Ep 0. Romancing the Bird

Good Eats is an Emmy award-winning cooking show created and hosted by the multi-talented Alton Brown. The show focuses on the science of cooking and explores cooking methods and techniques to help viewers become better home cooks. In the first episode of the series, season 1 episode 0, titled Romancing the Bird, Alton Brown focuses on the centerpiece of many Thanksgiving dinners - the turkey.

Alton Brown starts off by explaining how and why the turkey has become synonymous with Thanksgiving. He then moves on to explain that cooking the perfect turkey is not an easy task and requires a lot of skill and knowledge. He also mentions that most people end up with dry and overcooked turkey simply because they do not know how to properly cook it.

To begin with, Alton Brown explains the anatomy of a turkey and the different cuts that are available. He then proceeds to show the viewers how to brine the turkey, which he says is the most important step in cooking a perfect bird. He demonstrates how to make a simple brine using water, salt, sugar, and spices. Brining the turkey not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the meat moist and tender.

After the turkey has been brined, Alton Brown moves on to stuffing and trussing the bird. He explains how stuffing the bird can be a tricky task as it can lead to uneven cooking and bacterial growth. Alton Brown recommends making the stuffing separately and baking it in a casserole dish. He then shows how to truss the bird to ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation.

Once the turkey has been stuffed and trussed, Alton Brown moves on to roasting. He explains that roasting is a slow, low-temperature cooking method that allows the turkey to cook evenly while retaining its moisture and flavor. He also suggests using a roasting pan with a rack to elevate the bird and allow air to circulate around it. Alton Brown demonstrates how to prepare the roasting pan and then places the turkey in the oven.

While the turkey is roasting, Alton Brown takes some time to whip up a batch of gravy. He explains that the drippings from the turkey are the key ingredient in making a delicious gravy. He shows how to make a roux, a mixture of flour and fat, which is the base for the gravy. He then adds the turkey drippings and other flavorings to create a smooth and flavorful gravy.

As the turkey continues to roast, Alton Brown explains how to make a flavorful herb butter. He shows how to mix softened butter with herbs and spices such as parsley, sage, thyme, and garlic. This herb butter can be used to baste the turkey while it is roasting, adding even more flavor to the bird.

After several hours of roasting, the turkey is finally ready to be taken out of the oven. Alton Brown shows how to check the temperature of the bird using a meat thermometer and explains that the turkey needs to rest for at least 15-20 minutes before carving. He also explains that carving the turkey is a skill that can take some practice but is essential for a beautiful presentation.

In the final moments of the show, Alton Brown presents the perfectly cooked and beautifully presented turkey to a gathering of family and friends. He takes some time to reflect on the importance of food and how it brings people together. He then invites everyone to gather around the table for a delicious Thanksgiving feast.

In conclusion, Romancing the Bird is an informative and entertaining episode that teaches viewers everything they need to know about cooking the perfect Thanksgiving turkey. Alton Brown's scientific approach to cooking and his witty personality make the show both educational and enjoyable to watch. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this episode is sure to provide you with valuable insights and tips on cooking the perfect bird.