Ep 8. Stray Dogs

Food Lore is a captivating and thought-provoking series that explores the relationship between food and culture. Each episode is a unique story with different characters, settings, and cuisine. In season 1 episode 8, titled Stray Dogs, we follow the journey of a young couple who has recently moved to Vietnam.

The episode begins with Matt and Sarah, who are trying to adjust to life in their new home. They are excited to explore the local culture, especially the food. The couple is on a quest to find the best pho in town. They visit several restaurants but are disappointed with the taste and quality of the dish.

One day, while walking down a street, they come across a small eatery run by a woman named Mai. The couple is immediately drawn to the aroma coming from the kitchen. They decide to try the pho, and to their surprise, it is the best they have tasted so far. Intrigued by the unique flavor, they strike up a conversation with Mai. She tells them that the secret to her pho is in her broth, which she makes with a special ingredient called dog meat.

Matt and Sarah are taken aback by this revelation. They are animal lovers and cannot fathom eating dog meat. They leave the eatery feeling conflicted. On one hand, they love the taste of the pho, but on the other hand, they do not want to support the consumption of dog meat.

The rest of the episode explores the couple's dilemma and their attempts to come to terms with it. They learn about the practice of eating dog meat in Vietnam and its cultural significance. They discover that in some parts of the country, dog meat is considered a delicacy and is believed to have medicinal properties.

As they delve deeper into the issue, they are confronted with their own biases and preconceptions. They realize that their aversion to dog meat is based on their cultural upbringing and has little to do with ethical or moral considerations. They also learn that the consumption of meat is a personal choice, and everyone has their own beliefs and values.

Through their journey, Matt and Sarah gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam's culture and traditions. They learn to appreciate the complexity and diversity of the country's cuisine and people. They also learn to be more open-minded and accepting of different perspectives.

The episode is beautifully shot and portrays Vietnam in all its glory. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the tranquil countryside, the visuals are stunning. The acting is also top-notch, and the actors portray their roles with sincerity and conviction.

In conclusion, Food Lore season 1 episode 8, Stray Dogs, is a compelling and insightful exploration of food, culture, and identity. It challenges our assumptions and beliefs and encourages us to embrace diversity and cultural exchange. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in food and travel and provides a unique perspective on Vietnam's culinary landscape.