Ep 1. Tort(illa) Reform

In the first episode of season 10 of Good Eats, titled Tort(illa) Reform, host Alton Brown tackles the ever-popular Mexican staple: the tortilla. Brown dives deep into the history and science behind tortillas, exploring their roots in Mesoamerican cultures and explaining the chemical reactions that make tortillas so delicious.

Brown begins the episode by discussing the different types of tortillas, including corn, flour, and even nontraditional versions like spinach and tomato tortillas. He points out that while tortillas may seem simple, there's actually a lot of nuance that goes into making the perfect tortilla – from the grind of the masa to the temperature of the cooking surface.

To demonstrate the differences between various types of tortillas, Brown conducts a taste test with several different brands of tortillas, both store-bought and homemade. He notes the flavor, texture, and aroma of each tortilla, and explores how the different ingredients and cooking techniques affect the final product.

Next, Brown takes a deep dive into the science of tortillas. He explains the chemical reactions that occur when masa (the dough used to make corn tortillas) is mixed with water, and why it's important to let the dough rest before making tortillas. He also discusses the Maillard reaction, which occurs when flour tortillas are cooked and gives them their characteristic nutty flavor and aroma.

To demonstrate these scientific principles, Brown makes his own tortillas from scratch, using both masa and flour. He explains the steps involved in making the perfect tortilla, from mixing the dough to pressing it into shape and cooking it on a hot griddle. He also introduces some tips and tricks to ensure that your tortillas turn out perfectly every time, whether you're making corn or flour.

Throughout the episode, Brown also explores the cultural significance of tortillas. He talks about how tortillas have been a staple of Mesoamerican cultures for millennia, and how they've spread throughout the world and become an iconic food in many different countries. He also explains how to properly eat a taco (hint: always use two tortillas!), and discusses some of the different toppings and fillings you can use to make a delicious taco.

Overall, Tort(illa) Reform is a fascinating and educational episode of Good Eats that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the humble tortilla. Whether you're a seasoned tortilla-maker or a complete novice, Brown's tips and tricks are sure to help you make the perfect tortilla every time – and his infectious enthusiasm for the subject is sure to leave a smile on your face.