Ep 12. Spleen Soup and Sriracha

In season 13 episode 12 of Bizarre Foods, host Andrew Zimmern travels to Taiwan to explore the unique cuisines and food culture of the island. The episode is titled "Spleen Soup and Sriracha", which gives viewers a hint of the exotic and unusual foods that Zimmern encounters on this journey.

The episode starts off in the capital city of Taipei, where Zimmern meets up with a local food blogger and enthusiast. Together they venture into the streets to try some of the city's most famous dishes, including stinky tofu and oyster omelets. Zimmern is pleasantly surprised by the unique flavors and textures of each dish, and he explains to viewers why these dishes are such a popular and important part of Taiwanese food culture.

Next, Zimmern heads to the mountainous interior of the country to try some dishes that are even more exotic and bizarre. He meets with a group of hunters who have just caught a wild boar, which they offer to cook for him. Zimmern eagerly accepts and watches as the hunters expertly prepare the boar, using every part of the animal to create a range of dishes. This includes a soup made from the boar's spleen, which is considered a delicacy in Taiwan. Zimmern tries a spoonful of the soup and is impressed by the intense, umami flavor.

The episode continues with Zimmern exploring the night markets of Taiwan, known for their lively atmosphere and amazing street food. He tries a variety of dishes, from crispy fried chicken to grilled squid, and even some desserts made from fresh fruit and shaved ice. Along the way, he also samples some of Taiwan's famous hot sauces, including the popular Sriracha sauce that is made with a blend of chili peppers, garlic, and vinegar. Zimmern explains how this sauce has become a staple condiment in Taiwanese cuisine, and he even visits a local factory where it is made.

The final segment of the episode takes Zimmern deep into the mountains to visit a group of indigenous people known as the Bunun tribe. Here, he learns about their unique food traditions and tries several dishes that have been passed down through generations. This includes a dish made from wild vegetables that are picked fresh from the forest and cooked with a special kind of bamboo. Zimmern is impressed by the flavors and textures of these dishes, and he explains to viewers how the Bunun people have managed to maintain their food culture despite modernization and outside influences.

Overall, "Spleen Soup and Sriracha" is another fascinating episode of Bizarre Foods that showcases the unique and diverse cuisines of Taiwan. Andrew Zimmern is an excellent guide, taking viewers on a culinary journey that is both educational and entertaining. The episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in international travel and food culture, and it's sure to satisfy even the most adventurous foodies out there.