Simply Ming Season 14 Episode 2 Lidia Bastianich

In this episode of Simply Ming, host and award-winning chef Ming Tsai welcomes world-renowned chef, author, and television personality Lidia Bastianich into his kitchen. Lidia is a pioneer in the modern Italian culinary scene and popularly known for her PBS television series, 'Lidia's Kitchen.'

Ming and Lidia share their memories of their first meeting and discuss the evolution of their friendship over the years. The two chefs get started with their cooking, putting their spin on traditional Italian dishes. Lidia shows how to make a delicious dish of stuffed mushrooms with sausage and cheese, while Ming prepares a tantalizing, spicy broccoli rabe with butterfly shrimp.

As the dishes come together, Ming and Lidia chat about their culinary journeys and how their passion for food has driven their respective careers. Lidia talks about her experience cooking with her grandmother and learning the classic techniques of Italian cuisine. Ming shares his own story about growing up in his family's restaurant and how it inspired him to become a chef.

The conversation turns towards the importance of cooking with fresh ingredients and seasonal produce. Lidia elaborates on the importance of sustainability and how it has become a vital part of her cooking philosophy. She emphasizes the benefits of using local ingredients from farmers' markets and supporting small businesses.

As the episode continues, Ming and Lidia trade tips and tricks while they put the finishing touches on their dishes. They sit down to enjoy their creations, reflecting on the joys and challenges of being a chef. They also discuss their mutual goal of inspiring young people to learn to cook and the value of sharing traditional recipes with future generations.

In the final moments of the show, Lidia and Ming reminisce about their shared memories and how they have grown as chefs and friends. They come away from this experience with a newfound respect and appreciation for one another's work and legacy in the culinary world.

Overall, the episode is a brilliant showcase of two iconic chefs coming together to honor their culinary roots while forging ahead with innovative and fresh takes on classic dishes. Fans of both Lidia and Ming will appreciate the insights and lighthearted banter between the two as they share their love of cooking with viewers.