Gastronomad Travelogue Season 1 Episode 12 Gold Fish in a Kilo of Salt

Gastronomad Travelogue is a travel show for foodies seeking adventure, hosted by Chef David Barish. In season 1, episode 12, titled "Gold Fish in a Kilo of Salt," Chef Barish travels to the northern region of China to explore some of the unique, salted delicacies the area is known for, including the famed "gold fish in a kilo of salt."

The episode begins as Chef Barish arrives in Lanzhou, a city in China's Gansu Province. He takes viewers through the bustling, colorful markets where vendors sell everything from fresh produce to meat and fish, before arriving at one particular stall where he finds the star of the episode - the "gold fish in a kilo of salt." Chef Barish explains that the fish is a rare delicacy, traditionally served at special events like weddings, and involves a unique dehydrating process that takes several weeks.

Next, Chef Barish heads to a nearby salt mine to learn about the ancient process of harvesting salt from the earth. He is fascinated by the labor-intensive process, especially when he learns that the miners still use many of the same methods that have been passed down for generations. The salt is then transported to the nearby mountainside town of Zhongwei, where Chef Barish meets with a local family who has been producing and selling salted fish for decades. He joins them in their backyard for a traditional meal of salted fish and vegetables, where he samples several dishes made from the family's special recipe.

Throughout the episode, Chef Barish immerses himself in the local culture, learning about the history and traditions behind the unique dishes he discovers. He samples a variety of other salted foods, including vegetables, fruits, and even lamb, all of which are dried and preserved using the salty mineral. He also visits a local brewery where he learns about the art of making baijiu, a popular Chinese liquor, and samples several varieties of the spirit.

As always, Chef Barish brings his vast culinary knowledge and expertise to the show, offering insights into the flavor profile and cooking techniques behind each dish he tries. He also engages with the locals he meets, sharing stories and cultural traditions while gaining new insight into the cuisine of the region. Ultimately, the episode captures the essence of what makes Gastronomad Travelogue a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of food, culture, and adventure travel.