Ep 5. Madrid

In "Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations" season 6 episode 5, host Andrew Zimmern explores the culinary delights of Madrid, Spain. Madrid is a city with a rich history and culture, and its food is no exception. Andrew takes viewers on a journey through the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with their own unique culinary offerings.

The episode begins with a visit to a traditional mercado, or market, where Andrew samples some of the region's best-known specialties, including jamón ibérico, a type of cured ham made from acorn-fed pigs, and chorizo, a type of spicy sausage. Andrew also stops by a stall selling mushrooms, a popular ingredient in many Spanish dishes. From there, he visits a tapas bar, where he tries a variety of small dishes, including patatas bravas, fried potatoes with a spicy sauce, and gambas al ajillo, shrimp cooked with garlic and olive oil.

Next, Andrew visits one of Madrid's oldest restaurants, which specializes in cocido, a hearty soup made with chickpeas, vegetables, and meats. The restaurant has been serving this dish for over a century and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Andrew also visits a restaurant that serves a modern take on traditional Spanish dishes, using innovative techniques and local ingredients to create dishes like razor clams with black garlic and paprika oil.

Andrew then travels to a neighborhood known for its multicultural influence, visiting a restaurant that serves a fusion of Spanish and Indian cuisine. He samples dishes like chicken curry served with rice and naan bread, as well as traditional Spanish dishes like paella with a spicy twist. In another neighborhood, Andrew visits a bakery that specializes in churros, a deep-fried dough pastry that is popular among locals as a mid-morning snack or after dinner dessert. He pairs the churros with a cup of thick hot chocolate, a traditional accompaniment.

The episode concludes with a visit to a seafood restaurant, where Andrew tries some of the freshest shellfish he has ever tasted. The restaurant sources its seafood from the nearby coast, and Andrew samples dishes like grilled octopus and sardines cooked over an open flame. The meal is accompanied by local wines and finished with a dessert of creamy flan.

Throughout the episode, Andrew provides insight into the cultural significance of each dish and its place in Madrid's culinary history. He also speaks with local chefs and food experts, learning about their unique perspectives on Madrid's food scene and the inspiration behind their dishes. "Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations" season 6 episode 5 is a mouth-watering journey through Madrid's diverse culinary landscape.