Ep 9. Playing With Fire

In Bizarre Foods season 17 episode 9, titled "Playing With Fire," host Andrew Zimmern travels to different parts of the world to explore the unique culinary traditions of each region. The episode features various countries and cultures, including Mexico, Argentina, and Madagascar.

In Mexico, Zimmern visits a restaurant that specializes in cooking with fire. He samples a variety of dishes cooked on the open flames, including a beef dish with chili sauce. He also visits a street vendor who makes a Mexican specialty called esquites, a dish made from grilled corn, cheese, and chili.

In Argentina, Zimmern visits a ranch where they raise cattle for the meat industry. He learns about the traditional way of cooking meat over fire, known as asado. The ranchers demonstrate how they prepare and cook the meat, and Zimmern samples various cuts of beef, including ribeye and sweetbreads.

In Madagascar, Zimmern explores the local cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the island's French and Indian cultural heritage. He visits a restaurant that specializes in seafood, sampling everything from raw sea urchin to grilled octopus. He also tries a dish called Romazava, a traditional stew made with various meats and local greens. Zimmern discovers that the cuisine in Madagascar is quite unique, with many unexpected flavor combinations.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern emphasizes the importance of fire as a cooking method in different cultures. He explains how this simple technique has been used for centuries, preserving traditions and bringing families and communities together over shared meals. He also highlights the creativity and innovation of chefs who use fire as a way to experiment with new flavors and cooking techniques.

In conclusion, Bizarre Foods season 17 episode 9, "Playing With Fire," is a fascinating exploration of the role of fire in different culinary traditions around the world. With Andrew Zimmern as a guide, viewers are treated to a diverse range of flavors and experiences, showcasing the incredible diversity and creativity of global cuisine.