Ep 11. International Flavors

Martin Yan's Hong Kong is a television show that explores the cultural and culinary wonders of Hong Kong. Season 1, episode 11 is entitled "International Flavors" and features Martin Yan as he takes viewers on a journey through the diverse range of international cuisines that can be found in this vibrant city.

The episode begins with Martin Yan visiting a Mexican restaurant where he watches the chef prepare a classic dish of tacos al pastor. Martin learns about the importance of marinating the pork for this dish and also observes the special technique used to cook the meat on a vertical spit. Next, Martin visits a French bakery where he samples some delicious croissants and learns about the importance of using high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques in baking.

Moving on to Indian cuisine, Martin visits a popular restaurant where he watches the chef prepare a variety of flavorful dishes. Martin observes the use of traditional spices like cumin and turmeric in the preparation of chicken curry and learns about the importance of balancing flavors such as sweet, sour, and spicy in Indian cooking.

Martin then heads to a Japanese restaurant where he learns about the art of sushi-making. The chef demonstrates how to prepare different types of sushi rolls and shares tips on how to choose the best ingredients for sushi.

The episode concludes with Martin visiting a Spanish tapas bar where he samples a variety of small plates including shrimp sautéed in garlic and olive oil, sautéed mushrooms with sherry vinegar, and patatas bravas (spicy fried potatoes). Martin learns about the tradition of sharing small plates in Spanish cuisine and the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Throughout the episode, Martin Yan provides commentary on the cultural and historical significance of each cuisine, as well as providing helpful tips and tricks for viewers who may want to try their hand at cooking international dishes at home. The episode showcases the diversity of Hong Kong and the city's status as a global dining destination, while also celebrating the unique flavors and techniques that make each cuisine so special.