Ep 12. Jan Birnbaum and Lidia Bastianich

Julia Child, the beloved American chef, invites two master chefs to join her in the kitchen for episode 12 of season 1 of "Julia Child - Cooking with Master Chefs". Jan Birnbaum and Lidia Bastianich, both renowned chefs in their own right, bring their unique flavors and cooking styles to the show.

Jan Birnbaum, a California-based chef, begins the episode by preparing his signature dish, "Big Easy Gumbo". He takes Julia through the process step by step, starting with making the roux, a mixture of flour and oil that forms the base of the gumbo. While the roux is cooking, Jan discusses the ingredients that go into the dish, including the holy trinity of Cajun cooking- onions, bell peppers, and celery. He then adds the sausage and chicken to the pot and simmers it all together until it's thick, rich, and full of flavor. Julia can't resist taking a taste, and she deems it delicious.

Next up is Lidia Bastianich, an Italian chef and restaurateur. She shares a recipe for "Beet Ravioli with Poppy Seeds and Butter", a dish that's as beautiful as it is delicious. Lidia makes the pasta dough from scratch and discusses the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients. She also shares tips for making perfectly shaped ravioli, including how to crimp the edges just right. While the ravioli cooks, Lidia prepares the sauce, which is a simple but flavorful combination of butter and poppy seeds. She drizzles the sauce over the ravioli, and Julia can hardly wait to dig in.

Throughout the episode, Julia chats with both chefs about their backgrounds and culinary journeys. Jan shares stories about cooking in New Orleans and working with legendary chefs like Paul Prudhomme. Lidia talks about her upbringing in Italy and how her mother's cooking inspired her to pursue a career in food. Together, they all share a love for cooking and the joy of sharing a great meal with others.

In addition to showcasing these two talented chefs, the episode also explores the themes of innovation and tradition in cooking. Jan's gumbo is a perfect example of how Southern cuisine has evolved over time, with influences from African, French, and Spanish cooking. Lidia's ravioli, on the other hand, embodies the classic Italian flavors and techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Overall, episode 12 of "Julia Child - Cooking with Master Chefs" is a wonderful celebration of two incredible chefs and the art of cooking. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves food, and it's sure to inspire viewers to get into the kitchen and try something new.