Ep 5. Wisconsin

In episode 5 of season 9 of Bizarre Foods, host Andrew Zimmern sets off on a culinary adventure through the state of Wisconsin. Known for its dairy industry, cheese curds and sausage, Zimmern is on a mission to discover the hidden food gems that make Wisconsin's cuisine truly unique.

Zimmern begins his journey in Milwaukee, where he tries out a classic Midwest dish - the butter burger. Made with a buttery toasted bun and a juicy beef patty, this burger is a Wisconsin staple. Zimmern also visits a local brewery to try out some of the state's famous craft beers, which are brewed with the purest water from the state's abundant lakes and natural springs.

Next, Zimmern heads to Madison, the state capital and home to the University of Wisconsin. Here, he discovers the state's love for bratwursts and goes on a hunt for the perfect brat. Whether grilled or boiled, the brat in Wisconsin is always served with a side of tangy sauerkraut and spicy mustard.

Leaving the city behind, Zimmern ventures into the countryside where he discovers the state's true culinary gems. In the town of Mineral Point, Zimmern makes a stop at an old fashioned supper club where he tries the fish fry - a Friday night tradition in Wisconsin. Made with locally caught perch, the fish fry is served with a side of rye bread, coleslaw, and tartar sauce.

Venturing deeper into Wisconsin, Zimmern visits a family-owned dairy farm where he learns about the state's cheese-making traditions. From the famous cheddar to the lesser-known limburger, Zimmern tries out a variety of cheeses and even gets his hands dirty learning how to make cheese curds from scratch.

In the town of Algoma, Zimmern discovers Wisconsin's love for smoked meat. From beef jerky to smoked salmon, Zimmern tries it all at a local smokehouse. The highlight of the visit is a taste of the state's famous smoked bratwurst, made with a blend of pork and beef and smoked to perfection.

As his journey comes to a close, Zimmern heads to a local hunting club to try out some of Wisconsin's wild game. From venison to elk, Zimmern samples the best of Wisconsin's hunting scene. He also tries out a unique dish made with wild goose, a bird that is both delicious and abundant in Wisconsin.

Overall, Zimmern's trip through Wisconsin is a journey through some of the state's most beloved dishes. From classic Midwest fare to lesser-known specialties, Wisconsin's cuisine is truly unique and worth exploring.