Ep 2. The Great Food Frontier

In "The Great Food Frontier," the second episode of the 15th season of Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern, Andrew explores the unique cuisine and diverse culture of the American Northwest. Andrew's exploration of this region's culinary creations takes him from Seattle to Alaska, showcasing the cultural roots of these flavorful foods.

Andrew first stops at Seattle's iconic Pike Place Market, famous for its fresh seafood and locally sourced produce. The lively atmosphere of the market provides a perfect backdrop for Andrew to talk with the vendors and fishmongers, learning the intricacies of the city's seafood trade. Andrew's visit to Seattle also includes a stop at a restaurant that serves up world-class smoked salmon.

After leaving Seattle, Andrew heads north to Alaska, where he discovers the great food frontier of the wild northwest. The state's rich history of indigenous inhabitants and nearly untouched landscapes have helped shape its distinct culinary scene. Andrew begins his exploration of Alaska's food culture with a taste of seal oil ice cream, a traditional food enjoyed by the Inupiaq people.

Andrew's next stop brings him to Sitka, a fishing town on Baranof Island, where he meets a family who supplies fresh seafood to the community. They teach Andrew about the unique preparation of aged salmon, where the fish is preserved for several months through a traditional technique involving burying it underground.

Andrew's adventure in Alaska takes him to remote areas where he learns of the traditional practices of subsistence hunting and fishing. Andrew has a chance to taste some of these foods, including dried fish and moose nose.

The final leg of Andrew's journey leads him to the town of Haines, where he meets a family that has been fishing for generations. Andrew engages in a special crabbing excursion with the family, learning the techniques and danger of handling live crab and other creatures of the sea.

Throughout the episode, Andrew Zimmern showcases the unique foods, cultures and traditions of the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. From Seattle's Pike Place Market to Haines' crabbing excursion, Andrew's adventure in the great food frontier offers an intriguing insight into the region's rich culinary history.