John Torode's Malaysian Adventure Season 1 Episode 7 Kota Bharu

John Torode's Malaysian Adventure season 1 episode 7, named Kota Bharu, takes viewers on a culinary journey through the traditional food of the northeastern state of Kelantan. John immerses himself in the local culture and ways of life as he explores the food markets and tries out a range of refined and rustic dishes.

The episode begins with John visiting the vibrant Wet Market in Kota Bharu, where he meets the stallholders who sell the fresh and oftentimes unusual ingredients used in the local cuisine. John is amazed by the range of fish on display, including catfish and patin, which are cooked in a variety of styles. John also comes across some of the more unusual ingredients like petai beans, a bitter bean that is a staple ingredient in many traditional dishes.

Next, John takes in a cultural show in the streets of Kota Bharu, watching as traditional Malay music is performed alongside awe-inspiring silat (a type of martial arts) dance routines. John observes the costumes and intricate dance moves which coincide with the music, and he's left in awe of the creativity and talent of the performers.

After the show, John heads to a local home to cook with some of the local women. John learns how to make Nasi Ulam, a rice dish that uses fragrant herbs like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves, as well as grated coconut and fiery chili. John is fascinated by the blend of flavors, aromas and textures of the dish. John also attempts making noodles from scratch, which is a new skill for him. He is encouraged by the local women and fails miserably at first but eventually manages to produce some decent noodles.

John continues his journey by visiting a local establishment that serves a unique style of chicken rice known as 'nasi ayam'. John is introduced to the deeply flavored rice cooked in aromatic pandan leaves, and alongside it the succulent chicken curry. Other delicacies that catch his attention in the restaurant include steamed clams, stir-fried kangkung and fish crackers. The restaurant also specializes in traditional candies, such as dodol, which John had never tried before.

John then visits a small eatery in a corner of a market, arranged around a cooking pot and learn about the origins of the famous laksa dish. John is given the opportunity to cook alongside the local women in the tiny kitchen, and learns how to create the rich and complex flavors of the soup.

Kota Bharu is also home to the unique and well-preserved Islamic Arts Museum. John pays a visit to the museum that celebrates traditional Islamic art and artifacts from all over the region. John learns about Islamic art, and its connection to the culture and lifestyle of Malaysia.

The episode ends with John trying out another popular dish in a local restaurant, Hjh Saadiah's Nasi Kerabu. This dish uses a distinctive blue rice, which is flavored with a combination of exotic herbs, spices, and pandan juice. The dish is topped with fried chicken, fish, pickles, and crackers, and is appreciated by the locals.

John's adventure through Kota Bharu allows viewers to see the beauty and complexity of the local cuisine and its culture. He has explored the diversity of Kelantanese food and met the locals that create it. Overall, it's a culinary journey not to be missed.