Ep 25. Montevideo

Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations is a travel and food documentary series that explores unique and diverse culinary traditions around the world. In season 8 episode 25, titled "Montevideo," host Andrew Zimmern takes viewers on a culinary journey through the capital city of Uruguay.

As Zimmern wanders the streets of Montevideo, he marvels at the city's European architecture and eclectic mix of cultures. He visits a historic market where he samples choripan, a popular Uruguayan street food made with chorizo sausage on a crusty bread roll. He also tries asado, a traditional Argentine and Uruguayan grilled meat dish, cooked over charcoal or wood fires. As Zimmern savors the tender and juicy meat, he learns about the culture and history behind the dish.

Next, Zimmern visits a seafood market where he tastes fresh-caught seafood. He has a bite of chivito, a staple sandwich of Uruguay made with beef, ham, bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, and a fried egg. He also tries the local delicacies of sea urchin and razor clams. As he explores the market, he interacts with the vendors and learns about their stories and traditions.

Zimmern also visits a small family-owned winery and vineyard in the countryside of Montevideo. He tastes their signature tannat wine and learns about the winemaking process. He also has a chance to sample some homemade empanadas, a savory pastry filled with beef, onion, and spices.

As night falls, Zimmern visits a local bar where he tries medialunas, a crescent-shaped pastry similar to a croissant, and a traditional Uruguayan drink called medio y medio, a blend of sparkling wine and white wine. He then heads to a cultural center to watch a tango performance and learns about the art of the dance and its significance in Uruguayan culture.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern emphasizes the importance of Uruguayan cuisine in reflecting the country's unique history and culture. From the influence of Spanish and Italian immigrants to the popularity of Uruguayan beef, each dish tells a story about Uruguay's past and present. With his adventurous spirit and genuine interest in the people and food of Montevideo, Zimmern provides an engaging and informative look into one of South America's most vibrant and delicious cities.