Ep 130. My Big, Fat Family Favorites

In season 5, episode 130 of The Chew, entitled "My Big, Fat Family Favorites," the co-hosts explore their personal family favorite recipes and share them with viewers. Each co-host highlights one dish that has been a staple in their family for generations. They take turns presenting their creations and explaining the sentimental value that each recipe holds.

Michael Symon uses his Greek heritage as inspiration for his dish, preparing a slow-cooked lamb dish with traditional sides of tzatziki and rice. He notes that this meal is often reserved for special occasions in his family and has been passed down for generations.

Mario Batali turns to his Italian roots and shares his family's recipe for spaghetti and meatballs. He discusses how his grandmother used to make this meal for him and his siblings every Sunday after church. He also demonstrates how to make the perfect meatball and provides tips for a delicious tomato sauce.

Carla Hall prepares her family's favorite comfort food, fried chicken and macaroni and cheese. She walks viewers through her secret to achieving the perfect crispy coating on the chicken and creamy mac and cheese. She notes that this meal always brings her family together and is a crowd-pleaser.

Clinton Kelly takes a more modern approach with his family's favorite dish, a quinoa salad with roasted vegetables. He explains how his family has become more health-conscious over the years and this dish is a reflection of that shift. He also shares tips on how to prep and roast vegetables for optimal flavor and texture.

Daphne Oz rounds out the episode with her family's recipe for pumpkin bread. She discusses how this dessert was always a staple in her household during the fall and winter months and provides a healthier alternative to the traditional recipe. She substitutes whole wheat flour and uses applesauce and Greek yogurt instead of butter and oil.

The co-hosts also take questions from viewers, answering inquiries on cooking techniques and ingredient substitutions. They also provide tips on how to make these recipes your own and incorporate personal touches. Throughout the episode, the co-hosts emphasize the importance of food in bringing families together and the role that cooking and sharing meals plays in creating memories and traditions.