Ep 1. Beijing, China

In this episode of Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern, the host visits Beijing, China to explore the local cuisine. He begins his adventure by visiting a local market where he sees a variety of exotic ingredients including snake, scorpions, and crickets. Zimmern marvels at the sight and smells of the market and is eager to try some of the unusual dishes.

Next, Zimmern heads to a restaurant that specializes in serving Peking duck, a famous Chinese dish. He watches as the chef prepares the duck in a traditional manner, roasting it with wood fire until the skin is crispy and golden. The chef then serves the duck with thin pancakes, scallions, and a sweet bean paste. Zimmern savors the succulent and flavorful duck meat, and marvels at the complexity of the dish.

After indulging in Peking duck, Zimmern heads to a small eatery that serves fried bugs. He tries a variety of fried insects including crickets, silkworm pupae, and scorpions. Zimmern is initially hesitant to try bugs, but is pleasantly surprised by their flavor and texture. He learns that many people in Beijing enjoy eating bugs as a snack due to their high protein content.

Zimmern then visits a street vendor who sells traditional Chinese breakfast foods such as jianbing, a type of savory crepe filled with eggs, crispy crackers, and scallions. He also tries a bowl of mung bean soup, a popular breakfast item that is said to be good for digestion.

In addition to trying traditional Chinese food, Zimmern also explores Beijing's modern culinary scene. He visits a restaurant that serves Western-style seafood, such as oysters, mussels, and lobster. Zimmern is impressed by the fresh ingredients and innovative cooking techniques used at the restaurant.

Finally, Zimmern visits a local family who invites him to their home for a home-cooked meal. The family prepares a variety of dishes including fish and vegetables steamed in lotus leaves, spicy beef and potatoes, and tofu with mushrooms. Zimmern is touched by the family's hospitality and impressed by their cooking skills.

Overall, Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern season 2 episode 1 provides an insightful and entertaining look at the diverse and delicious food culture of Beijing, China. From traditional Chinese dishes to modern Western-style cuisine, Zimmern showcases some of the city's most unique and flavorful foods.