Ep 1. Moose Fat & Muskrat

In season 12 episode 1 of the popular travel and food show Bizarre Foods, host Andrew Zimmern travels to the great Northwoods of Minnesota to explore the unique and unusual culinary traditions of the region. The episode is titled "Moose Fat & Muskrat" and promises to offer viewers a glimpse into some truly quirky and adventurous eating habits.

The episode opens with Zimmern driving through the snow-covered forests of northern Minnesota, talking about his excitement for the food he is about to discover. He explains that this region is home to some of the hardiest and most resourceful people in America, who have learned to survive in the harsh environment by making use of everything the land has to offer.

The first stop on Zimmern's journey is a small town where he meets a family who make their living trapping and hunting. They introduce him to muskrat, a rodent that is considered a delicacy in the region. Despite its unappetizing appearance, Zimmern is impressed by the taste and texture of the animal, which he describes as a cross between duck and rabbit. He watches as the family expertly prepares the muskrat, roasting it over an open fire and serving it with a variety of traditional side dishes.

Next, Zimmern travels to a local butcher shop, where he learns about the importance of moose in the diet of northern Minnesotans. He is fascinated by the process of breaking down a whole moose carcass and is particularly intrigued by the fat, which the locals consider a valuable source of both nutrition and flavor. Zimmern tastes some raw moose fat and is surprised by how mild and buttery it tastes, unlike any other animal fat he has tried before.

The episode continues with Zimmern exploring other unique dishes of the region, such as wild rice hotdish and Finnish pasties, a type of meat pie brought to the area by early settlers. He also meets with a group of Ojibwe Indians, who share their traditional frybread with him and explain the cultural significance of the dish.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern emphasizes the importance of understanding and appreciating the food traditions of different cultures. He marvels at the resourcefulness and creativity of the people he meets, who have learned to make the most of the ingredients available to them.

In the final scene of the episode, Zimmern sits around a fire with some of the locals he has met on his journey, sharing stories and reflecting on his experiences. He stresses the importance of preserving these unique food traditions for future generations and encourages viewers to embrace the diversity of food cultures around the world.

Overall, "Moose Fat & Muskrat" is a fascinating look at the wild and wonderful cuisine of northern Minnesota. With its mix of adventure, education, and entertainment, this episode is sure to delight both foodies and travel enthusiasts alike.