Ep 10. Curacao

Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations season 9 episode 10 is named Curacao and follows the host, Andrew Zimmern, as he explores the cuisine and culture of the Caribbean island of Curacao. The episode starts with Zimmern explaining how the island's location on the trade routes between Europe, Africa, and the Americas influenced its diverse food scene.

Zimmern begins his culinary journey by visiting the historic Floating Market, where local vendors sell fresh seafood and produce from Venezuela. He samples a variety of fruits and vegetables, including chadon beni, a leafy herb with a strong flavor similar to cilantro. He also tries carite, a fish often used in traditional Curacaoan dishes like stobá, a stew made with meat, beans, and vegetables.

Next, Zimmern visits a family-owned distillery that produces the island's famous blue liqueur, Curaçao. He watches as the distillery's owner, a fourth-generation master distiller, mixes the distinctive blue color and citrus flavor using locally grown oranges. Zimmern also learns about the history of Curaçao's rum production and tastes a few different varieties.

Zimmern then meets with a local chef who introduces him to the island's Afro-Caribbean cuisine. He watches as the chef prepares funchi, a type of cornmeal polenta that is a staple in Curacaoan cuisine. He also tries keshi yena, a baked dish made with shredded Gouda cheese, chicken, and spices that originated from the island's African slaves who used leftover cheese rinds to create a filling for their meals.

The episode also features a visit to the island's largest market, Marshe Bieu, where Zimmern tries the traditional dish of kabritu, or goat stew, served with funchi and vegetables. He also samples other dishes like saté karni, skewered beef marinated in a peanut sauce, and pastechi, a pastry filled with cheesy meat or seafood.

In addition to food, the episode also explores the island's culture and history. Zimmern visits a local museum to learn about the island's Jewish population and tries the traditional dish of kibi, a fried ball of ground beef and bulgur wheat. He also visits a local bakery that specializes in Dutch pastries, a reflection of the island's colonial history.

The episode ends with Zimmern visiting a local fishing village, where he watches as the fishermen bring in their catch of the day, including dorado and tuna. He samples a fresh ceviche made from the day's catch and reflects on the island's unique culinary blend of European, African, and Caribbean influences.

Overall, Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations season 9 episode 10 is a fascinating look at the diverse and rich food culture of the Caribbean island of Curacao, featuring a wide variety of traditional dishes and unique ingredients.