Ep 8. Recipe Renovation

Valerie's Home Cooking season 5 episode 8 is named "Recipe Renovation", and it is focused on renovating some of Valerie's favorite recipes such as fried rice and pigs in a blanket.

Valerie starts by using her classic Chinese restaurant style fried rice as a base and adding some extra vegetables and flavorings to make it even more delicious and healthy at the same time. She chops some carrots, celery, and onion and stir-fries them with some garlic and ginger. Then, she adds in some cooked brown rice, cooked chicken, edamame, and peas. She also makes a simple dressing with soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey, which she pours over the fried rice and stirs for an even distribution. The result is a colorful and flavorful dish that is sure to be a hit at any dinner party or family gathering.

Valerie's next recipe renovation is of the classic appetizer, pigs in a blanket. She takes the classic dish and makes it healthier by using turkey sausage instead of traditional pork sausage, and by baking them instead of frying. To add some extra flavor, she also adds some diced jalapenos and sharp cheddar cheese to the filling. She then rolls the sausage and cheese mixture in a pre-made whole wheat dough and bakes it in the oven until it's golden brown and crispy. The result is a healthier version of a classic appetizer that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Valerie also makes a refreshing and healthy drink to go along with these recipe renovations. She starts by making a simple syrup with fresh strawberries and honey. She adds in some basil and lemon juice and blends it all together in a blender to make a flavorful and nutritious strawberry basil lemonade.

Throughout the entire episode, Valerie shares some expert tips on how to renovate recipes without sacrificing taste or nutrition. She also shares some of her favorite kitchen gadgets and ingredients that make cooking and baking more fun and efficient.

Overall, "Recipe Renovation" is a great episode for anyone looking to update their favorite recipes and eat healthier without sacrificing flavor or enjoyment. Valerie's expert tips, fun personality, and delicious recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in your own kitchen.