Huang's World Season 2 Episode 19 Chengdu Part 1
- April 7, 2014
Huang's World is a travel and food show hosted by Eddie Huang, a chef and author. In season 2 episode 19, titled Chengdu Part 1, Eddie takes viewers on a culinary journey through the city of Chengdu, the capital of China's Sichuan province.
The episode begins with Eddie traveling to Chengdu, where he meets up with his friend, Chengdu native and chef Yu Bo. They start their culinary adventure by visiting the local wet market, where they sample some of the freshest produce and meats. Eddie is amazed by the variety of ingredients available, including miniature oysters, fresh bamboo shoots, and giant mushrooms.
Next, Eddie and Yu Bo visit a street vendor selling hot pot, a popular Sichuan dish. They try a spicy version, filled with meat and vegetables, and discuss the importance of the communal aspect of hot pot. Eddie notices that the vendor is using a unique method to cook the hot pot, by using a chimney-like contraption that lets the heat rise up from the bottom, creating a more evenly cooked dish.
Eddie and Yu Bo then visit a traditional Sichuan restaurant, where they sample some of the city's most famous dishes. They try ma po tofu, a spicy, saucy tofu dish, and kung pao chicken, a stir-fry with peanuts and vegetables. Eddie is impressed by the flavors and the level of spiciness, which he describes as a "flavor bomb."
Later, Eddie meets up with a group of hip hop dancers, who take him to a local watering hole. The drinks flow freely as they discuss the Chengdu music scene and the rise of hip hop culture in China. Eddie samples some of the local brews, including baijiu, a strong grain alcohol that is a favorite among locals.
The episode concludes with Eddie visiting a local night market, where he samples some of the city's most unique and adventurous street foods. He tries grilled frogs, spicy rabbit heads, and even scorpion skewers. Eddie reflects on how Chengdu's cuisine reflects its culture, which is both ancient and modern, traditional and innovative.
Overall, Chengdu Part 1 is an exciting and informative episode of Huang's World, showcasing the vibrant culinary scene of one of China's most dynamic cities. Eddie Huang's enthusiasm for food and culture is infectious, and viewers will be left eager to try some of the dishes he samples in this episode.