Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern Season 12 Episode 13 Florida Keys: Horse Conch & Hogfish

In season 12, episode 13 of Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern, Andrew heads out to the Florida Keys to explore the unique and diverse cuisine of the island chain. He dives into the crystal clear waters to hunt for the elusive horse conch, a large sea snail that is a delicacy in the region. Andrew also fishes for hogfish, a local favorite that is often prepared whole and roasted.

Throughout the episode, Andrew meets with local chefs and fishermen to learn more about the traditional dishes of the Florida Keys. He samples conch fritters, a popular appetizer made with minced conch meat and served with a tangy dipping sauce. He also tries a classic Cuban sandwich, a staple of the Keys' food scene that features layers of ham, pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on a crispy, toasted roll.

As he explores the area, Andrew discovers how the melting pot of cultures in the Keys has led to a unique blend of flavors and ingredients in the local cuisine. He visits a food truck run by a Vietnamese family that serves traditional banh mi sandwiches filled with fresh seafood caught daily in the Keys. He also learns about the history of the sponge industry in the Keys and samples a dish featuring sautéed sponges with garlic and butter.

Beyond the unique cuisine, Andrew also explores the natural beauty of the Florida Keys and the importance of sustainability in the seafood industry. He meets with a local oyster farmer who is working to restore the oyster population in the Keys and promote eco-friendly farming practices. He also visits a turtle hospital where injured or sick sea turtles are rehabilitated and released back into the wild.

Overall, the episode provides a fascinating look at the diverse food scene and natural beauty of the Florida Keys, and how the two are intertwined through sustainable fishing and preservation efforts.