America's Test Kitchen Season 14 Episode 12 Let's Start with Soup

In season 14 episode 12 of America's Test Kitchen, the focus is on soup. The episode titled "Let's Start with Soup" delves into recipes for hearty and comforting soups that are perfect for winter.

The episode starts with hosts Julia Collin Davison and Bridget Lancaster demonstrating how to make a classic chicken noodle soup. They give tips on how to achieve a flavorful broth, and how to get the perfect texture for the noodles. They also suggest adding a few unconventional ingredients, such as parsnips and dill, to give the soup a unique taste.

Next, the show explores the world of lentil soup. The hosts demonstrate how to make a lentil soup that is healthy, hearty, and delicious. They recommend using French green lentils, which are smaller and firmer than regular brown lentils. The green lentils hold their shape when cooked and give the soup a nice texture. The hosts also suggest adding bacon for a smoky flavor and carrots for sweetness.

Another soup featured in the episode is broccoli cheese soup. The hosts explain how to make a creamy and rich soup without using heavy cream. They recommend using potatoes or cornstarch to thicken the soup instead. They also show how to make homemade croutons, which can be used as a topping for the soup.

The episode also includes a segment on soup garnishes. The hosts demonstrate how to make a crispy prosciutto topping for soup, which adds a delicious salty flavor. They also show how to make a crème fraîche garnish, which can be used to add a tangy taste to the soup.

In addition, the episode features a segment on soup equipment. The hosts explain the best type of pot to use when making soup, and demonstrate how to use an immersion blender to puree soup. They also give tips on how to store leftover soup, and suggest using freezer-safe containers.

The episode concludes by showcasing a hearty beef stew. The hosts demonstrate how to make a stew that is full of flavor and tender pieces of meat. They recommend using chuck roast, which is a tough cut of meat that becomes tender when cooked slowly. They also suggest adding red wine and tomato paste to enhance the flavor of the stew.

Overall, the "Let's Start with Soup" episode of America's Test Kitchen offers a variety of soup recipes that are perfect for winter. The hosts give helpful tips on how to achieve the perfect texture and flavor for each soup, as well as suggestions for interesting garnishes. The episode is a great resource for anyone looking to expand their soup repertoire.