Essential Pepin Season 1 Episode 6 Special Spuds

Essential Pepin is a cooking show that features Jacques Pepin, a renowned French chef, sharing essential recipes and techniques. In season 1 episode 6, Special Spuds, Jacques focuses on the humble and versatile potato.

The episode starts with Jacques making his famous Potato Galette, which combines thinly sliced potatoes, butter, and salt. He shows how to create a crispy and golden crust that elevates the dish. Next, Jacques prepares a classic French dish, Pommes Anna, where thinly sliced potatoes are layered in a mold with melted butter and baked to perfection. He shares tips on how to create a perfect texture and how to slice the potatoes evenly.

Jacques then moves on to more unconventional but equally delicious dishes. He makes a delicious potato salad with homemade mayonnaise and chives, which highlights the creaminess of the potato and the tanginess of the mayo. Jacques also prepares a mashed potato dish with a twist, by adding parsnips and creating a sweet and savory flavor profile.

The episode also features Jacques' take on the traditional American dish of baked potatoes. He shows how to make perfectly fluffy and tender baked potatoes, which are then filled with a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, chopped chives, and crispy bacon. Jacques then adds his own spin by making a baked potato stuffed with sautéed mushrooms and spinach, topped with gruyere cheese.

Throughout the episode, Jacques emphasizes the importance of using the right type of potatoes for each dish. He explains that waxy potatoes, such as the red-skinned or fingerling varieties, are ideal for potato salads and gratins, whereas starchy potatoes, such as russets, are better for mashed potatoes and baking.

One of the standout parts of the episode is when Jacques shares his recipe for homemade potato chips, which are crispy and addictive. He shows how to slice the potatoes thinly and uniformly, and explains the importance of frying them at the right temperature. Jacques also talks about the history of potato chips and their popularity in the United States.

In addition to his delicious recipes, Jacques offers valuable cooking tips and techniques throughout the episode. He shows how to sharpen a knife with a sharpening stone and demonstrates the proper way to use a mandoline for slicing vegetables. He also gives tips on how to make a perfect mayonnaise by slowly adding the oil and whisking constantly.

Overall, Special Spuds is a fantastic episode of Essential Pepin that showcases the versatility and deliciousness of potatoes. Jacques' recipes and techniques are easy to follow and will leave viewers feeling confident and inspired in the kitchen.