Pitchin' In Season 1 Episode 1 Lobster
- January 4, 2009
- 22 min
Pitchin' In is a cooking show that premiered its first season in 2010, in which host Lynn Crawford travels across the United States and Canada to explore the ingredients and techniques that inspire local chefs. In the first episode, named Lobster, Lynn travels to Shediac, New Brunswick, Canada, to learn about the lobster fishing industry.
The episode starts with Lynn driving to Shediac, where she visits the Lobster Festival and meets local fishermen who teach her about the different types of lobsters and how to cook them. The festival is a celebration of Shediac's lobster fishing heritage, and Lynn is amazed by the delicious lobster dishes served there. She samples a lobster roll made with freshly cooked lobster meat, mayo, celery, and lettuce on a hot dog bun, which is a local delicacy.
Next, Lynn visits a lobster pound, where the freshly caught lobsters are stored until they are sold. She learns about the process of harvesting lobsters, which involves traps and boats, and the importance of sustainable fishing practices. Lynn also talks to a lobster biologist, who explains the anatomy of a lobster and how it has evolved over millions of years.
After her visit to the lobster pound, Lynn goes on a lobster boat to catch some lobsters herself. She learns how to bait traps, which bait to use, and the best time of day to catch lobsters. She is thrilled when the fishermen pull up their traps and she sees her first live lobster.
Back on shore, Lynn meets a local chef who shows her how to cook lobster. The chef demonstrates how to steam a lobster by placing it in boiling water for 15 minutes, explaining that this method results in the best flavor and texture. Lynn also learns how to crack open a lobster and extract the meat, which requires some skill.
At the end of the episode, Lynn prepares a lobster feast for the fishermen and their families. She makes lobster rolls, grilled lobster with garlic butter, and lobster bisque. The fishermen are impressed by her cooking skills and enjoy the meal. Lynn feels grateful for the experience and proud to have learned how to catch and cook lobsters.
Overall, the first episode of Pitchin' In is an engaging and informative introduction to the show. Lynn Crawford's enthusiasm and curiosity about food are contagious, and she does an excellent job of showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Shediac. The episode is visually stunning, with breathtaking shots of the sea, the lobster boats, and the lobster pound. The pacing is well-balanced, with enough time dedicated to each aspect of the lobster fishing industry, from harvesting to cooking. The Lobster episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in seafood, cooking, or travel.