Ep 5. Chinese Take-Out Night

Spencer's Big 30 is a cooking show that showcases chef Spencer Watts and his quest to prepare delicious meals using only 30 main ingredients. In this season 1 episode 5 entitled "Chinese Take-Out Night," Spencer explores the art of Chinese cuisine, recreating popular take-out dishes in his own unique style.

As the episode begins, Spencer welcomes viewers to his kitchen, sharing his excitement for Chinese cuisine and his determination to elevate classic take-out dishes beyond their usual flavors. He explains that Chinese food is often misunderstood as being complicated to make, but he intends to debunk this myth by offering simple yet incredible recipes that can easily be prepared at home.

The episode kicks off with Spencer's take on a beloved Chinese appetizer, the Egg Roll. He demonstrates how to make this crispy delight from scratch, teaching viewers how to roll the perfect egg roll wrapper and stuff it with a delectable filling of cabbage, carrots, and ground pork. His secret ingredient takes this dish to another level, leaving a tantalizing aroma lingering in the kitchen.

Next up on the menu is a popular Chinese take-out staple, Sweet and Sour Pork. Spencer shares his recipe for a tangy and succulent sauce, perfectly balancing the sweet and sour flavors. With his signature twist, he adds a generous amount of pineapple chunks to give the dish a tropical kick. Spencer emphasizes the importance of cooking the pork just right, ensuring it remains tender and juicy after being coated in the flavorsome sauce.

Moving on, Spencer introduces viewers to the art of making Mongolian Beef, a dish known for its rich flavors and tender meat. He skillfully marinates strips of beef in a combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, infusing them with intense flavors. Spencer then stir-fries the beef along with vibrant bell peppers and onions, creating a visually appealing dish that is as delicious as it looks.

As the show progresses, Spencer tackles the challenge of making General Tso's Chicken. This iconic dish is often deemed too complex to recreate at home, but Spencer simplifies the process, breaking it down into easy-to-follow steps. He expertly fries bite-sized chicken pieces until they turn golden and crispy, and then coats them in a sweet and spicy sauce that contrasts perfectly with the crunchy texture. The result is a delightful explosion of flavors that will rival any take-out version.

Lastly, Spencer concludes the episode with one of the most requested dishes in Chinese cuisine, Sesame Chicken. He starts by marinating bite-sized chicken pieces in a delectable blend of ingredients, ensuring they are infused with flavor. Spencer then coats the chicken in cornstarch and pan-fries it until crispy, before tossing it in a mouthwatering sesame sauce. To add the finishing touch, he sprinkles freshly toasted sesame seeds over the dish, creating a visual and flavorful feast.

Throughout the episode, Spencer's enthusiasm for Chinese cuisine shines through. He continuously encourages viewers to step out of their comfort zones and try their hand at making these classic take-out dishes at home. With his easy-to-follow instructions, helpful tips, and unique flavor combinations, Spencer proves that creating restaurant-quality Chinese food is within everyone's reach.

Join Spencer in this exciting episode of Spencer's Big 30, as he takes you on a journey to redefine the flavors of Chinese take-out night, leaving you inspired to recreate these beloved dishes in your own kitchen. Whether you are a novice or an experienced cook, this episode promises to provide valuable insights and mouthwatering recipes that will transport your taste buds to the heart of China.