Ep 19. The French Chef: Napoleon's Chicken
- TV-G
- January 1, 1970
- 28 min
The French Chef with Julia Child season 6 episode 19, titled "The French Chef: Napoleon's Chicken," sees Julia Child teaching her audience how to prepare a classic French dish - Chicken Marengo. Marengo was first prepared for Napoleon Bonaparte in 1800 after the Battle of Marengo. The dish has since become a staple in French cuisine, loved for its delicious combination of chicken, tomato, mushroom, garlic, and herbs.
Throughout the episode, Julia walks her audience through each step of the cooking process, starting with the preparation of the chicken. She demonstrates how to separate the legs from the rest of the bird and explains why it's important to keep the skin and bones of the chicken intact. Next, she moves on to the sauce, which is the heart of Chicken Marengo.
Julia makes sure to emphasize the importance of cooking the sauce slowly to allow all the flavors to meld together. She explains how to properly sauté vegetables and mushrooms, and adds in a sprig of thyme to infuse the sauce with a fragrant aroma.
Once the sauce is finished, Julia adds the chicken back into the pan, along with some olives and chopped tomatoes. She then covers and simmers the dish for thirty minutes, delighting in how easy and delicious the preparation of Chicken Marengo is.
Julia's passion and enthusiasm for cooking are evident throughout the episode, as she lovingly describes each ingredient and technique. The French Chef with Julia Child is an iconic cooking show that has inspired home cooks around the world to try their hand at classic French dishes. The Napoleon's Chicken episode is a prime example of Julia's talent for making French cuisine accessible and achievable.
The show is shot in black and white, with Julia's classic bob and high-pitched voice adding to the charm of the program. There are no flashy graphics or gimmicks - just a skilled and knowledgeable chef teaching her audience how to create a delicious meal in their own kitchens.
Overall, The French Chef with Julia Child season 6 episode 19 is a must-watch for anyone interested in French cuisine or cooking in general. Julia's warmth and humor, combined with her exceptional culinary expertise, make for a delightful viewing experience.