Ep 11. Pantry Raid II: Seeing Red

In "Pantry Raid II: Seeing Red," host Alton Brown delves into the world of red food. Beginning with an overview of the importance of color in food, Brown explains how red foods can evoke certain emotions and how they can be used to visually stimulate diners. Brown then turns his attention to the various types of red foods that can be found in most pantries, including tomato sauce, ketchup, and paprika. He explores the history of these foods and how they have become staples in kitchens around the world.

After explaining the basics of red foods, Brown dives into three unique recipes that all feature red ingredients. The first recipe is a red onion tart that takes advantage of the natural sweetness and crunch of red onions. Brown demonstrates how to properly caramelize the onions to achieve a deep, rich color and flavor. The tart crust is made from scratch and is filled with a mixture of cream cheese, goat cheese, and the caramelized onions.

The second recipe Brown tackles is a dish of grilled red peppers stuffed with a quinoa mixture. Brown walks viewers through the process of grilling the peppers to achieve a smoky flavor and charred skin. The quinoa mixture includes red onions, garlic, and a variety of spices, including cumin and chili powder. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

The final recipe of the episode is a red velvet cake that is sure to please any sweet tooth. Brown delves into the history of the cake and explains how it got its name (hint: it has to do with a chemical reaction between cocoa powder and baking soda). He also offers tips for achieving the perfect texture and color. The red velvet cake is finished with a cream cheese frosting that features a surprise ingredient.

Throughout the episode, Brown offers tips and tricks for working with red foods, including how to prevent red stains on hands and cutting boards. He also explores the health benefits of red foods and explains how they can help to lower the risk of certain diseases.

Overall, "Pantry Raid II: Seeing Red" is a colorful and informative episode that delves into the world of red foods. Brown's fun and quirky approach to cooking is on full display, and viewers are sure to love his unique recipes and cooking tricks. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, there's something for everyone in this episode of Good Eats.