Milk Street Television Season 1 Episode 2 The New Baking

In season 1 episode 2 of Milk Street Television, titled "The New Baking," the series delves into the world of modern baking while keeping traditional methods at the forefront. The episode showcases techniques to create savory, sweet, and even globally inspired baked goods using innovative ingredients and methods.

The episode begins with host Christopher Kimball traveling to France to learn about the art of perfecting croissants from master baker Jean-Claude Berger. Berger shares his tricks of the trade, including laminating the dough with butter, to create flaky layers and crisp edges in the classic French pastry.

Returning to the Milk Street kitchen, Kimball shares techniques for making a variety of bread, with a focus on incorporating whole grains for added nutrition and flavor. He demonstrates how to make a hearty multigrain bread with a crispy crust using a combination of wheat, rye, and cornmeal.

Next, pastry chef Joanne Chang joins Kimball to create her twist on a traditional apple galette, a free-form tart. Chang incorporates sour cream into the dough to add tanginess, then tops it with thinly sliced apples, cinnamon, and sugar before baking until golden brown. The result is a perfectly balanced dessert that combines flaky crust, tender fruit, and just the right amount of sweetness.

The episode then shifts to international baking with a look at the Danish dessert kringles. Kimball shares the secret to the flaky, layered pastry - folding the dough over a layer of butter - and fills it with a nutty almond filling. The result is a beautiful, crispy pastry that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Lastly, the episode explores a savory take on baking with a recipe for rustic Italian focaccia. Kimball and co-host Rayna Jhaveri show viewers how to make a garlic and herb-infused oil that is drizzled over the dough before baking, imparting a fragrant flavor to the bread. They then top it off with a variety of toppings, including sweet cherry tomatoes and tangy olives.

Overall, "The New Baking" episode of Milk Street Television showcases the versatility of baking while offering tips and techniques to update traditional recipes with modern twists. Each segment is full of practical advice and inspiration for both novice and experienced bakers.