Ep 9. Flat Is Beautiful

In season 3 episode 9 of Good Eats titled "Flat Is Beautiful," host Alton Brown explores the world of flatbreads. From naan to pita, lavash to tortillas, Alton breaks down the origins and unique characteristics of each type of flatbread.

Alton begins the episode by examining the science behind flatbreads. He explains that flatbreads are essentially flour and water mixed together to make a dough and then flattened out into a thin, round shape. The thickness of the dough and the cooking method determine the texture and flavor of the final product.

First up, Alton tackles naan, an Indian flatbread traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven. However, most home cooks don't have access to a tandoor oven, so Alton demonstrates how to make naan on a stovetop. He starts by making a simple dough with flour, yeast, water, and yogurt. Once the dough has risen, he shows how to shape and cook the naan on a cast-iron skillet. Alton also shares tips for adding flavor to the naan, such as brushing it with garlic-infused butter or topping it with nigella seeds.

Next, Alton takes a trip to a local pita bakery to learn how this flatbread is made. He discovers that the secret to a perfect pita is high heat – the dough needs to cook quickly in a very hot oven to create the signature pocket. Alton then shows how to make pita at home using a baking stone and a hot oven. He also demonstrates how to stuff the pita with flavorful fillings like falafel and hummus.

Alton moves on to lavash, a thin Armenian flatbread that can be flavored with herbs, seeds, or cheese. He shows how to make a simple dough with flour, water, and olive oil, and then demonstrates how to shape and cook it on a griddle. Alton shares some creative ideas for using lavash, such as using it as a pizza crust or wrapping it around fresh vegetables and hummus.

Finally, Alton explores the world of tortillas, a staple in Mexican cuisine. He reveals that the key to a good tortilla is masa harina, a special type of corn flour made from dried corn treated with lime. Alton makes his own tortillas from scratch using masa harina and water, then cooks them on a cast-iron skillet until they're lightly browned and pliable. He also demonstrates how to make crispy tortilla chips and taco shells from tortillas.

Throughout the episode, Alton shares helpful tips and tricks for making perfect flatbreads. He explains the importance of letting the dough rest to develop gluten, using a cast-iron skillet to create a crisp crust, and experimenting with different toppings and fillings. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, "Flat Is Beautiful" is a fun and informative episode that will inspire you to explore the world of flatbreads.