Ep 14. Japan

In Bizarre Foods season 3 episode 14, host Andrew Zimmern takes viewers on a culinary adventure through Japan. The episode showcases the exotic and unconventional eating habits of the Japanese people, including their love for raw seafood and unique ingredients.

Zimmern begins his journey in Tokyo, where he tries his hand at making tempura, a fried dish commonly served in Japan. He then visits a fish market to witness the catch of the day and indulge in some fresh sushi. In true Japanese style, he also samples some unconventional seafood dishes, such as raw horse meat and poisonous pufferfish.

Next, Zimmern travels to Osaka, a city known for its street food culture. He seeks out unique dishes like octopus balls, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki, a savory pancake stuffed with various meats and vegetables.

Continuing his quest, Zimmern heads to Kyoto, a city famous for its traditional cuisine. Here, he learns about the intricate preparation of kaiseki, a multi-course Japanese dinner. He also tries a dish called yudofu, a simple yet flavorful tofu hotpot.

Finally, Zimmern visits the rural area of Tottori, where he samples the local delicacy of grilled sandfish. As he travels through the countryside, he witnesses the traditional methods of preparing and cooking food, including the use of wood-fired ovens and traditional Japanese knives.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern explores the cultural significance of Japanese cuisine and how it has been shaped by the country's geography and history. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and appreciating different cultures through their food.

In typical Bizarre Foods fashion, Zimmern fearlessly tries a variety of new and unusual dishes, which may not be for the faint-hearted. But for those who are curious about Japan's culinary scene, this episode offers a fascinating insight into the country's unique and diverse cuisine.