Ep 13. Pub-Style Seafood

In this episode of Cook's Country, the team dives into the world of pub-style seafood, exploring some of the classic dishes that have made their way onto our plates and into our hearts. From crispy fish and chips to succulent steamed mussels, viewers will learn how to prepare these beloved dishes in their own kitchens.

The show starts off with a trip to Portland, Maine, where host Bridget Lancaster chats with local fisherman and seafood expert Doug DeCarolis. DeCarolis shares some of his favorite tips for selecting and preparing seafood for the perfect pub-style meal.

First up on the menu is fish and chips, a classic pub dish that has been satisfying hungry customers for generations. Chris Kimball takes viewers through the process of creating the perfect batter for the fish, demonstrating how to achieve both crispy, golden exteriors and tender, flaky insides. The team also discusses the best type of fish to use for fish and chips, as well as the ideal oil for frying.

Next, the focus shifts to mussels, another staple of the pub menu. Julia Collin Davison shows viewers how to steam mussels to perfection, adding flavorful ingredients like garlic, white wine, and herbs to create a fragrant broth. Viewers will learn the best techniques for cleaning and preparing mussels, as well as how to work with live mollusks.

Moving on from shellfish, the team tackles a classic pub-style seafood stew. Chef Erin McMurrer shares her recipe for a savory Cioppino, packed with tender shrimp, scallops, mussels, and cod, all simmered in a rich tomato broth. McMurrer walks viewers step-by-step through the preparation process, highlighting key ingredients and techniques for creating a hearty, satisfying seafood stew.

Last but not least, the team turns their attention to the side dishes that often accompany pub-style seafood. Lancaster demonstrates how to make the perfect fries, offering tips for achieving the desired texture and crispness. Kimball shares a recipe for tartar sauce, a tangy condiment that pairs perfectly with fish and chips, while Davison tackles coleslaw.

Throughout the episode, the team offers insights and tips that will help viewers recreate the flavors of their favorite seafood dishes in their own kitchens. From selecting the best-quality ingredients to mastering key techniques, Cook's Country provides a comprehensive guide to pub-style seafood that viewers won't want to miss.