Cook's Country Season 15 Episode 5 Thai Comforts

In season 15 episode 5 of Cook's Country, titled "Thai Comforts," the team is exploring the world of Thai cuisine and bringing some comfort food favorites to the table. Hosts Bridget and Julia start off by creating a classic dish - Pad Thai. Known for its balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, this iconic Thai dish is a favorite of many foodies. The team prepares the rice noodles in boiling water and tosses them with a sauce made from tamarind paste, fish sauce, and sugar. They cook the tofu separately and then add it to the noodles along with bean sprouts, scallions, and peanuts.

Next, the focus shifts to a dish that may not be as well known in the United States - Khao Tom. This Thai version of a rice porridge is a comforting breakfast dish that is typically served with pork and ginger. To make it even more flavorful, Bridget and Julia add some salty sausage and a bit of soy sauce. They also top it with crispy fried garlic for an added crunch.

The team then moves on to a dish that is known for its versatility - Curry. Julia explains that curry paste is the key to creating authentic Thai curry and takes the time to make her own using ingredients like coriander seeds, cumin, and turmeric. Bridget then uses this paste to create a Red Curry with Chicken that is both spicy and full of flavor. She combines the paste with coconut milk, chicken broth, and fish sauce, and then adds chicken, bamboo shoots, and Thai basil.

Another dish that is explored in the episode is Kao Pad, or Fried Rice. Bridget and Julia create a version that is slightly different from what most Americans are used to. They start by frying up some onions and garlic in oil and then add shrimp, peas, and eggs. They then add cooked rice to the pan and season it with fish sauce and soy sauce. They top it with crispy fried shallots for an added crunch.

Finally, the episode ends with a dessert that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth - Mango Sticky Rice. This classic dessert is made by cooking glutinous rice with coconut milk and sugar. The team then adds sliced mango and tops it all off with a sauce made from coconut milk and sugar.

Overall, the Thai Comforts episode of Cook's Country offers a mouthwatering exploration of Thai cuisine and showcases some classic comfort dishes that are sure to become favorites in any household. From the iconic Pad Thai to the comforting Khao Tom, there is something for everyone in this episode.