America's Test Kitchen Season 15 Episode 25 A Meal to Celebrate Fall

In season 15 episode 25 of America's Test Kitchen, viewers are treated to an autumnal feast with "A Meal to Celebrate Fall." The episode features several classic fall ingredients and dishes, with the Test Kitchen chefs sharing their tips and tricks for making each dish perfectly.

The episode begins with a segment on roasted butternut squash soup. The Test Kitchen chefs discuss the best way to roast the squash for maximum flavor, as well as the importance of using homemade chicken stock for the soup base. They also share a few variations on the classic soup recipe, including a spicy version with Thai curry paste.

Next up is a segment on beef stew with fall vegetables. The Test Kitchen chefs take viewers through the process of making the perfect beef stew, from choosing the right cut of meat to selecting the ideal veggies to incorporate. Viewers will learn the importance of browning the meat thoroughly before cooking it in a Dutch oven, as well as the secrets to achieving a perfectly thick and flavorful gravy.

The episode also features a segment on apple crisp, a classic fall treat that's perfect for a cozy night in. The Test Kitchen chefs talk about the importance of using tart baking apples, such as Granny Smith, for the best flavor and texture. They also share their tips for achieving the perfect crisp topping, which includes a blend of oats, flour, butter, and brown sugar.

For those looking to try something a little more ambitious, the Test Kitchen chefs also demonstrate how to make homemade gnocchi with a creamy pumpkin sauce. Viewers will learn the secrets to working with potato-based gnocchi dough, which can be notoriously difficult to get right. They'll also see how to roast fresh pumpkin for the sauce, and how to incorporate savory ingredients like sage and Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor.

Finally, the episode wraps up with a dessert segment on maple pecan pie. The Test Kitchen chefs share their tips for making the perfect flaky pie crust, which includes using ice-cold butter and shortening and rolling the dough out carefully. They also show viewers how to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness in the filling, with just the right amount of maple syrup and chopped pecans.

Throughout the episode, viewers will enjoy the Test Kitchen chefs' expert commentary and their ability to take classic fall dishes to the next level. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner looking to expand your culinary horizons, "A Meal to Celebrate Fall" is sure to inspire and delight.