Ep 5. The Fungal Gourmet

In the fifth episode of Good Eats season 2, host Alton Brown explores the world of edible fungi, or more commonly known as mushrooms. The episode is titled "The Fungal Gourmet", and it is all about mushrooms and their uses in cooking. Alton starts the episode by giving an introduction to the different types of mushrooms, and the difference between those that are bought in the grocery store and wild mushrooms that can be found in the forest.

Alton explains that mushrooms have been used in cooking for thousands of years and that they have many health benefits. He states that fungi are the only non-animal source of vitamin D, which is essential for good health. He then goes on to explain the different types of mushrooms and their uses in cooking.

The episode is divided into three main segments, each focusing on a specific type of mushroom. The first segment is about button mushrooms, which are the most common in the grocery store. Alton explains how to select good quality mushrooms and how to properly clean and store them. He then goes on to demonstrate some simple recipes using button mushrooms, such as a mushroom omelet and a mushroom gravy.

The second segment is about wild mushrooms, which can be found in the forest. Alton stresses the importance of being very careful when selecting wild mushrooms, as some can be poisonous. He shares some tips on how to identify safe wild mushrooms, and shows some delicious recipes using wild mushrooms, such as a wild mushroom risotto and a wild mushroom tart.

The third and final segment is about exotic mushrooms, which are gaining popularity in cooking. Alton explains some of the different types of exotic mushrooms, such as shiitake, oyster, and enoki mushrooms. He demonstrates some recipes using these mushrooms, such as a shiitake mushroom stir-fry and an oyster mushroom soup.

Throughout the episode, Alton shares his tips and techniques for cooking with mushrooms. He explains how to properly clean and store mushrooms, how to cook them to bring out their flavors, and how to incorporate them into different types of dishes. Alton also shares some of his personal favorite mushroom recipes and gives some unique flavor combinations for cooking with mushrooms.

At the end of the episode, Alton summarizes his main points about cooking with mushrooms and emphasizes the importance of selecting good quality mushrooms and being careful when selecting wild mushrooms. Overall, "The Fungal Gourmet" is an informative and entertaining episode that explores the world of edible fungi and provides viewers with some great tips and techniques for cooking with mushrooms.