Ep 9. Peruvian Amazon: Giant Rodents & Biting Ants

In the Peruvian Amazon, Andrew Zimmern embarks on a culinary adventure to explore the local food culture. This time, he is on a mission to try out some of the bizarre and exotic foods that are native to the region. His journey begins with an encounter with one of the biggest rodents in the world - the capybara. Andrew learns about the traditional ways in which the locals hunt and capture capybaras, and how they prepare it for consumption.

Next up, Andrew tries out a dish made with piranha, a freshwater fish that is notorious for its razor-sharp teeth and aggressive behavior. He also visits a local market where he comes across some unusual and strange-looking fruits, including the cacao pod, which is used to make chocolate. Andrew enjoys sampling these exotic fruits and learning about their various uses in Peruvian cuisine.

As he delves deeper into the Peruvian Amazon, Andrew discovers an unusual tradition involving leaf-cutter ants. These ants are known for their ability to strip trees of their leaves in a matter of hours, which can be devastating for the local ecosystem. However, the locals have found a unique way to make use of these ants - they harvest them and roast them until they resemble popcorn. Andrew is hesitant at first, but he eventually musters the courage to try out this bizarre delicacy.

Throughout his journey, Andrew meets with local chefs, food experts, and indigenous tribespeople, who all offer their unique perspective on the food culture in the Peruvian Amazon. He learns about the various challenges that locals face in sourcing ingredients and cooking food in this remote and rugged terrain.

Overall, the episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the diverse and often-unorthodox food culture of the Peruvian Amazon. Andrew's adventurous spirit and willingness to try out new foods make for an engaging and entertaining watch. Whether you are a foodie looking for new culinary thrills or someone interested in learning about the traditions and customs of different cultures, this episode is definitely worth checking out.