America's Test Kitchen Season 13 Episode 2 Great American Classics

In this episode of America's Test Kitchen season 13, the theme is Great American Classics, where the hosts tackle classic dishes that define America's culinary heritage. The first dish on the menu is a classic burger, a quintessential American food. The hosts experiment with different varieties of ground beef, from regular to grass-fed, to determine the best one for a juicy and flavorful burger. They also test various toppings, from the usual suspects like lettuce and tomato to more unconventional options like caramelized onions and cheese sauce.

Next up is the all-American mac and cheese. While this dish may seem simple on the surface, the hosts take it to the next level by experimenting with different types of cheese and pasta shapes to find the perfect combination of creaminess and texture. They also test different techniques for making the perfect cheese sauce, including using a roux to thicken the sauce and adding mustard or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.

The third classic dish the hosts tackle is fried chicken, a southern favorite that has become a staple of American cuisine. They explore the best types of chicken to use, from drumsticks to thighs, and experiment with different coating options, including flour, cornmeal, and breadcrumbs. They also test different frying techniques, including deep-frying and pan-frying, to determine which method yields the crispiest and juiciest chicken.

For dessert, the hosts turn to the classic apple pie, a staple of American cuisine that dates back to colonial times. They experiment with different types of apples, from Granny Smith to McIntosh, and different crusts, including butter and lard. They also test different sweeteners, including brown sugar and maple syrup, to find the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Throughout the episode, the hosts share tips and tricks for getting the most out of each recipe, from how to achieve the perfect sear on a burger to how to avoid a soggy bottom crust on a pie. They also go behind the scenes to explain the science behind each dish, from how different types of fat affect the texture of a burger to how the acidity of apples affects the flavor of a pie.

Overall, this episode of America's Test Kitchen season 13 is a love letter to classic American cuisine, showcasing the dishes that have defined our culinary heritage for generations. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves comfort food and wants to learn how to elevate their favorite dishes to the next level.