Ep 8. Braising Smaller Cuts

Lidia Bastianich, the Italian-American chef is back with a new episode of Lidia's Kitchen season 3. In episode 8 titled Braising Smaller Cuts, Lidia teaches her viewers how to cook small cuts of meat perfectly through braising.

The show starts with Lidia in the kitchen, preparing her ingredients for the first recipe, Braised Pork Ribs. She starts by trimming the ribs and seasoning them with salt and pepper. Then she fries them in a pan until brown on all sides before adding them to a pot with onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. She covers the pot and allows the ribs to braise in the oven at 350 degrees F for two hours. While the ribs are cooking, she prepares a red onion and tomato compote to serve with the dish.

Next, Lidia shares her recipe for Braised Lamb Shank. She starts by searing the shanks in a pan before adding them to a pot with onion, carrot, celery, garlic, and rosemary. She covers the pot and allows the shanks to cook in the oven at 350 degrees for two hours and fifteen minutes. While the shanks are cooking, she prepares a velvety potato and leek puree to serve on the side.

Finally, Lidia switches things up and prepares a seafood dish, Braised Sardines. She starts by cleaning and trimming the sardines before seasoning them with salt, pepper, and oregano. She then fries them in a pan until crispy before transferring them to a pot with onion, garlic, parsley, and tomatoes. She adds white wine and allows the sardines to braise in the oven at 400 degrees F for ten to twelve minutes. While the sardines are cooking, she prepares a homemade bread for dipping in the braising sauce.

Throughout the episode, Lidia shares tips and tricks for perfecting the art of braising smaller cuts of meat. She emphasizes the importance of browning the meat beforehand to enhance flavor and teaches viewers the difference between braising and stewing.

As always, Lidia's passion for Italian cuisine and cooking is evident in this episode of Lidia's Kitchen. Her warm personality and clear instructions make the cooking process feel approachable for viewers of all cooking experience levels. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting, this episode is sure to leave you confident in your braising abilities and ready to impress at your next dinner party.