Ep 3. Magnificent Mississippi River

In season 18 episode 3 of Bizarre Foods, host Andrew Zimmern travels to the Magnificent Mississippi River to explore the unique cuisine found along its banks. The episode takes viewers on a culinary adventure as Zimmern samples traditional dishes and unique delicacies found in cities and towns throughout the region.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern meets with locals who share their family recipes and cooking techniques. He begins his journey in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he tries a classic Midwestern dish: the hot dish. This hearty casserole is made with ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, and tater tots, and is a staple in many households throughout the region.

As Zimmern travels down the Mississippi, he stops in various towns to try unique and traditional dishes. In St. Louis, Missouri, he tries the famous St. Louis-style pizza, which features a thin and crispy crust and is topped with a unique blend of cheeses and tomato sauce. In Memphis, Tennessee, he samples barbecue ribs cooked in a pit smoker and served with a sweet and tangy sauce.

The episode also explores the cajun and creole cuisine found in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Zimmern samples jambalaya, a spicy rice dish with shrimp, sausage, and vegetables, as well as gumbo, a stew made with a roux and a variety of meats and vegetables. He also tries a unique street food found in New Orleans: the muffuletta sandwich. This hearty sandwich is served on a sesame seed bun and is filled with cured meats and a tangy olive salad.

In addition to traditional cuisine, Zimmern also samples some unique delicacies found along the Mississippi River. In La Crosse, Wisconsin, he tries a deep-fried cheese curd, a local specialty that is crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. In St. Louis, he tries a local delicacy known as the brain sandwich, which is made with breaded and fried cow brains.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern delves into the history and culture of the region, exploring how the cuisine has been shaped by the Mississippi River and the various cultures and communities that call it home. He also learns about the challenges facing the region's food industry, from climate change to the decline of family farms.

Overall, Bizarre Foods season 18 episode 3 is a fascinating exploration of the Magnificent Mississippi River and the unique cuisine found along its banks. Viewers will be treated to a mouth-watering adventure that showcases the rich history and culture of the region.