Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics Season 1 Episode 19 Barefoot Classics

In Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics season 1 episode 19, titled "Barefoot Classics," host Ina Garten takes viewers on a journey through some of her favorite classic recipes. The episode starts with a lesson on how to make the perfect roast chicken, a dish that Garten considers to be the quintessential classic meal. She shows viewers how to prepare the chicken with her own blend of herbs and spices, then roasts it to perfection in the oven.

Next up on the menu is a classic tomato soup, which Garten pairs with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food meal. Garten demonstrates how to make the soup from scratch using fresh tomatoes and other simple ingredients, and tops it off with a dollop of crème fraîche and a sprinkle of fresh basil.

For the main course, Garten prepares a creamy and indulgent beef stroganoff. She starts by searing strips of beef in a hot pan, then sautéing onions and mushrooms until they're soft and fragrant. Next, she adds some beef broth and sour cream to create a rich and savory sauce that perfectly complements the tender beef.

To round out the meal, Garten whips up a batch of classic mashed potatoes, which she serves alongside the beef stroganoff. She explains the importance of using Yukon gold potatoes for a smooth and creamy texture, and shows viewers how to add butter and cream to take them to the next level.

Finally, for dessert, Garten prepares a classic crème brûlée that's rich and decadent without being too heavy. She starts by splitting a vanilla bean and scraping out the seeds, then mixing them with sugar and egg yolks to create a smooth and creamy custard. She then bakes the custard in ramekins until it's set, and sprinkles the tops with sugar before using a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar and create that signature crunchy top.

Throughout the episode, Garten shares her tips and tricks for making these classic dishes even better, and encourages viewers to experiment with their own variations and additions to make them their own. With her easy-to-follow instructions and warm and welcoming demeanor, Garten makes even the most complex dishes seem simple and approachable. "Barefoot Classics" is a perfect episode for anyone looking to learn how to make some of the most iconic and beloved dishes in home cooking, and to do it with style and panache.