Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics Season 12 Episode 3 Cooking for Jeffrey: Pizza

In this episode of Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics, host Ina Garten is cooking up a storm for her beloved husband Jeffrey, who just happens to have a passion for pizza. With his favorite dish in mind, Ina sets out to make the perfect pie from scratch in her cozy and inviting Hamptons kitchen.

Starting with the dough, Ina shows viewers how to make a simple and foolproof recipe that requires just a handful of ingredients. She emphasizes the importance of kneading the dough thoroughly and allowing it to rise properly, which can make all the difference in the final product.

While the dough is resting, Ina prepares her signature tomato sauce from canned San Marzano tomatoes, chopped garlic, and fresh herbs. She seasons it with salt and pepper and lets it simmer on the stove for an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Next up is the toppings, and Ina has a few inventive ideas up her sleeve. She starts with a classic Margherita pizza, topped with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil. She then moves on to a more decadent option, a White Pizza with Arugula, which features a creamy base of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, as well as the slightly bitter bite of fresh arugula and the salty tang of prosciutto.

Ina also makes a pizza with Roasted Vegetables, which is loaded up with tender summer squash, red onion, mushrooms, and bell pepper. She finishes it off with crumbled feta cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, which adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the flavors.

Finally, Ina puts together a dessert pizza, which is a fun and unexpected twist on the classic dish. She makes a sweet and buttery crust, then spreads it with a nutty chocolate-hazelnut spread and tops it with sliced bananas and coconut flakes. The result is a delicious and indulgent treat that is sure to impress any pizza lover.

Throughout the episode, Ina shares her tips and tricks for making the perfect pizza, from arranging the toppings in an aesthetically pleasing manner to ensuring that the crust is crispy and golden. She also emphasizes the importance of sharing food with loved ones, as she and Jeffrey sit down to enjoy their homemade feast together.

Overall, Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics season 12 episode 3 is a must-watch for anyone who loves pizza, cooking, and spending time with family and friends. Ina's warm and inviting personality, coupled with her expert culinary skills, make this episode a joy to watch and a great source of inspiration for anyone looking to try their hand at making homemade pizza.