Ep 16. Potatoes Gonna Potate

Struggle Meals is a cooking show that focuses on making delicious and fulfilling meals on a budget. In season 1 episode 16 titled "Potatoes Gonna Potate," host Frankie Celenza demonstrates how to turn a simple ingredient like potatoes into a variety of creative and tasty dishes.

The episode starts with Frankie introducing the versatility of potatoes as a staple ingredient that can be used in different ways to make satisfying meals. He then proceeds to make the first recipe, which is a potato gnocchi with roasted tomatoes and parmesan cheese. Frankie takes the viewers through every step of making the gnocchi from potato dough to shaping and cooking the pasta pillows. He also shares tips on how to get the perfect texture and flavor for the dish.

Next, Frankie prepares a potato and leek soup that is both hearty and savory. He starts by sautéing the leeks and garlic in butter and then adds diced potatoes, chicken stock, and cream. He lets the soup simmer until the potatoes are soft and tender. Finally, he blends the soup until it becomes smooth and creamy.

For the third recipe, Frankie makes a potato and bacon hash with eggs. He starts by crisping up diced potatoes in a skillet with some bacon and onions. He then adds some scrambled eggs to the mixture and lets them cook until they are nicely set. Frankie serves the dish with some parsley and hot sauce for added flavor.

The fourth recipe is a crispy potato pancake that can be served as a side dish or a light snack. Frankie grates the potatoes and mixes them with eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. He then pan-fries the mixture until it becomes golden brown and crispy on both sides. Frankie serves the potato pancake with some sour cream and chives.

Finally, Frankie makes a potato and chorizo stew with a touch of smokiness and spice. He starts by browning diced chorizo in a pot and then adds some onions, garlic, and diced potatoes. He also throws in some smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano for flavor. To finish the dish, Frankie pours in some chicken stock and lets it simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Throughout the episode, Frankie offers useful tips and tricks on using potatoes in cooking. He emphasizes the importance of choosing the right kind of potato for a recipe and how to store them properly. He also shares some creative ideas on how to repurpose leftover potatoes, such as making home fries or breakfast burritos.

In conclusion, Struggle Meals season 1 episode 16, "Potatoes Gonna Potate," is an informative and entertaining cooking show that showcases the versatility and affordability of potatoes as a staple ingredient in cooking. Frankie Celenza presents five different recipes that are easy to make and full of flavor, proving that cooking on a budget can also be delicious and satisfying.