Ep 18. Corn the Beef (Pickled Pink)

Good Eats Season 10 Episode 18, "Corn the Beef (Pickled Pink)," is a mouth-watering exploration of the perfect synergy between two of America's most beloved foods: corned beef and pickles. Host Alton Brown takes viewers on a culinary journey through the history and science of these iconic ingredients, teaching them how to make their own corned beef and pickles from scratch.

The episode begins with an in-depth conversation about the origins of corned beef and its place in American food culture. Alton Brown explains that the dish was originally an Irish specialty, but it gained popularity in America during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a staple for Jewish delis and St. Patrick's Day celebrations alike.

Next, the focus turns to pickles, and Alton Brown delves into the science behind what makes them sour. He explains how lacto-fermentation works and why it creates the acidic zing that we associate with pickles. Throughout the episode, he offers tips and tricks for making everything from classic dill pickles to spicy and sweet variations.

With the two components of the dish covered, Alton Brown moves on to the main event: making corned beef and pickled corned beef. He walks viewers through the process of corning their own beef, which involves dry-curing the meat with a mix of salt, sugar, and spices. He also teaches viewers how to control the cure for desired color and texture.

The pickling process comes next, as Alton Brown shows viewers how to transform their corned beef into pickled corned beef. He explains that the key to getting the perfect texture and flavor is to brine the meat in a vinegar-based solution infused with pickling spices. Once the meat has been pickled to perfection, Alton Brown shows viewers how to slice it thinly for use in sandwiches or as a protein-packed snack.

Throughout the episode, Alton Brown offers a wealth of useful tips and tricks for home cooks looking to take their corned beef and pickle game to the next level. From learning how to control the fermentation process for crispier pickles to creating a foolproof method for cooking corned beef to tender perfection, this episode is packed with culinary know-how.

Overall, "Corn the Beef (Pickled Pink)" is a must-watch episode for any foodie looking to explore the intersection of two beloved foods. With Alton Brown at the helm, viewers are sure to come away with a newfound appreciation for the flavors and techniques that make corned beef and pickles such beloved classics.