Extra Virgin Season 5 Episode 3 James Beard Supper
- January 21, 2015
- 20 min
Extra Virgin is a cooking show that follows the lives of Italian-American couple Debi Mazar and Gabriele Corcos as they navigate their marriage, work, and passion for food. Season 5 episode 3 is titled "James Beard Supper," and it features the couple preparing a special meal in honor of the iconic American chef and gastronaut James Beard.
The episode starts with Debi and Gabriele explaining who James Beard was and why he's such an important figure in American cuisine. They share how they were invited to cook a dinner at Beard's former home in Greenwich Village, which has now become the James Beard Foundation's headquarters. Debi and Gabriele are excited about the opportunity to pay tribute to Beard, and they start planning the menu.
The couple decides to create a meal that reflects Beard's love for hearty, rustic, and flavorful dishes. Gabriele heads to the market to buy the ingredients while Debi stays home and prepares the table. She puts together a beautiful table setting that includes vintage china, glassware, and silverware that belonged to her grandmother. She also adds some personal touches, such as candles, flowers, and pictures of James Beard.
When Gabriele returns from the market, the two start cooking. They decide to make a first course of mussels and clams in a spicy tomato broth, which is one of James Beard's signature dishes. They also prepare a main course of grilled lamb chops with roasted vegetables and a side of creamy polenta. For dessert, they make a classic Italian custard called zabaglione, which they serve with fresh berries and biscotti.
Throughout the episode, Debi and Gabriele share cooking tips and anecdotes while working together in the kitchen. They talk about the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients and cooking with love and passion. They also joke around and tease each other, showing their playful and affectionate side.
As they finish cooking and plating the dishes, Debi and Gabriele realize that they're running out of time. They need to leave for the James Beard House in less than an hour, but they still have to finish getting ready and pack the food. They start moving faster and delegating tasks, and finally, they're ready to go.
When they arrive at the James Beard House, Debi and Gabriele are greeted by the staff and the guests, who are eager to taste their creations. They feel nervous but excited, knowing that they're about to share their passion for food with a group of foodies and culinary enthusiasts. The dinner starts, and the mussels and clams are an instant hit. The guests compliment the broth's flavor and texture, and some even go for seconds.
The lamb chops are equally impressive, with their crispy exterior and tender interior. The vegetables are colorful and flavorful, and the polenta is rich and creamy. The guests praise the dish's balance and harmony, and some even ask for the recipe. The zabaglione is the perfect finale, with its light and airy texture and sweet and tangy flavor. The guests enjoy it with a glass of dessert wine and some friendly conversation.
As the dinner ends, Debi and Gabriele feel proud and grateful for the experience. They thank the guests for their compliments and support, and they express their admiration for James Beard and his legacy. They leave the James Beard House feeling inspired and motivated, knowing that they've honored a great chef and shared their love for food with others.
Overall, Extra Virgin season 5 episode 3 is a heartwarming and entertaining tribute to James Beard and his influential role in American cuisine. It showcases Debi and Gabriele's talent, creativity, and passion for cooking, as well as their unique personality and charm. It's a must-watch for foodies, fans of the show, and anyone who loves good food and good company.