Ep 8. Cook Like a Pro: Pork

In the eighth episode of season 27 of Barefoot Contessa, titled "Cook Like a Pro: Pork," Ina Garten focuses on different ways to cook pork and elevates this meat with simple yet flavorful techniques. For the pork tenderloin, Garten uses a combination of Dijon mustard, garlic, rosemary, and balsamic vinegar to create a juicy and succulent dish that is perfect for dinner parties.

In the episode, Garten also prepares pork chops with a delightful apple chutney. For this recipe, she sears the pork chops on a cast-iron skillet until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The apple chutney is a delicious complement to the meat, providing a savory and slightly sweet balance of flavors.

Another pork dish featured in this episode is the roast pork belly with fennel and garlic. Garten slow-cooks the pork belly until it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. The fennel and garlic infuse the meat with a subtle anise-like flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the pork.

To finish off the episode, Garten prepares a delicious and easy-to-make Cuban-style roast pork. This recipe calls for a blend of herbs and spices, including oregano, cumin, and garlic, to create a deeply flavorful and aromatic dish. This roast pork is typically served with black beans and rice, which Garten also demonstrates how to make.

Throughout the episode, Garten shares tips and tricks for cooking pork and stresses the importance of properly seasoning and browning meat to enhance its natural flavors. She also highlights the versatility of pork, indicating that it can be prepared in various ways, from tenderloin to belly, and suggesting that it can be served as a savory main course or a flavorful addition to sandwiches and salads.

Overall, "Cook Like a Pro: Pork" is a mouth-watering episode that showcases the delicious potential of pork in various dishes. Garten's easy-to-follow instructions and cooking techniques make it a great resource for home cooks looking to perfect their pork dishes and impress their guests.