Simply Ming Season 15 Episode 7 Rick Bayless

In this episode of Simply Ming, host Ming Tsai welcomes Rick Bayless, the renowned American chef known for his expertise in Mexican cuisine. Bayless is the owner of several successful restaurants in the United States, including Frontera Grill and Topolobampo in Chicago, and is a frequent television personality and cookbook author.

The episode begins with Ming and Rick catching up and discussing their shared passion for innovative cuisine. Ming is excited to learn more about Bayless's approach to Mexican cooking and the inspiration behind his dishes. As they chat, the two chefs prepare a range of delicious dishes, highlighting the bold flavors and vibrant ingredients of Mexican cuisine.

The first dish they create is a Yucatan-style ceviche, featuring tender pieces of fish marinated in citrus juices, habanero peppers, and fresh herbs. Ming is impressed by the layers of flavor in the dish, which perfectly balances tangy, spicy, and bright flavors.

Next, the chefs whip up a unique take on tamales, using a flavorful masa made with pasilla chiles and cumin. Ming and Rick fill the tamales with tender pulled pork and top them with a bright salsa verde, creating a complex and satisfying dish.

As they cook, Ming and Rick share stories about their culinary careers and the challenges and rewards of running successful restaurants. They also discuss the importance of embracing diversity in the culinary world and creating dishes that reflect different cultures and traditions.

The final dish of the episode is a hearty and comforting black bean soup, made with homemade chorizo, bacon, and an array of fragrant spices. Ming and Rick serve the soup with crispy tortilla chips and a dollop of tangy crema, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Throughout the episode, Ming and Rick showcase their passion for creative and innovative cuisine, while also highlighting the importance of traditional ingredients and techniques. The episode is a celebration of Mexican cuisine and the rich flavors and ingredients that make it so special.