Ep 9. Five From France

Semi-Homemade Cooking with Sandra Lee is a popular cooking show on the Food Network that focuses on creating delicious dishes with partially pre-made ingredients. Season 15 episode 9, titled "Five From France," features host Sandra Lee showcasing some of her favorite French-inspired recipes.

In this episode, Lee takes viewers on a culinary journey to France, sharing five delicious recipes that are perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying a cozy night at home. The dishes she prepares include a cheese and herb tart, a hearty beef stew, a savory quiche, a flavorful fish dish, and a decadent dessert.

To begin the show, Lee starts by preparing her cheese and herb tart. Using a combination of partially pre-made pie crust and fresh ingredients like goat cheese, thyme, and garlic, she creates a dish that's both easy to make and absolutely delicious. This appetizer is the perfect way to start any French-inspired meal, and is sure to impress guests with its flaky crust and creamy filling.

Next, Lee moves on to her hearty beef stew, which is made using a combination of beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. She shares tips for browning the beef properly and creating a rich, satisfying stew that's perfect for chilly nights. This dish is a classic French recipe that's been enjoyed for centuries, and Lee gives it her own unique twist by using partially pre-made ingredients to simplify the cooking process.

The third recipe Lee prepares is a savory quiche made with mushrooms, cheese, and bacon. She demonstrates how to prepare a partially pre-made pie crust and fill it with a mixture of eggs, cream, and a variety of tasty ingredients. This quiche is perfect for brunch or a light dinner, and can be easily adapted to accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences.

For her fourth dish, Lee makes a flavorful fish dish that's easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Using a combination of partially pre-made ingredients like frozen fish and canned tomatoes, she creates a dish that's both healthy and delicious. This recipe is a great way to incorporate more seafood into your diet and enjoy the bold, bright flavors of French cuisine.

Finally, Lee concludes the episode by preparing a decadent chocolate dessert that's sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Using prepared pie crust and a combination of chocolate, cocoa powder, and cream, she creates a rich, indulgent dessert that's perfect for special occasions or just a cozy night in.

Overall, "Five From France" is a fantastic episode of Semi-Homemade Cooking with Sandra Lee that showcases some of the best flavors of French cuisine in an approachable, easy-to-make format. From appetizers to desserts, there's something here for everyone to enjoy, and Lee's creative use of partially pre-made ingredients makes these dishes accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Whether you're a French food aficionado or simply looking for some new inspiration in the kitchen, this episode is sure to satisfy.