight to ensure that it stays moist and tender during roasting. Paula creates a delicious seasoning blend using herbs and spices from her garden to add flavor and aromatics to the chicken.
Next up, Paula and Chef Kaysen prepare a classic southern appetizer - fried green tomatoes. Chef Kaysen shares his insights on how to get the perfect crunch on the outside while keeping the tomatoes juicy on the inside. To round out the dish, Paula creates a tangy remoulade sauce that pairs perfectly with the crispy fried tomatoes.
For the main course, Paula and Chef Kaysen prepare a hearty beef tenderloin with a savory mushroom gravy. Chef Kaysen shows Paula how to properly sear the beef to create a crusty exterior and tender interior. They then create a delicious mushroom gravy using a mix of wild and cultivated mushrooms that add depth and complexity to the dish.
To accompany the beef tenderloin, Paula and Chef Kaysen prepare a simple side dish of roasted root vegetables. They toss a mix of sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips with olive oil and fresh rosemary before roasting them until they are caramelized and tender.
Finally, for dessert, Paula and Chef Kaysen create a decadent chocolate mousse that is the perfect ending to any meal. Chef Kaysen shares his secret to getting the perfect texture for the mousse, which involves folding in whipped egg whites to create a light and fluffy texture.
Throughout the episode, Paula and Chef Kaysen share their tips and tricks for running a successful restaurant, from developing a strong concept to creating a memorable dining experience for customers. With each dish they prepare, they demonstrate how a focus on quality ingredients and simple preparation can elevate any meal to new heights.
Overall, Restaurant Secrets is a must-watch episode for food lovers and aspiring restaurateurs alike. Paula and Chef Kaysen's expertise and passion for cooking shine through in each dish they prepare, and their insights into the restaurant industry provide valuable lessons for anyone looking to create a successful dining experience.