Cooking The Continent Season 1 Episode 2 Bolivia

Cooking The Continent is an exciting new food and travel series that takes viewers on an epic culinary adventure across Africa. In each episode, chef and presenter, Siba Mtongana, visits a different country on the continent to explore the diverse culinary traditions and flavours of its people.

In season 1 episode 2, titled Bolivia, Siba travels to South America for an immersive taste of Bolivian cuisine. Bolivia is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and its food is a reflection of its unique blend of indigenous and European influences.

Siba's journey begins in the capital city of La Paz, where she discovers the many flavours of Bolivia's street food scene. She samples salteñas, a famous Bolivian empanada filled with beef, potatoes, and vegetables, and api con pastel, a sweet corn drink served with fried pastries.

From La Paz, Siba travels to the city of Cochabamba, known as the gastronomic capital of Bolivia. Here, she meets up with local chef, Maria Helena Luján, who introduces her to some of the regional specialties. Siba tries out pique macho, a hearty dish made with beef, sausage, and french fries, and majadito, a rice and beef platter that's a staple of Bolivian cuisine.

Next, Siba ventures out of the city and into the countryside to explore Bolivia's farming traditions. She visits a quinoa farm to learn about the ancient grain's role in local cuisine and tries her hand at harvesting potatoes alongside local farmers.

Back in Cochabamba, Siba visits a traditional market to shop for ingredients to prepare a typical Bolivian meal. She selects fresh produce, meats, and spices, and heads back to Maria Helena's kitchen to cook up a storm. Together, they make pique a lo macho, a variation of pique macho made with pork, and choclo con queso, a creamy corn and cheese dish.

Throughout the episode, Siba is struck by the warmth and generosity of the Bolivian people and their dedication to preserving their food traditions. Cooking The Continent season 1 episode 2 does a great job of showcasing the diversity of Bolivian cuisine and culture, and viewers are sure to come away with a newfound appreciation for this vibrant country and its food.