Read This Before Binging The Bear

Taste the Screen

We'll be ringing in the new season with a plate of the famous Family Meal Spaghetti. Peep the recipe here:

1lb spaghetti

1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil

10 whole peeled garlic cloves

handful of basil

(2) 28oz cans of San Marzano tomatoes

salt and pepper to taste

This recipe is from Michael’s card, not the version Carmy makes at the end of “The Bear.” Salt the water like the sea for noth versions. To make Carmy’s version, add red pepper flakes to the garlic mixture for some heat. Then, halve an onion and cook it cut side down in butter until lightly browned to add depth of flavor. Let it simmer in the sauce, then remove the onion before mixing in the spaghetti.

Stoke the fire of inspiration 

Create a Viewing Experience

• Foodie Marathon: Create a themed food night by preparing dishes inspired by the show. For instance, on the night you watch the episode featuring the iconic family meal spaghetti, cook that exact dish. Another night, you might try your hand at classic Chicago-style sandwiches, adding to the authenticity of the experience. Pairing your meals with episodes that highlight those dishes enhances the sensory experience.

• Discuss and Digest: After each episode, take a moment to discuss the characters’ development and the kitchen dynamics with your viewing companions. This adds depth to your experience and helps you catch details you might have missed. For example, after an intense episode, you might talk about Carmy’s leadership style or Sydney’s challenges in the kitchen, leading to engaging conversations about the culinary world and beyond.

• Spot the Easter Eggs: Look for subtle nods to real culinary legends, famous dishes, and food culture references sprinkled throughout the series. These Easter eggs add an extra layer of fun for food enthusiasts and pop culture buffs alike. For instance, you might spot a particular knife brand favored by top chefs or a dish reminiscent of a famous restaurant’s signature meal.

• Cook-Along Challenges: Make watching interactive by having a cook-along challenge. Try to recreate dishes shown in the episode and see who can get the closest to the real thing. It’s a fun way to engage with the show and improve your culinary skills. For example, after watching an episode that showcases a complex dessert, challenge your friends to recreate it, sharing your results on social media for a bit of friendly competition.

• Create a Viewing Menu: Design a special menu for your binge-watching session. Include appetizers, main courses, and desserts inspired by the show. Each course can be paired with specific episodes, making the meal an event in itself. For example, start with an appetizer of bruschetta, move to a main course of spaghetti, and finish with a dessert of tiramisu, all while watching the corresponding episodes.

• Themed Drinks: Don’t forget the drinks! Create cocktails or mocktails inspired by the series. For example, a “Chicago Mule” or a classic old-fashioned can add to the ambiance. Non-alcoholic options like homemade lemonade or iced tea with unique twists can keep everyone refreshed. Tailor your drink choices to the themes and moods of different episodes for a more immersive experience.

• Comfort and Ambiance: Set the mood with the right ambiance. Dim the lights, get cozy with blankets, and set up your viewing area to mimic a small, intimate restaurant. This will make your binge-watching session feel like a special event. Add candles or soft lighting, and maybe even some background jazz to create the perfect setting.

The Thomas Keller Method for Preparing a Roast Chicken

One of the standout techniques in the culinary world, and subtly showcased in The Bear, is the Thomas Keller method for preparing a roast chicken. This technique is renowned for producing an incredibly juicy and flavorful roast chicken with perfectly crispy skin. Before you dive into this transformative cooking experience, let’s explore why this method is so revered and how you can bring this culinary magic into your own kitchen.

Thomas Keller’s Roast Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 2-3 pounds)

• Kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 2 teaspoons minced thyme (optional)

• Unsalted butter

• Dijon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Rinse the chicken and pat it very dry with paper towels. The key to achieving crispy skin is ensuring the chicken is as dry as possible.

2. Remove the Wishbone: This step is optional but recommended. Using a small, sharp knife, cut around the wishbone located at the neck end of the chicken and gently pull it out. This makes carving the chicken easier after it’s cooked.

3. Seasoning: Generously season the inside of the chicken cavity with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Truss the chicken by tying the legs together with kitchen twine. This helps the chicken cook evenly.

4. Roasting: Place the chicken in a roasting pan or ovenproof skillet. Sprinkle the outside of the chicken generously with kosher salt (about 1 tablespoon) and a bit of pepper. The salt will help to crisp the skin. Optionally, you can sprinkle the minced thyme over the chicken.

5. Cooking: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes. Do not open the oven door during this time as it will release heat. The chicken is done when the juices run clear when you cut between a leg and thigh, or when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).

6. Resting: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bird.

7. Finishing: While the chicken rests, you can prepare a simple sauce. Spread a bit of Dijon mustard over the chicken for a tangy finish, or use the pan drippings to make a light gravy.

8. Serving: Carve the chicken and serve with your favorite sides.

The simplicity of this method highlights the natural flavors of the chicken, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal! 

Thanks TK 

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