Ep 9. Mexico

In Bizarre Foods season 1 episode 9, host Andrew Zimmern takes viewers on a journey to Mexico, exploring the traditional and unconventional dishes the country has to offer. The episode begins with Zimmern trying the classic Mexican dish of pozole, a hearty stew made with hominy and pork. He then moves on to try cactus fruit, an ingredient commonly used in Mexican cuisine.

Zimmern also ventures to Mexico City's Mercado de San Juan, a market that sells a variety of exotic meats. Here, he samples everything from ant eggs to iguana, a delicacy served in the south of the country. He also tries chapulines, toasted grasshoppers that are often used as a topping for tacos.

Next, Zimmern travels to Oaxaca, a region known for its mole sauce. He visits a family-run restaurant where he gets to see how mole is made and even helps grind ingredients for the dish. He samples several different varieties of mole, including mole negro, which is made with chocolate and has a rich, smoky flavor.

In addition to trying traditional dishes, Zimmern also explores some of the more unusual foods that can be found in Mexico. He visits a market in Mexico City that sells all sorts of insects, from crickets to worms. Zimmern tries escamoles, or ant larvae, which are often referred to as "Mexican caviar." He also samples jumiles, a type of bug that is often used as a seasoning in central Mexico.

The episode also includes a visit to Tijuana, where Zimmern tries a dish called "revolution stew." This hearty dish is made with a variety of meats, including beef, pork, and chicken, and is often served at celebrations and fiestas. Zimmern also tries pulque, a fermented drink made from the sap of the agave plant.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern speaks with locals and learns about the history and culture behind the dishes he's trying. He also showcases the vibrant and colorful street food scene that can be found in Mexico, from tacos to elote (grilled corn on the cob). Overall, the episode provides a fascinating look into the diverse and delicious cuisine of Mexico.