Ep 1. Perfectly Priced Parisian

Melissa d'Arabian hosts Ten Dollar Dinners, a cooking show focused on creating tasty dishes on a budget of $10 or less. In the first episode of season 1, named Perfectly Priced Parisian, Melissa takes viewers on a culinary journey to France.

Melissa begins by shopping for ingredients at her local farmers market, where she finds fresh produce at affordable prices. She explains that this is the key to creating meals on a budget - using what's in season and locally available.

The first dish Melissa prepares is a French onion soup, a classic dish that can be intimidating for home cooks. However, Melissa breaks down the steps and demonstrates how easy it can be to make at home. She explains that the key to a great onion soup is to caramelize the onions slowly, which brings out their natural sweetness and deepens their flavor. Melissa also shares a trick for making croutons from stale bread, which are a must-have topping for the soup.

Next, Melissa tackles a main course - a steak with a blue cheese sauce. She explains that steak can be an expensive cut of meat, but by buying a cheaper option and using it in a flavorful sauce, it can be transformed into a gourmet meal. Melissa cooks the steak to perfection and prepares the sauce using blue cheese, cream, and a few simple seasonings. The result is a rich and decadent dish that's perfect for a special occasion.

To accompany the steak, Melissa prepares a side of roasted root vegetables. She explains that root vegetables are another affordable option that can be used in a variety of dishes. Melissa roasts a mix of carrots, parsnips, and turnips with herbs and olive oil, creating a flavorful and healthy side dish.

For dessert, Melissa makes a French classic - crème brûlée. This creamy dessert may seem difficult, but Melissa demonstrates an easy technique for making it at home. She explains that the key to a successful crème brûlée is to cook it slowly in a water bath, which ensures a smooth and creamy texture. Melissa also shows how to caramelize the sugar on top using a culinary torch or broiler, creating the signature crispy topping.

Throughout the episode, Melissa shares tips and tricks for cooking on a budget, like using cheaper cuts of meat, shopping at farmers markets, and using ingredients creatively. She also emphasizes the importance of planning ahead and cooking in bulk, which can save time and money in the long run.

Overall, Perfectly Priced Parisian is a delicious and informative episode that showcases the best of French cuisine on a budget. Melissa's warm and knowledgeable approach makes the dishes accessible and achievable for home cooks, while still retaining the sophistication and elegance of classic French cooking.