The French Chef with Julia Child Season 3 Episode 18 The French Chef: Beef Gets Stewed Two Ways

The French Chef with Julia Child Season 3 Episode 18: The French Chef: Beef Gets Stewed Two Ways

In this episode of The French Chef, Julia Child demonstrates how to prepare beef stew, a classic French dish that is both flavorful and easy to make. She shows viewers how to cook beef stew two different ways, using different cuts of meat and cooking methods to create two distinct but equally delicious versions of this comfort food favorite.

After introducing the ingredients and tools needed for the recipe, Julia begins by cooking beef stew with cubed chuck roast, a tougher cut of meat that requires a longer cooking time to become tender. She browns the meat in hot oil on the stovetop, then simmers it in a flavorful broth with vegetables and aromatics for several hours, until the meat is fork-tender and the broth has thickened to a rich, savory sauce. She also shares tips for adjusting the seasoning and thickness of the stew to suit personal taste preferences.

Next, Julia demonstrates how to prepare a second version of beef stew, this time using boneless beef short ribs. This cut of meat is more tender and flavorful than chuck roast, but also more expensive, so Julia suggests using it for a special occasion or when entertaining guests. She starts by searing the short ribs in a pan to create a golden crust, then adds them to a pot along with vegetables, herbs, and broth. She makes a few adjustments to the seasoning and cooking time to accommodate the shorter cooking time for the short ribs, and the result is a tender, flavorful beef stew with a slightly different texture and taste than the first version.

Throughout the episode, Julia shares insights and tips for cooking with beef, including how to choose the right cut of meat for different recipes, how to handle and prepare beef safely and efficiently, and how to adjust cooking times and temperatures for optimal results. She also shares some of her favorite accompaniments for beef stew, such as mashed potatoes, crusty bread, and a glass of red wine.

As always, Julia's warm and engaging personality shines through in this episode, as she shows viewers how to create a delicious and satisfying meal with simple ingredients and techniques. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner looking to expand your culinary skills, The French Chef: Beef Gets Stewed Two Ways is sure to inspire and delight.