Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa d'Arabian Season 4 Episode 12 Takeout Fakeout

Melissa d'Arabian’s show Ten Dollar Dinners is a must-watch for food enthusiasts seeking practical recipes that won't break the bank. In season 4, episode 12, titled Takeout Fakeout, the talented chef explores the world of takeout food and creates budget-friendly versions that can be easily whipped up at home.

The episode begins with Melissa sharing her love for takeout food. However, she acknowledges that relying too heavily on restaurant meals can quickly become expensive. To solve this problem, Melissa shows viewers how to make some popular takeout dishes from scratch, using home-cooked ingredients that are readily available.

To start, Melissa prepares her Foolproof Sesame Chicken recipe, which is a delicious alternative to the ubiquitous takeout version. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and comes with a good balance of sweet and savory flavors. She also shares her recipe for Vegetable Fried Rice, a staple side dish that’s incredibly easy to make with some basic pantry staples.

Next up is the Korean BBQ Beef Bowl, which Melissa recreates using affordable cuts of beef, such as sirloin or flank steak. The beef is marinated in a sweet and savory Korean-style sauce and served over rice with a side of steamed vegetables. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Melissa also prepares her recipe for Egg Drop Soup, a comforting dish that’s often enjoyed in Chinese restaurants. With a few simple ingredients, including chicken broth, soy sauce, and green onions, she demonstrates how to make this dish in a matter of minutes.

Last but not least, Melissa shares her take on the classic American cheeseburger. She skips the drive-thru and shows viewers how to make a delicious and juicy burger at home, with all the trimmings. This meal is not only easy to make but also customizable, as Melissa offers some suggestions for toppings that can suit any taste.

Throughout the episode, Melissa emphasizes the importance of using fresh ingredients and being creative in the kitchen. She also shares her tips on how to stretch your dollar when shopping for groceries and how to make the most out of leftovers.

Overall, Takeout Fakeout is an excellent episode that encourages viewers to try their hand at making their favorite takeout dishes at home. With Melissa’s guidance, viewers can recreate these mouth-watering meals without breaking the bank, showcasing the real potential of home cooking.