Ep 1. Asia

In the first episode of Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern, the host travels to Asia in search of some of the most unique and intriguing culinary experiences the continent has to offer. Throughout the episode, Zimmern explores various Asian countries such as Taiwan, Vietnam, and Japan, immersing himself in the local cultures and cuisine.

The episode kicks off with Zimmern visiting a bustling night market in Taipei, Taiwan, where he samples a variety of street foods, from stinky tofu to oyster omelettes. He then ventures to a snake alley where he watches a live snake being prepared for cooking and gets a chance to try it himself. The reptilian delicacy is served alongside snake blood and bile, which Zimmern describes as "intense and overwhelming."

Moving on to Vietnam, Zimmern tastes Vietnamese pho for the first time and raves about the "complex and fragrant" flavors of the soup. He also tries his hand at preparing banh mi sandwiches, a staple of Vietnamese cuisine. Throughout his time in Vietnam, Zimmern is struck by the "unfamiliar and unexpected" flavors he encounters.

In Japan, Zimmern experiences traditional Japanese tea service in a serene tea house and explores the bustling Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo. At the market, he samples some of the freshest seafood imaginable, including uni (sea urchin roe), a prized delicacy. He also witnesses the preparation of fugu (pufferfish), which contains a deadly toxin if not prepared correctly, making it a risky delicacy to eat.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern showcases his adventurous spirit and willingness to try anything once. He notes that the most surprising aspect of his experiences in Asia was the emphasis on texture, with many foods emphasizing crunchiness, chewiness, or sliminess. He also remarks on the importance of eating with locals, which allowed him to fully appreciate the cultural significance and history behind each dish.

Overall, Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern season 1 episode 1 offers a fascinating glimpse into the varied and vibrant food cultures of Asia. From the bustling night markets of Taiwan to the serene teahouses of Japan, Zimmern's travels provide a window into a world of exotic and unexpected flavors.