Ep 1. Turkey - Not Just for Thanksgiving

In Barefoot Contessa season 4 episode 1, titled "Turkey - Not Just for Thanksgiving," Ina Garten, also known as the Barefoot Contessa, devotes an entire episode to turkey, a bird that is often associated with autumn and Thanksgiving. She shares some of her favorite recipes for utilizing turkey all year-round, not just during the holiday season.

The episode starts with Ina heading to her favorite local butcher to pick up a fresh turkey for her recipes. While there, she makes sure to ask for tips on how to choose the best turkey for different dishes. She then heads back to her kitchen to start cooking, with the first recipe being her Turkey Lasagna. Ina layers browned turkey breast with lasagna noodles, creamy ricotta cheese, and homemade tomato sauce for a twist on a classic Italian dish that her husband, Jeffrey, loves.

Next up is a simple recipe for Turkey Soup that Ina claims is a great way to use up leftover turkey. She starts by sautéing vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions in a pot before adding homemade turkey stock and shredded leftover turkey. She tops it off with fresh dill and parsley for a comforting soup that is perfect on a cold winter day.

For those who love a good burger, Ina puts her spin on it with her Turkey Burgers. She mixes ground turkey with fresh garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings before grilling it up with melted Gruyere cheese and serving it on a toasted bun with all the fixings.

To showcase turkey's versatility, Ina also prepares Turkey Roulade, which is a rolled-up turkey breast that is stuffed with a delicious mixture of dried apricots, cranberries, and sausage. She then bakes it in the oven and serves it with a flavorful gravy.

Lastly, Ina prepares a healthy and colorful Turkey and Couscous Salad that is perfect for lunch or a light dinner. She starts by roasting turkey tenderloins in the oven with a blend of spices and herbs. The turkey is then sliced and served on a bed of couscous, mixed greens, and a lemon vinaigrette.

Throughout the episode, Ina shares helpful tips and tricks for cooking turkey, such as how to brine the bird for extra flavor and moisture, and how to choose the right cut of meat for each recipe. She also emphasizes the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients in all her dishes.

Overall, "Turkey - Not Just for Thanksgiving" is a great episode for anyone looking to expand their turkey repertoire and showcase the bird's versatility. Ina's recipes are accessible and easy to follow, making it a great watch for both experienced and novice home cooks.