Ep 5. The Saint James Way in Spain

Andrew Zimmern is back with the 20th season of Bizarre Foods, and this time, he’s taking a pilgrimage across the Saint James Way in Spain. The Saint James Way is a 500-mile trek that sees thousands of pilgrims from all over the world travel to visit the burial site of the apostle Saint James the Greater. The journey begins in the small town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France and winds its way through the rugged landscapes of northwestern Spain.

As Andrew makes his way through the countryside, he encounters a variety of unique foods and traditions. In the town of Logrono, he samples traditional pintxos, which are similar to tapas but are typically served on slices of bread. He also tries a blood sausage made from humanely raised pigs and a dish of mushrooms known as perretxicos. These mushrooms are only found in the forests of Spain and are highly prized for their nutty, earthy flavor.

In Pamplona, Andrew experiences the traditional running of the bulls festival. The festival is steeped in history and is a way for the residents of Pamplona to pay tribute to Saint James. Despite the danger and controversy surrounding the event, Andrew can’t resist trying the local delicacy, bull testicles known as criadillas.

As Andrew continues his journey, he experiences the Basque culture of San Sebastian. He samples the local catch of the day, a type of anchovy known as boquerones. He also visits a farm where they make queso de Idiazabal, a smoked cheese made from the milk of Latxa sheep. The cheese has a distinct smoky flavor and is a staple of the Basque cuisine.

In the town of Santiago de Compostela, Andrew finally reaches his destination, the final resting place of Saint James. The town is bustling with pilgrims from all over the world, and Andrew takes part in a traditional Galician meal known as a mariscada. The feast features a variety of seafood including lobster, crab, and mussels. This meal is a perfect way to celebrate the end of a long journey and pay tribute to the traditions and culture of Spain.

The Saint James Way is a unique journey that has been popular for centuries. Andrew’s trip highlights the diversity of food and culture in Spain and shows the importance of tradition in the country's cuisine. From the rugged mountains of the Pyrenees to the bustling cities of Pamplona and San Sebastian, Andrew offers viewers an unforgettable experience that showcases the beauty and flavors of Spain.