My Greek Table with Diane Kochilas Season 1 Episode 3 Episode 103: Ancient Grains for Modern Cooks

In episode 3 of season 1 of My Greek Table with Diane Kochilas, titled "Ancient Grains for Modern Cooks," viewers are taken on a journey through the unique and traditional uses of ancient grains in Greek cuisine. Kochilas explains how, despite their popularity in modern diets, ancient grains have been a staple ingredient in Greek cooking for thousands of years.

The episode begins with a look at one of the most popular and well-known ancient grains: quinoa. Kochilas takes viewers to a small village in Crete where quinoa is being produced and explores how this trendy "superfood" has found a place in traditional Greek cuisine. She speaks with local farmers and chefs about the benefits of using quinoa in their cooking and provides some delicious recipes for viewers to try at home.

Next, Kochilas turns her attention to another ancient grain: farro. She visits a farm in central Greece where farro is grown and harvested and speaks with the farmers about their traditional methods for cultivating this nutrient-rich grain. She also shows viewers how to incorporate farro into their own cooking with a variety of delicious recipes, including a creamy farro risotto and a colorful Greek salad with crunchy farro grains.

The episode continues with a look at spelt, another ancient grain that has been a staple of the Greek diet for centuries. Kochilas explores the production of spelt in Crete and speaks with local farmers about the versatile uses of this hearty grain. She also shares some of her favorite recipes for spelt, including a flavorful vegan stew and a sweet and nutty spelt pudding that's perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Finally, Kochilas introduces viewers to teff, a tiny grain that has been a staple of Ethiopian cuisine for thousands of years. She explains how teff can be used in a variety of different dishes and shares her own unique recipe for a savory teff and vegetable pancake.

Throughout the episode, Kochilas emphasizes the importance of incorporating ancient grains into our modern diets. She explains that not only are these grains incredibly nutritious, but they also bring a unique and delicious flavor to any dish. Viewers will come away from the episode with a newfound appreciation for these ancient ingredients and the many ways they can be used in their own cooking.

Overall, "Ancient Grains for Modern Cooks" is a fascinating and delicious look at the ways in which traditional Greek cuisine continues to evolve and adapt to modern tastes and trends. Kochilas is an engaging and knowledgeable guide, providing valuable insights and mouth-watering recipes that are sure to inspire viewers to explore the many uses of these ancient grains in their own cooking.