Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations Season 5 Episode 18 Oaxaca

In season 5, episode 18 of Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations, host Andrew Zimmern takes viewers on a culinary journey to Oaxaca, Mexico. This vibrant region is known for its rich history, colorful markets, and unique cuisine, which draws inspiration from indigenous ingredients and flavors.

The episode begins with Zimmern exploring the iconic Mercado de la Merced, one of the oldest and largest markets in Mexico. Here, he immerses himself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the bustling market, sampling a variety of local delicacies like tlayudas (large, crispy tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and meats) and chapulines (spicy roasted grasshoppers).

Next, Zimmern heads to the hills outside of Oaxaca, where he discovers the ancient practice of mezcal production. Mezcal is a type of alcohol similar to tequila, made from a different type of agave plant and with a unique smoky flavor. Zimmern meets a local mezcal maker who walks him through the traditional process of roasting, fermenting, and distilling the agave to produce this beloved spirit.

The episode then takes viewers to the coastal town of Huatulco, where Zimmern explores the local seafood scene. He visits a bustling seafood market and samples fresh catches like snapper and octopus prepared in a variety of ways, from simple ceviche to spicy grilled dishes. He also tries some more unusual seafood offerings, like sea urchin and aguachile (a fiery shrimp cocktail).

Moving back to the city of Oaxaca, Zimmern dives deeper into the region's iconic cuisine. He visits a restaurant that specializes in mole, a complex sauce made from dozens of ingredients like chiles, nuts, and fruits. Zimmern learns about the different varieties of mole and how they're used in traditional dishes like mole negro (made with chocolate and spices) and mole amarillito (with almonds and yellow chiles).

Finally, Zimmern ends the episode with a visit to a local family's kitchen, where he learns how to make traditional Oaxacan tamales. These savory treats are made with masa (corn dough) and filled with ingredients like chicken, pork, or vegetables. Zimmern watches as his hosts expertly wrap the tamales and steam them to perfection, before sitting down to enjoy the tasty dish with a side of salsa and fresh avocado.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern showcases the rich culinary heritage of Oaxaca and highlights the unique flavors and ingredients that make it a food lover's paradise. From the pungent mezcal to the fiery chiles, viewers will not only learn about the food of Oaxaca but also gain a deeper appreciation for this vibrant region of Mexico and its people.