I agree that most shows are geared towards entertainment and not technical cooking--but they are not geared towards professionals either--mainstream america dictates it all. Their are some shows that are definitely better than the rest. I enjoy Iron Chef for it's creativity and the stamina that these chefs have -- but I have to say that for the show, yes the entertainment value can be fun too. Sara Moulton's Prime Time show (not the one she's been doing forever) can be interesting--but more to watch what other chefs are doing and thinking. Definitely not a "must-see" everynight, but occasionaly, it's fine.
Yes, Martha Stewart, Sara's regular show, Ready,Set Cook and some of the other's are definitely not for everyone--but I know "non-cooks" that watch them religiously to further their cooking experience. Having a sister who knows how to microwave, but rarely does anything more--I get a kick out of watching her get inspired because of something she's seen on TV. The poor girl, she's never done any yeast-based anything before--got inspired and started off with a difficult recipe and did fine! Not bad for my baby sis!
Then there are the shows like Gordon Elliot's Door Knock Dinners--now what's the deal with that!!
For now, I selectively choose what I watch--IRron Chef, old classics such as Julia Child, and of course, Discover's Great Chefs. And I'm glad that now there's a little wider range to choose from than there was 10 years ago!  |