Milk Street Television Season 5 Episode 4 Portuguese Classics

In season 2, episode 5 of Christopher Kimball's Milk Street, viewers will be taken on a culinary journey to Portugal, where classic dishes will be explored and recreated in the Milk Street kitchen. In this episode, titled "Portuguese Classics," Christopher and his team will delve into the rich flavors and traditions that make up Portuguese cuisine.

The episode starts off with a visit to New Bedford, Massachusetts, which boasts the largest Portuguese community in the United States. There, Christopher explores the history of Portuguese cuisine in America and learns about the cultural significance of dishes like bacalhau (salt cod) and caldo verde (kale soup).

Back in the Milk Street kitchen, Christopher and his team get to work creating their own versions of these classic dishes. They start with bacalhau, a widely beloved salt cod dish that is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. The Milk Street version is made with pan-seared cod, sautéed onions, and sweet piquillo peppers, all atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.

Next up is caldo verde, which is a simple yet flavorful soup made with kale, potatoes, and spicy chouriço sausage. Christopher and his team add their own twist to the dish by using collard greens instead of kale for a slightly heartier texture.

The episode also features a dessert course, where Christopher explores the sweet side of Portuguese cuisine. He creates a traditional custard tart known as pastel de nata, which originated in the city of Lisbon. The Milk Street version features a slightly flaky crust and a rich, creamy filling made with egg yolks, heavy cream, and sugar.

Throughout the episode, Christopher also shares some tips and tricks for cooking with the various ingredients used in Portuguese dishes. For example, he demonstrates how to properly prepare salt cod by soaking it in water for at least 24 hours to remove the excess salt. He also explains the importance of using fresh chouriço sausage to achieve the authentic flavor of caldo verde.

In addition to exploring classic Portuguese dishes, the episode also delves into the overall culinary culture of Portugal. Viewers will learn about the unique spices and ingredients that are commonly used in Portuguese cooking, as well as the country's rich wine tradition.

Overall, "Portuguese Classics" is a celebration of one of the world's most beloved cuisines. Whether you're a longtime fan of Portuguese food or a newcomer to the cuisine, this Milk Street episode is sure to inspire you to get in the kitchen and try your hand at some traditional dishes.