Ep 7. The Oven is On

Lidia's Kitchen season 2 episode 7, titled "The Oven is On," features host Lidia Bastianich demonstrating a variety of oven-baked recipes. Throughout the episode, Lidia explains how to properly use the oven for both savory and sweet dishes, sharing her tips and techniques learned over her many years as a professional chef.

The episode begins with Lidia preparing a classic Italian dish - baked lasagna. She discusses the importance of properly cooking and draining the pasta, as well as layering the ingredients to build flavor. Lidia's recipe includes homemade tomato sauce, béchamel sauce, and a combination of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. She shows viewers how to bake the lasagna in the oven, ensuring that the top layer is crispy and golden brown.

Next, Lidia moves on to a healthy and flavorful oven-baked salmon dish. She demonstrates how to create a marinade using whole grain mustard, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. Lidia advises viewers on how to properly season the fish, and shows them how to bake it in the oven to create a beautiful crust on the outside while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.

Lidia then shifts gears to show viewers a sweet and decadent oven-baked dessert - bread pudding with caramel sauce. She explains the importance of using good quality bread, such as a brioche or challah, to create a rich and buttery base for the pudding. Lidia then walks viewers through a simple yet delicious recipe for caramel sauce, which she pours over the baked pudding before placing it in the oven for one final bake.

In addition to these three main recipes, Lidia also shares several tips and tricks for working with the oven. She discusses the differences between gas and electric ovens, and how to properly preheat the oven to ensure even cooking. Lidia also explains how to use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of meats, ensuring that they are cooked to the proper level of doneness.

Throughout the episode, Lidia's passion for cooking and teaching shines through. She encourages viewers to experiment with their own oven-baked creations, and to not be afraid to make mistakes in the kitchen. Lidia believes that cooking is a joyful and communal experience, and she hopes to inspire viewers to share their own love of cooking with friends and family.

Overall, "The Oven is On" is a delightful and informative episode of Lidia's Kitchen, showcasing Lidia's talent and knowledge as a chef. From savory lasagna to sweet bread pudding, the oven is truly the star of this episode, and viewers are sure to come away with new ideas and inspiration for their own kitchen creations.