From the Source Season 2 Episode 1 Chocolate

From the Source is a food and travel show that follows award-winning chef Marcus Samuelsson as he travels the world to experience the cultures, traditions, and flavors of different regions. In season 2, episode 1, Marcus sets his sights on the sweet and savory world of chocolate.

The episode begins with Marcus in Mexico, the birthplace of chocolate. He visits a local market where he meets with a cacao farmer and learns about the process of harvesting and making chocolate. With the help of his guide, Marcus samples various chocolate products, including cacao nibs and cocoa powder. He also learns about the history and significance of chocolate in Mexican culture and how it has evolved over time.

Next, Marcus travels to Switzerland, a country known for its high-quality chocolate. He visits a chocolate factory where he witnesses the intricate process of making chocolate bars. Marcus meets with the chocolatiers and learns about the different techniques and flavors used to create unique chocolate bars. He also gets a behind-the-scenes look at the testing process to ensure that each batch is up to standard.

After Switzerland, Marcus heads to Brooklyn, New York, to visit a craft chocolate maker. He meets with the owner and learns about her inspiration for starting her business. Marcus also assists in making a batch of chocolate and learns about the various techniques used to create different flavors and textures.

The final stop on Marcus's chocolate journey takes him to Ghana, a country known for its rich cocoa. Marcus visits a cocoa farm and meets with local farmers who share their stories about working in the cocoa industry. He learns about the challenges they face and how they are working to improve their livelihoods. Marcus also gets to sample traditional Ghanaian dishes that incorporate cocoa.

Throughout the episode, Marcus showcases the versatility of chocolate as a cooking ingredient. He samples chocolate in dishes both sweet and savory, including mole sauce in Mexico and a chocolate and chili powder-spiced steak in Switzerland. He also experiments with different flavor combinations, such as sea salt and caramel.

Overall, From the Source season 2 episode 1 offers a comprehensive look at the world of chocolate, from its origins in Mexico to its global popularity today. Marcus Samuelsson's enthusiastic and curious approach to exploring different cultures and cuisines makes for an engaging and informative viewing experience.