Ep 9. Puerto Rico

Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern takes viewers on a gastronomic adventure as he travels to different countries and regions to sample the local cuisine, no matter how unusual or bizarre it may seem. In season 4 episode 9, titled Puerto Rico, Andrew explores the flavors of this beautiful Caribbean island.

Puerto Rican cuisine is a unique blend of African, Spanish, and indigenous Taino cultures, and Andrew sets out to uncover the depth and diversity of the island's food scene. The first stop on his culinary tour is the famous Mercado de Santurce, a sprawling indoor market in San Juan. Here, he meets local food vendors and tries some of the classic Puerto Rican dishes such as mofongo, a dish made with mashed plantains and filled with various meats, seafood, or vegetables.

Next, Andrew ventures outside the city to the rolling hills of the central region of Cayey, where he visits a farm to learn about the traditional methods of coffee production. He samples some of the finest coffee Puerto Rico has to offer while enjoying the panoramic views of the lush mountain landscape.

Andrew then heads to the town of Orocovis, where he is invited to a traditional pig roast called lechonera. This is a popular Puerto Rican feast where a whole roasted pig is served with rice and beans and other side dishes. The pig is often marinated for hours with a blend of herbs and spices that give it a unique flavor and tenderness, and Andrew is eager to try it.

After the lechonera, Andrew takes a trip to the southern coast of Puerto Rico to visit La Parguera, a small seaside town known for its fishing industry. Here, he samples some of the freshest seafood he's ever tasted, including lobster, snapper, and conch. Andrew is amazed at how the locals prepare and cook the seafood, creating mouth-watering dishes full of unique flavors and spices.

The last stop on Andrew's culinary adventure is in the western region of Puerto Rico, where he visits a traditional bakery that specializes in pan sobao, a Puerto Rican bread made with lard that has a crusty exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Andrew learns about the history and culture of the bakery and watches as the bakers create their delicious bread.

Throughout the episode, Andrew also showcases the beautiful natural scenery of Puerto Rico, including its beaches, mountains, and forests. He meets with locals who share their stories and traditions and introduces viewers to the rich history and culture of the island. Overall, the Puerto Rico episode of Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern is a fascinating exploration of a unique and diverse cuisine in a beautiful and vibrant location.