Ep 19. Don't Be Chicken of Dumplings

In this episode of Good Eats, titled "Don't Be Chicken of Dumplings," host Alton Brown dives deep into the world of dumplings. He begins by discussing the many different types of dumplings, from the savory pierogies of Eastern Europe to the sweet tang-yuan of China. Brown explains that, despite their differences, all dumplings share a basic structure: a wrapper filled with something delicious.

Brown then turns his attention to one of the most popular types of dumpling: the chicken and dumpling. He starts by demonstrating how to properly roast a whole chicken, taking care to season it perfectly and achieve a mouth-watering golden brown color. Once the chicken is done, Brown breaks it down and uses the leftover bones to make a rich, flavorful stock.

Next come the dumplings themselves. Brown points out that while many people are afraid to attempt dumplings from scratch, they're actually quite simple to make. His recipe calls for a mixture of flour, baking powder, salt, and butter that's rolled out and cut into small squares. The dumplings are then dropped into simmering chicken stock and cooked until they're light and fluffy.

Of course, no chicken and dumpling dish is complete without vegetables. Brown shows viewers how to transform humble carrots, celery, and onions into a fragrant and delicious mirepoix that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and pillowy dumplings. He also offers up some variations on the classic recipe, including a twist that features kale and pancetta instead of traditional dumplings.

Throughout the episode, Brown offers tips and tricks for getting the most out of your dumplings, including how to keep them from sticking together and the secret to achieving a perfectly smooth dough. He even takes a deep dive into the science behind why dumplings behave the way they do, with plenty of entertaining visuals to help illustrate his points.

Towards the end of the episode, Brown serves up a delicious chicken and dumpling dinner to a group of friends, who are all blown away by how delicious and satisfying the dish is. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, "Don't Be Chicken of Dumplings" is sure to teach you something new and inspiring about this beloved comfort food.