Ep 9. Fry Hard

In season 2 episode 9 of Good Eats titled "Fry Hard," Alton Brown explores the world of frying and the science behind it. With the help of a fryer and a variety of oils, Alton teaches viewers how to make the perfect fried foods without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Starting with the basics, Alton explains the importance of choosing the right oil when frying. He breaks down the various types of oils and their smoke points, which is crucial for preventing the oil from burning and ruining the food. He also goes into the science behind oil absorption and how using a thermometer can help control the temperature and prevent the oil from saturating the food.

Next, Alton dives into the different types of breading and batter for frying. He shows viewers how to make a classic buttermilk batter for chicken, as well as a cornmeal breading for fried catfish. Alton explains the importance of letting the batter or breading rest before frying and how to properly dredge the food to ensure an even coating.

Alton also covers the topic of seasoning and flavoring fried foods. He shows viewers how to make a savory seasoning blend that can be used for a variety of fried foods, as well as a spicy creole seasoning for fried shrimp. He also discusses the use of vinegar and salt to enhance the flavor of fried foods.

Throughout the episode, Alton emphasizes the importance of safety when frying. He demonstrates how to safely handle hot oil and the importance of using a thermometer to prevent oil from splattering. He also provides tips for dealing with a fire in the kitchen.

To wrap up the episode, Alton puts all his knowledge and techniques to the test by frying up a variety of foods, including chicken, catfish, and shrimp. Viewers get to see the final result and learn from Alton's successes and mistakes.

Overall, "Fry Hard" is a fascinating and informative episode that teaches viewers the science behind frying and how to properly fry foods to achieve maximum flavor and texture. Alton Brown's enthusiasm and quirky sense of humor make the episode entertaining and engaging for viewers of all ages. If you're a fan of fried foods or just looking to improve your frying skills, this episode of Good Eats is definitely worth a watch.