America's Test Kitchen Season 17 Episode 3 Back to Basics

In season 17, episode 3 of America's Test Kitchen, titled "Back to Basics," the hosts take a fundamental approach to cooking by revisiting classic recipes and techniques. This episode emphasizes the importance of mastering basic culinary skills as a foundation for creating more complex and delicious dishes.

First, the hosts demonstrate how to make the perfect roast chicken by discussing the best cuts of meat, seasoning techniques, and different methods for cooking crispy skin. They also share tips for making a pan sauce to pair with the chicken, showcasing techniques that can be used for other meat dishes.

Next, the episode shifts its focus to pasta, where the hosts share their secrets for making foolproof homemade noodles. They explain how to mix and roll pasta dough by hand, and also demonstrate how to make different shapes, such as fettuccine and ravioli. Viewers will learn ways to avoid common mistakes and get perfectly cooked pasta every time.

The third segment of the episode features a lesson on pie crusts, with the hosts debunking common myths about crust-making and sharing the optimal techniques for achieving a flawless flaky crust. They also discuss the best types of flour and fats to use, and the importance of properly chilling the dough.

For the final segment, the hosts turn their attention to a kitchen staple that many of us may take for granted – rice. They demonstrate different methods for cooking rice, sharing tips for achieving fluffy and flavorful grains with every batch. They also discuss the different types of rice and the optimal water-to-rice ratios for each variety.

Throughout the episode, the hosts share their extensive knowledge and experience in the kitchen, providing detailed guidance and expert advice on each topic. They also answer common questions and offer troubleshooting tips, making this episode a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their cooking skills.

Overall, "Back to Basics" offers a refreshing approach to cooking, reminding viewers that mastering fundamental techniques can lead to delicious and impressive dishes. By revisiting simple recipes and methods, the hosts provide viewers with a solid foundation for building their culinary skills and experimenting with more complex dishes. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned pro, this episode has something to offer everyone.