Ep 4. Cuisine of the Equator

In A Taste of History season 11 episode 4, viewers are taken on a culinary journey through the equator to explore the unique flavors and ingredients found in the countries that cross this imaginary line. Host, Walter Staib, shares his love for exploration and history as he travels to Ecuador, Colombia, and Kenya to discover the secrets behind their signature dishes.

The episode starts in Ecuador, where Walter visits a cacao plantation to learn about the origin and cultivation of one of the world's most beloved ingredients. With the help of local guides, he also explores the bustling markets of Quito to taste unique fruits and vegetables that are exclusive to the region. Along the way, he meets talented chefs who share their passion for creating dishes that reflect the diversity of Ecuadorian culture and history.

Next, the show takes viewers to Colombia, where Walter continues his exploration of equatorial cuisine. He visits a coffee plantation to learn about the influence of geography and climate on coffee production and taste-tests some of the best coffee in the world. He also discovers the diversity of Colombian cuisine, from the spicy flavors of Caribbean cuisine to the hearty dishes of the Andes. In Cartagena, Walter visits a local bakery to learn about traditional Colombian bread and pastry making techniques.

Finally, the show ends in Kenya, where Walter experiences the unique cuisine of East Africa. He visits a spice market in Mombasa to taste and learn about the incredible array of local spices and herbs that are used to transform simple ingredients into mouth-watering dishes. He also visits a Maasai tribe to learn about their traditional way of life and to try their famous barbecue meat.

Walter's love for food and history is contagious, and viewers will appreciate the care and detail he puts into each episode. The vibrant colors and landscapes of the equator are captured beautifully, making it even more difficult to resist the urge to pack a bag and book a trip to these destinations. The episode is a wonderful introduction to the cuisine of Ecuador, Colombia, and Kenya and is sure to spark curiosity and interest in these countries' culinary traditions.