Ep 5. Mediterranean State of Mind

In the latest episode of Guy's Big Bite, titled "Mediterranean State of Mind," chef and TV personality Guy Fieri takes us on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean coast. This episode revolves around the idea of bringing the flavors of the Mediterranean home, and Fieri demonstrates how easy it is to create complex and delicious dishes using the bold and aromatic ingredients found in this region's cuisine.

Fieri's first recipe of the episode is a classic Mediterranean dish, Shakshuka. He starts by sautéing onions, garlic, and peppers in olive oil until they're soft and fragrant. He then adds tomatoes, paprika, and cumin to the mix, creating a deep and complex flavor base. Once the tomatoes have cooked down, Fieri cracks a few eggs into the skillet and lets them poach in the delicious tomato mixture. Finally, he tops the dish with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley, creating a hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch.

Next up, Fieri prepares a dish inspired by the seaside cuisine of the Mediterranean, Grilled Swordfish with Mediterranean Salsa. He starts by marinating the swordfish in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. While the fish is marinating, he whips up a fresh salsa using diced tomatoes, red onion, capers, olives, and fresh basil. Once the swordfish is grilled to perfection, he places it on a bed of dressed greens and tops it with the flavorful salsa, creating a light and refreshing dish that's perfect for warm summer nights.

The third recipe of the episode is one that Fieri developed while on a trip to the Mediterranean, Charred Vegetable Salad with Feta Vinaigrette. He starts by grilling an array of colorful vegetables, including zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. Once the vegetables are nicely charred, he combines them with crumbled feta cheese, fresh herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette made with red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey. This salad is a great way to showcase the bold flavors and textures of Mediterranean vegetables and is sure to be a hit at any summer barbecue or potluck.

Finally, Fieri wraps up the episode with a dessert that's sure to transport you to the Mediterranean coast, Honey and Lemon Cardamom Pots de Crème. He starts by infusing cream with fragrant cardamom pods, creating a rich and creamy base for the dessert. He then adds honey, lemon juice, and zest to the mixture, creating a tangy and sweet flavor profile that's reminiscent of the lemon trees that line the Mediterranean coast. Once the pots de crème are chilled and set, he tops them with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios, creating a dessert that's both elegant and satisfying.

Throughout the episode, Fieri provides tips and tricks on how to get the most flavor out of each ingredient and how to balance the bold and aromatic flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. He also showcases how easy it is to create complex and delicious dishes at home using simple and fresh ingredients. Overall, "Mediterranean State of Mind" is a fantastic episode of Guy's Big Bite that will leave you feeling inspired to bring the flavors of the Mediterranean into your own kitchen.