Ep 5. Pie

In the fifth episode of season 3 of Throwdown with Bobby Flay, the renowned celebrity chef takes on the ultimate challenge of perfecting the classic American dessert: pie. Flay travels across the country in search of the best pie makers, hoping to learn their secrets and ultimately beat them at their own game.

The episode begins with Flay heading to Georgia to meet the first pie maker on his list, Mary O'Neill. O'Neill is the owner of the Pie Folks bakery, which has gained a reputation for its delicious Southern-style pies. Flay challenges O'Neill to a throwdown, and the stage is set for a classic showdown between the seasoned expert and the famous chef.

After tasting the pies made by O'Neill, Flay gets to work in designing his own recipe. He decides to create a peach and bourbon pie, inspired by the flavors of the South. Flay's pie is a departure from his usual style, as he typically prefers savory dishes to sweet ones. However, he is determined to prove that he has what it takes to take down O'Neill.

After several hours in the kitchen, Flay presents his pie to O'Neill for a taste test. The judges are blown away by the flavors and textures of Flay's creation, and they declare him the winner of the throwdown. Flay is thrilled with the victory, knowing that he has learned from O'Neill's expertise to create an exceptional dessert.

Next, Flay travels to California to challenge the next pie maker on his list, Andrea Crawford of the Panzano restaurant. Crawford is known for her unique pie recipes, which feature bold and unexpected flavors. Flay is excited to see what she has in store for him.

Once again, Flay samples Crawford's pies and takes notes on her techniques. He decides to make a blueberry and basil pie, a combination that he believes will surprise and delight the judges. Flay works tirelessly in the kitchen to perfect his recipe, making tweaks and adjustments until he is satisfied with the final result.

When it's time for the taste test, Flay is nervous but determined. The judges taste both Crawford's pie and Flay's pie, and they are impressed by both. However, they ultimately declare Flay the winner of the throwdown, citing his innovative flavors and beautiful presentation.

The final challenge of the episode takes place in New York, where Flay challenges the pie maker at the Blue Hill restaurant, Dan Barber. Barber is known for his farm-to-table approach to cooking, and Flay is eager to see how he translates this philosophy into his pies.

Flay samples Barber's pies and takes note of his unique ingredients and techniques. He decides to make a strawberry and rhubarb pie, using fresh ingredients from his own farm. Flay puts his heart and soul into the creation of this pie, determined to make it his best yet.

The judges taste both pies and are blown away by Flay's creation. They declare him the winner of the throwdown, praising his use of fresh ingredients and the perfect balance of flavors in his pie.

Throughout the episode, Flay demonstrates his creativity, determination, and passion for cooking as he takes on the throwdown challenge. He learns from each pie maker he encounters, incorporating their techniques and advice into his own recipes. Ultimately, Flay proves that he has what it takes to take on any challenge, and emerge victorious.