Ep 8. Squid Pro Quo

In the eighth episode of the fifth season of Good Eats, titled "Squid Pro Quo," host Alton Brown takes viewers on a culinary journey of the squid. Alton explores the various uses and preparation methods of the squid in this educational and entertaining episode.

The episode begins with Alton introducing viewers to the world of cephalopods and explaining the unique characteristics of squid. He explains that squid are commonly used in cooking all around the world and have a history dating back to ancient times. He also touches on the nutritional benefits of squid, including high levels of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

To kick off the cooking portion of the episode, Alton demonstrates how to clean a squid, which can be a daunting task for some home cooks. He walks viewers through the process step-by-step and explains how to remove the skin, beak, and other inedible parts. He also notes that squid ink, which is often used in dishes like pasta and risotto, can be messy but adds a unique flavor to dishes.

Next, Alton moves on to the cooking methods of squid. He explains that squid can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, frying, and baking. To demonstrate this, he shares several delicious recipes that incorporate squid, such as calamari fritti, squid ink pasta, and Korean-style grilled squid.

Throughout the episode, Alton shares numerous tips on how to achieve perfectly cooked squid every time. For instance, he advises viewers on how to properly sear squid to prevent overcooking, and explains how to achieve crispy fried calamari without over-frying the delicate meat.

In addition to traditional squid dishes, Alton also explores the unconventional uses of this versatile creature. He shows viewers how to make a homemade version of calamari jerky, which can be a protein-packed snack on-the-go. He also demonstrates how to use squid as a "hidden protein" in dishes like mashed potatoes and even brownies.

To close out the episode, Alton shares some final thoughts on the squid and encourages viewers to explore this underappreciated seafood. He emphasizes the importance of trying new ingredients and techniques in the kitchen, and reminds viewers that cooking should always be fun and experimental.

Overall, "Squid Pro Quo" is a must-watch episode for anyone interested in seafood, or anyone looking to expand their culinary horizons. With Alton's expert guidance and entertaining delivery, viewers are sure to learn something new and be inspired to try their hand at cooking with squid.