Ep 3. Wild Wheat Harvest

The Hairy Bikers are off on another culinary adventure in season 1 episode 3 - Wild Wheat Harvest. This time, they're exploring the ancient tradition of harvesting wild wheat in the Mediterranean.

The episode begins with the Bikers arriving in Crete, where they meet with local farmers who have been harvesting wild wheat for generations. The wild wheat grows in the mountains and is much harder to find and harvest than conventional wheat. Despite the challenges, the farmers believe that the extra effort is worth it as the resulting flour has a much richer flavor.

After taking in the stunning scenery of the Cretan countryside, the Bikers join the farmers and get their hands dirty in the wheat fields. They learn how to cut the wheat using traditional sickles and then use a process called "threshing" to separate the grains from the rest of the plant. The Bikers are clearly impressed with the amount of hard work that goes into the process.

Back in the kitchen, the Bikers put the fresh wild wheat flour to the test by making a selection of dishes. First up is a classic Greek dish - spanakopita. The Bikers add a twist by using wild greens instead of spinach, and the result is a crispy, flavorful pie that's bursting with Mediterranean flavors.

Next, the Bikers try their hand at making traditional Italian pasta using the wild wheat flour. They team up with a local pasta maker who shows them how to create beautiful strands of handmade pasta. The Bikers pair the pasta with a simple tomato sauce that's bursting with fresh flavors.

For their final dish, the Bikers make a sweet treat that's popular in the Cretan villages - honey and sesame rolls. They use the wild wheat flour to make a dough that's rolled into thin strips, then filled with a mixture of honey and sesame seeds. The rolls are baked until golden brown and are the perfect way to end a delicious meal.

Throughout the episode, the Bikers share interesting facts about wild wheat and the benefits of incorporating it into our diets. They also highlight the importance of supporting small-scale farmers who are keeping traditional methods alive.

Overall, Wild Wheat Harvest is a fascinating and engaging episode that delves into the cultural and culinary significance of wild wheat in the Mediterranean. The Bikers' infectious enthusiasm and sense of fun make this a joy to watch, and their passion for exploring new ingredients and techniques is truly inspiring.