America's Test Kitchen Season 13 Episode 19 Rethinking Seafood Classics
- TV-NR
- May 11, 2013
- 24 min
In season 13, episode 19 of America's Test Kitchen, titled "Rethinking Seafood Classics," the show's expert chefs take on the challenge of re-imagining some of the most iconic seafood dishes in American cuisine. Guided by their mission to create foolproof recipes that anyone can replicate at home, the team is determined to elevate these classics with innovative techniques and unexpected twists.
The episode kicks off with a tutorial on making the perfect crab cakes. The chefs discuss the pitfalls of using too much filler and explain how to get a crispy exterior without overcooking the delicate crab meat. With a few simple tips and tricks, they create a batch of mouth-watering crab cakes that are sure to impress even the most discerning seafood lover.
Next, the show turns its attention to a perennial seafood favorite: clam chowder. Recognizing that this dish can often be heavy and overly rich, the chefs set out to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor. They experiment with different types of clams, incorporate fresh herbs and vegetables, and ultimately develop a recipe that is both satisfying and surprisingly healthy.
Moving on to another seafood staple, the team tackles fish and chips. While this dish is beloved across the United Kingdom and United States alike, it can often be greasy and heavy. To remedy this issue, the chefs experiment with different types of fish, batter ingredients, and cooking methods. Ultimately, they come up with a recipe that yields perfectly crispy, fluffy fish and chips every time.
The show then takes a slight detour from traditional seafood dishes with a segment on grilled oysters. Demonstrating that this delicacy is not just for raw bars and fancy restaurants, the chefs offer a tutorial on how to grill oysters at home. From choosing the right type of oysters to shucking and grilling them, they cover every step of the process and offer some creative topping ideas to take these grilled beauties to the next level.
Finally, the episode concludes with a recipe for classic shrimp scampi. The chefs discuss the pros and cons of using fresh vs. frozen shrimp and offer tips on how to get the perfect garlic butter sauce without overcooking the shrimp. With a few simple ingredients and some expert guidance, viewers can learn how to recreate this timeless dish at home and impress their dinner guests.
Throughout the episode, the America's Test Kitchen team demonstrates their trademark attention to detail and commitment to creating dishes that are both accessible and delicious. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this episode offers something for everyone. So tune in, get inspired, and get cooking!