Ep 12. Cooking With Fire

In season 12 episode 12 of Bizarre Foods, host Andrew Zimmern takes us on a fiery journey around the world as he explores the culinary art of cooking with fire. From traditional pit cooking methods in Mexico to roasting entire lambs in Turkey, this episode showcases the many ways in which fire has been central to cuisine across cultures and time periods.

The episode is broken up into segments that feature different types of cooking with fire. The first segment takes us to Mexico where Zimmern visits a family that is still using ancient pit cooking techniques to make barbacoa, a traditional dish made of meats cooked low and slow in underground pits. Watching the family carefully prepare the meats and stoke the fire, Zimmern observes how this method of cooking takes time, patience, and skill. Next, we travel to Turkey, where Zimmern observes the centuries-old tradition of roasting entire lambs over open fires. The cooking process is ritualistic, and Zimmern is amazed to see how perfectly cooked the lamb turns out.

In Thailand, Zimmern samples a popular street food called Hoy Tod, which is made by cooking fresh oysters over a blazing hot griddle. The process is quick and intense, and Zimmern is amazed at how the oysters are able to withstand the high heat and still retain their flavor and texture. In Japan, Zimmern visits a restaurant which specializes in grilling and smoking all kinds of meats, fish, and vegetables on a custom-built grill. Watching the chef expertly handle the grill and the ingredients, Zimmern notes how important fire is in Japanese cuisine.

Back in the US, Zimmern visits a farm in South Carolina where they are using wood-fired brick ovens to make artisanal bread. The process is intricate and takes several hours, but the result is a crusty, hearty loaf that is worth the effort. The episode concludes with a visit to a California restaurant where Zimmern samples a unique dish that is cooked using a blowtorch. The chef explains that the intense heat and direct flame allow for precise and controlled cooking, and Zimmern agrees that the resulting dish is innovative and delicious.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern highlights the different techniques and traditions associated with cooking with fire. He also draws attention to the challenges that come with relying on fire as a primary cooking method, such as ensuring even cooking temperatures and avoiding burnt food. Ultimately, viewers come away with a greater appreciation for the role that fire has played in shaping culinary techniques and flavors around the world.

In summary, Bizarre Foods season 12 episode 12, "Cooking With Fire," takes viewers on a global journey to explore the art and science of cooking with fire. From traditional pit cooking methods to blowtorches and other modern innovations, this episode showcases the many ways in which people have harnessed the power of fire to shape their cuisine. Andrew Zimmern's enthusiasm and deep knowledge of food make this episode a fascinating and engaging watch for all food lovers.