Ep 101. House That Dripped Chocolate

Good Eats season 16 episode 101, titled "House That Dripped Chocolate," is a delectable journey into the world of chocolate. Host Alton Brown takes viewers on a tour of his very own chocolate factory, where he demonstrates the process of making chocolate from scratch.

The episode begins with Brown explaining the importance of using the right chocolate when cooking and baking. He explains the differences between milk, dark, and white chocolate and how each one can affect the taste and texture of a dish.

Brown then takes viewers on a tour of his chocolate factory, which is located in his attic. He shows how he roasts and grinds cacao beans to make his own chocolate. He also explains the role of cocoa butter in making chocolate and how it affects the consistency of the chocolate.

Next, Brown demonstrates how to make a classic chocolate sauce, which he calls the "little black dress of desserts." He shows how to properly melt chocolate, and how to emulsify it with cream to create a smooth and silky sauce. He also gives tips on how to use chocolate sauce to enhance other desserts, such as ice cream, cherries, and even popcorn.

Brown then moves on to his chocolate cake recipe, which he says is the best in the world. He demonstrates how to make a rich chocolate batter, which he bakes in three layers. He also shows how to make a chocolate frosting, which he layers between the cake layers and on top of the finished cake. The result is a decadent and moist chocolate cake that is sure to satisfy any chocolate lover.

The episode concludes with Brown explaining the science behind tempering chocolate, which is the process of heating and cooling chocolate to create a smooth and shiny finish. He demonstrates how to temper chocolate using several different methods, including using a seed crystal and the tabling method. He also shows how to use the tempered chocolate to create stunning decorations, such as chocolate curls and leaves.

Overall, "House That Dripped Chocolate" is a delightful and informative episode of Good Eats, packed with mouth-watering chocolate recipes and fascinating tidbits of chocolate knowledge. Brown's passion for chocolate is infectious, and viewers are sure to come away from the episode with a newfound appreciation for this delicious and versatile ingredient.