Ep 1. Where There's Smoke, There's Fish

In the season 4 premiere of Good Eats, titled "Where There's Smoke, There's Fish," host Alton Brown takes on the challenge of smoking fish in his own backyard. Brown begins by introducing different types of fish available in the market and explains the benefits of smoking fish, such as long-term preservation and improved flavor.

The episode also provides viewers with the basics of smoking, including the different types of smokers, fuel sources, and wood chips to use. Brown demonstrates how to use a basic smoker, as well as how to create a DIY smoker with a wok and a few household items.

Next, Brown delves into the different flavor profiles of smoking woods, such as hickory, apple, and mesquite. He explains how each wood imparts a unique taste to the fish and how to choose the right wood for different types of fish.

Once the basics of smoking are covered, Brown moves on to his favorite part – experimenting with different flavor combinations. He demonstrates how to make a basic dry rub using paprika, salt, sugar, and other spices, and how to use it on different types of fish. Brown also introduces viewers to his secret weapon – a homemade teriyaki sauce that he uses to baste the fish while it's smoking.

Throughout the episode, Brown shares tips and tricks for perfecting the smoking process, such as how to maintain the ideal temperature and how to tell when the fish is fully cooked. He also reminds viewers of the importance of food safety when smoking fish, such as using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the fish reaches the recommended level.

To wrap up the episode, Brown showcases the versatility of smoked fish by creating dishes such as smoked salmon and cream cheese dip, smoked trout and potato salad, and smoked fish chowder. Each dish highlights the unique flavors that smoking brings to the fish and inspires viewers to get creative with their own smoked fish recipes.

Overall, "Where There's Smoke, There's Fish" is a comprehensive guide to smoking fish for both novice and experienced home cooks. Brown's passion for the process is infectious, and his quirky sense of humor keeps the episode engaging and entertaining. Whether you're looking to try smoking fish for the first time or want to take your skills to the next level, this episode is sure to inspire.