Ep 11. Pork

In the 11th episode of the first season of Julia & Jacques Cooking at Home, titled "Pork," the dynamic duo tackles the versatile and beloved meat. Julia Child and Jacques Pépin begin with Pork Loin Braised in Milk, a classic French dish that highlights the tenderness of pork. Together, they sear the pork loin in a Dutch oven before adding in a mixture of milk, salt, and pepper. As the meat cooks, they occasionally baste it with the milk mixture, allowing the flavors to meld together. The result is a succulent and delicious main course that can be served with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

Up next, Julia and Jacques prepare a feast fit for a crowd with Grilled Pork Chops with Apple Chutney. The apple chutney adds a hint of sweetness to the savory flavors of the pork chops, making this dish a perfect balance of flavors. Jacques shows Julia the proper way to grill pork chops so that they come out juicy and tender, and Julia prepares the chutney with apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Their finished product is a mouth-watering dish that is perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy fall meal.

In the third dish of the episode, Julia shows Jacques how to make Pork and Beans, a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a chilly day. Together, they make a flavorful broth with chicken stock, tomatoes, onions, and garlic. They then add in pinto beans, which give the dish a rich and earthy flavor. Finally, they add in the pork and let all the flavors meld together. Jacques notes that this dish is even better the next day, so it's a perfect dish to make in advance and enjoy for leftovers.

For the final dish of the episode, Julia and Jacques make Pork Tenderloin with Oregano and Orange. This dish is a wonderful example of how fresh herbs and citrus can enhance the natural flavors of meat. The tenderloin is first butterfly cut and then pounded into a thin piece. They then add in a mixture of oregano, garlic, orange zest, and olive oil, before grilling the tenderloin to perfection. The finished dish is a beautiful combination of flavors that is both light and satisfying.

Throughout the episode, Julia and Jacques bring their unique personalities to the kitchen. Julia's enthusiasm and joy for cooking is contagious, while Jacques' calm demeanor and attention to detail keep everything running smoothly. They work together seamlessly, each bringing their own expertise to the table.

Overall, "Pork" is an episode that celebrates the versatility and deliciousness of pork. With four different dishes that highlight different cuts and different cooking techniques, this episode is a masterclass in pork cookery. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, there's something to learn and enjoy in this episode of Julia & Jacques Cooking at Home.