Ep 6. One-Pot Meals

In season 2 episode 6 of Simply Laura, titled "One-Pot Meals," Laura Vitale shares some of her favorite recipes for hearty and delicious meals that can be made in just one pot. From classic comfort foods like chili and macaroni and cheese to more exotic dishes like chicken curry and beef stroganoff, Laura shows viewers how to create delicious and satisfying meals without much cleanup.

Throughout the episode, Laura shares tips and tricks for cooking in a single pot, including how to layer ingredients for the best flavor and how to ensure that everything cooks evenly. She also offers suggestions for easy substitutions, so viewers can customize the recipes to their liking.

One featured recipe is a chicken and mushroom one-pot dish that is both flavorful and easy to make. Laura starts by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper, then searing it in a Dutch oven until it's golden brown. She removes the chicken and adds in some sliced mushrooms and garlic, cooking until the mushrooms are tender. Next, she adds in some white wine and chicken broth, along with some fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary. Finally, she adds the chicken back in and simmers the dish until everything is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.

Another recipe that Laura shares is a creamy and comforting macaroni and cheese that can be made entirely in one pot. She starts by cooking the pasta in plenty of salted water, then draining it and setting it aside. In the same pot, she melts some butter and whisking in some flour to make a roux. Next, she adds in some milk, whisking continuously to ensure that the sauce is smooth and creamy. She then seasons the sauce with some dry mustard, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg, before adding in some shredded cheddar cheese and stirring until it's melted and combined. Finally, she adds the cooked pasta back in and stirs until everything is well-coated.

One final dish that Laura demonstrates is a spicy and flavorful beef curry that's perfect for a chilly night. She starts by browning some chunks of beef in a Dutch oven, then removing them and setting them aside. In the same pot, she cooks some onions, garlic, and ginger until they're soft and fragrant. Next, she adds in some curry powder, cumin, coriander, and turmeric, and cooks the spices for a minute or two to release their flavors. She then adds in some canned tomatoes and beef broth, along with the cooked beef, and lets everything simmer until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Throughout the episode, Laura emphasizes the ease and convenience of one-pot meals, noting that they're perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. She also encourages viewers to experiment with different ingredients and flavors, noting that the possibilities for one-pot dishes are almost endless. Whether you're in the mood for something spicy, cheesy, or comforting, Simply Laura has you covered with these delicious and easy one-pot meals.