Ep 4. French Fried

Cooking on High is a new Netflix original series that brings cannabis-infused cooking front and center. In each episode, two chefs go head-to-head to create a dish that showcases the unique flavors and effects of different strains of cannabis. In the fourth episode of season one, titled "French Fried," we join contestants Chef Michael Magallanes and Chef Guang Jia as they vie for the top spot with their interpretations of cannabis-infused French dishes.

The episode opens with host Josh Leyva introducing the judges and providing an overview of the competition format. Each chef will have 30 minutes to create their dish, and each will be infused with a different strain of cannabis. In this episode, the strains are named "French Blue Dream" and "French Vanilla." The judges are then introduced: comedian Ron Funches, chef Holden Jagger from Altered Plates, and cannabis expert Ngaio Bealum.

The first chef up is Chef Michael Magallanes, who has previously been featured on Vice's Bong Appetit. He is tasked with creating a dish infused with "French Blue Dream," which is known for its uplifting and energizing effects. Chef Michael has a wealth of experience with cannabis cooking, and he immediately gets to work, blending the strain with butter and incorporating it into a variety of French-inspired dishes. His final creation, inspired by a classic French onion soup, is a rich and savory onion puree with a crispy bread and cheese topping, infused with "French Blue Dream."

Next up is Chef Guang Jia, a chef from New York City who is tasked with incorporating "French Vanilla" into his dish. This strain is known for its sweet, creamy flavor profile and relaxing effects. Chef Guang decides to create a classic French dish - pommes frites, or French fries - infused with "French Vanilla." He prepares the fries in canola oil infused with the strain, then serves them with a variety of dipping sauces, including a cannabis-infused mayo.

As the chefs present their dishes to the judges, they provide insightful commentary on the flavors and effects of their chosen cannabis strains. The judges take their time savoring each dish, considering both the taste and potency of the cannabis infusion. There is plenty of laughter and joking around, but the judges take their roles seriously, carefully considering each dish and providing thoughtful feedback.

At the end of the competition, Chef Michael's dish emerges as the winner. His rich and complex onion puree, infused with "French Blue Dream," was a standout for the judges. However, Chef Guang's pommes frites were also highly praised, with the judges noting the balanced flavors and perfect execution.

Overall, "French Fried" is a fun and festive episode of Cooking on High. It highlights the versatility of cannabis as an ingredient and showcases the creativity and skill of the competing chefs. Even those who are not cannabis enthusiasts will appreciate the artistry and ingenuity of these talented cooks as they incorporate this unique ingredient into their dishes. Whether you're a foodie, a cannabis connoisseur, or just looking for an entertaining and informative culinary show, Cooking on High is sure to satisfy.