Milk Street Television Season 5 Episode 20 The Art of Japanese Cooking

In this episode of Christopher Kimball's Milk Street, Season 2, viewers get an in-depth look at the art of Japanese cooking. Host Christopher Kimball welcomes culinary expert and author Sonoko Sakai into the Milk Street Kitchen to share her expertise and teach viewers about the flavors, techniques, and ingredients that make Japanese cuisine unique.

The episode begins with an exploration of the complex flavor profiles that are characteristic of Japanese cooking. Sakai and Kimball discuss the role of umami in Japanese cuisine and how it is traditionally achieved through the use of ingredients like kombu, bonito flakes, and mushrooms. Viewers learn how to make a versatile dashi broth that forms the foundation of many Japanese recipes.

Sakai goes on to demonstrate the importance of precision in Japanese cooking, particularly in the preparation of rice. She shares her technique for washing and soaking rice to ensure the perfect texture and flavor. Sakai also explains the proper way to use a rice cooker and gives tips for cooking rice on the stovetop.

The episode features several recipes that showcase the flavors and techniques of Japanese cooking. Sakai prepares a colorful and flavorful chirashi sushi bowl, featuring sushi rice topped with a variety of fresh seafood, vegetables, and edible flowers. She also makes a classic Japanese-style potato salad, which incorporates ingredients like Japanese mayo, pickled vegetables, and shiso leaves.

Finally, Sakai shares a recipe for a foolproof teriyaki sauce that can be used on everything from grilled meats to roasted vegetables. She explains how the sauce is made from a combination of soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar and demonstrates how to use it to create a delicious teriyaki salmon dish.

Throughout the episode, Sakai emphasizes the importance of using high-quality, authentic ingredients in Japanese cooking. She introduces viewers to specialty ingredients like shiso leaves, wasabi, and yuzu, and shares tips for sourcing them in the United States.

Overall, The Art of Japanese Cooking offers a fascinating and comprehensive introduction to the flavors, techniques, and ingredients that make Japanese cuisine so unique and delicious. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking to expand your culinary repertoire, this episode is a must-watch.