Bizarre Foods America Season 6 Episode 17 Finland

In the 17th episode of season 6 of Bizarre Foods America, host Andrew Zimmern travels to Finland, a country with a unique culinary landscape that has evolved over centuries due to its harsh climate and geographical location. Zimmern explores the traditional foods and modern innovations that define Finnish cuisine, from reindeer and bear meat to fermented fish and foraged mushrooms.

Zimmern begins his journey in the capital city of Helsinki, where he discovers a vibrant food culture that combines traditional meat dishes with contemporary techniques and flavors. He visits a gourmet food market that showcases the best of Finnish cuisine, sampling local delicacies such as smoked salmon and wild mushroom soup. Zimmern also meets with a chef who is taking Finnish cuisine in new directions, exploring the possibilities of using locally sourced seaweed and reindeer moss in his dishes.

Continuing his journey, Zimmern travels to the Lapland region of Finland, home to the indigenous Sámi people and their rich culinary traditions. He joins a Sámi reindeer herder on his farm, learning about the sustainable and humane methods used to raise these wild animals in the harsh Arctic environment. Zimmern then tries his hand at making smoked reindeer meat, a staple of Sámi cuisine that has been enjoyed for centuries.

Moving on, Zimmern travels to the town of Kemi, where he discovers the bizarre and fascinating tradition of ice fishing. He joins local fishermen on the frozen Baltic Sea, drilling holes in the ice and catching fresh fish that are instantly transformed into a delicious meal over an open fire. Zimmern also learns about the importance of sauna culture in Finnish society, visiting a traditional wood-fired sauna and experiencing the health benefits of this time-honored practice.

Throughout his journey, Zimmern meets with local experts and chefs who share their insights into the unique flavors and ingredients of Finnish cuisine. He discovers that Finnish food culture emphasizes freshness, simplicity, and sustainability, and is rooted in a deep respect for the natural world and its resources.

Bizarre Foods America season 6 episode 17 is a fascinating and enlightening exploration of Finnish food culture, offering a glimpse into a culinary tradition that is both ancient and innovative. Zimmern's journey through the snowy landscapes and frozen waters of Finland is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of this remarkable country, and showcases the rich and diverse flavors that can be found in even the most challenging of environments.