Ep 15. Spice It Up

In episode 15 of season 31 of The Pioneer Woman, entitled "Spice It Up," viewers are treated to a flavor-packed adventure in the kitchen with host, Ree Drummond. As the title suggests, this episode is all about adding some pizzazz to classic dishes. Ree shares her favorite recipes to give any meal a bit of a kick, using a variety of spices, herbs, and other ingredients to add some complexity and flavor to otherwise simple dishes.

The episode starts with Ree showing viewers how to make a hearty meat and potato hash that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Ree takes viewers through the ingredients, which include bell peppers, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices such as chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. The result is a savory and delicious dish that's sure to please even the most discerning taste buds.

Next up, Ree goes all-out with her chicken enchiladas, infusing the dish with lots of spicy flavors to give it a real kick. Using diced jalapeños, chipotle chilis in adobo sauce, and a few other spices, Ree creates a homemade enchilada sauce that's bursting with heat and flavor. She then packs the chicken enchiladas full of the spicy sauce, adding a bit of cotija cheese for extra flavor and texture.

For dessert, Ree makes a sophisticated yet simple fruit salad infused with a spicy cinnamon and honey dressing. Using a variety of fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and mango, along with some chopped mint and basil, Ree creates a bright and vibrant dish that's perfect for summer gatherings. The spicy dressing, which includes a dash of cayenne pepper, adds some unexpected heat to the dish, which pairs perfectly with the sweet fruit.

Throughout the episode, Ree also shares plenty of tips and tricks for using spices and herbs in new and creative ways. Viewers will learn about the benefits of using a mortar and pestle to grind their own spices, how to toast spices to bring out their flavor, and how to make homemade spice blends for a variety of different dishes. Ree's infectious enthusiasm and easy-to-follow instructions make it easy for anyone to add some zest and pizzazz to their favorite meals.

The episode wraps up with Ree sharing some of her favorite ways to use leftover spice blends, including sprinkling them on popcorn, using them as a rub for grilled meats, or even mixing them into a batch of homemade salsa. With "Spice It Up," viewers will be inspired to get creative in the kitchen and experiment with new flavors and ingredients, making mealtime a little more exciting and adventurous. Overall, this episode of The Pioneer Woman is a must-watch for anyone looking to add a bit of spice to their cooking repertoire.