Ep 5. Broccoli and Beef

Beginning its eighteenth season on public television, Simply Ming follows classically trained chef and restaurateur Ming Tsai as he embarks on a culinary adventure that seeks to blend Eastern and Western cooking traditions. This week, Simply Ming takes its audience on a journey through some of the more classic Asian flavors with an emphasis on the dynamic duo of broccoli and beef.

In this episode, Tsai is joined by Chinese-American culinary aficionado, Ching-He Huang, as the two explore the wonder that is broccoli. The hosts examine the nutritional benefits of this popular cruciferous vegetable while pointing out some of the most delicious ways to prepare it. Meanwhile, they also share what is so great about the pairing of broccoli and beef and provide tips on how to cook it perfectly.

The episode opens with a brief history of broccoli, explaining how it became a staple in European cuisine before being introduced to the United States in the early 20th century. Tsai and Huang highlight the many benefits of eating the vegetable, including its high levels of vitamins A, C, and K, and its many disease-fighting properties.

Next, the hosts dive into the world of beef, discussing different cuts and how to cook them to your liking. They explain the magic that lies behind the pairing of beef and broccoli, noting how the beef's richness is perfectly balanced by the broccoli's slightly bitter flavor. With that magic in mind, the two then go on to brainstorm a number of exciting dish ideas that are sure to make your mouth water.

Over the course of the episode, viewers are treated to a number of delectable Asian-inspired recipes. Some of the most notable include sesame beef, broccoli beef chow mein, and a flavorful beef and broccoli stir fry that is sure to become a staple in any home cook's repertoire. Each dish is carefully explained and expertly executed by Tsai and Huang, and with each passing moment, viewers will find themselves that much more absorbed in the pair's culinary adventure.

As always on Simply Ming, the guest chefs are given ample time to share their own personal stories of how they came to love cooking. In this episode, Huang talks about her childhood memories of cooking with her grandmother in Taiwan before going on to explain some of the unique techniques and flavor combinations that she has developed over the years.

Overall, this episode of Simply Ming is a delightful exploration of the cornerstone pairing that is broccoli and beef. From start to finish, Tsai and Huang present a wide array of tantalizing dishes that are sure to please any palate. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or just looking to expand your culinary horizons, this episode of Simply Ming is one that you will not want to miss.