Ep 4. The French Chef: Veal Prince Orloff

The French Chef with Julia Child season 4 episode 4, titled "Veal Prince Orloff," follows Julia Child as she demonstrates how to prepare one of the most elegant and classic dishes of French cuisine. The titular dish, Veal Prince Orloff, is a delicious, sumptuous, and complex entrée that is sure to impress any dinner guest.

Throughout the episode, Julia takes viewers through each step of the recipe, providing insight into the various techniques and ingredients involved. She begins by explaining the history of the dish, which was first created for Prince Orloff of Russia by the head chef of the French emperor Napoleon III. The dish quickly gained popularity among the wealthy and elite, and it remains a staple of French culinary tradition to this day.

At the heart of Veal Prince Orloff is a combination of tender veal, rich mushroom duxelles, and delicate truffles, all wrapped in a layer of thinly sliced ham and smothered in a creamy béchamel sauce. Julia demonstrates how to prepare each component of the dish with precision and care, carefully layering the ingredients in a way that maximizes their flavors and textures.

As she works, Julia shares a wealth of cooking tips and techniques, such as how to properly slice and arrange the ingredients for optimal cooking, how to create a rich and flavorful mushroom duxelles, and how to make a smooth and luscious béchamel sauce that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

One of the highlights of the episode is watching Julia construct the veal and mushroom filling. She carefully layers the ingredients in a way that creates a beautiful and intricate pattern, showcasing not only her impressive cooking skills but also the true artistry of French cuisine. She also takes care to ensure that each layer is seasoned perfectly, adding just the right amount of salt and other seasonings to bring out the full range of flavors in the dish.

Throughout the episode, Julia's warmth, humor, and enthusiasm for cooking shine through. She delights in the process of making Veal Prince Orloff, carefully nurturing each ingredient and taking joy in the final product. Her love for French cuisine and her desire to share that love with viewers is contagious, making this episode a true pleasure to watch.

As the episode draws to a close, Julia presents the finished Veal Prince Orloff, inviting viewers to share in the beauty and elegance of this classic French dish. The result is a dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning, a testament to the creativity and artistry of French culinary tradition.

Overall, The French Chef with Julia Child season 4 episode 4 is a masterclass in classic French cooking, showcasing the intricate techniques and delicate flavors that make this cuisine so special. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a total novice in the kitchen, this episode is sure to inspire you to try your hand at preparing French cuisine at home. With Julia's guidance and expertise, Veal Prince Orloff is a dish that anyone can make and enjoy, a true testament to the accessibility and versatility of French cooking.