Ep 1. Southwest Smoke Signals

As the world continues to seek new techniques and flavors, the art of cooking over an open flame has experienced a resurgence. The show Man, Fire, Food season 9 episode 1, titled Southwest Smoke Signals, explores the magic of cooking with fire in the American southwest.

This episode takes viewers on a journey through the rich culture and traditions of the southwestern region of the United States, focusing on the intricate way in which cooking with fire ties into the lifestyle and history of the locals. The episode captures the essence of the southwest, from its striking landscapes to its unique cuisine.

The host, Roger Mooking, begins the show with a visit to a ranch in New Mexico, where he meets a group of Cowboys known for their love of smoked meat. The cowboys show Roger how to prepare a traditional southwestern-style dish known as carne adovada, which involves marinating pork in red chili sauce and smoking it slowly over an open flame.

Next, Roger travels to Arizona where he ventures into the Sonoran Desert in search of one of the only food trucks in the region. The food truck specializes in smoking meat using mesquite wood, which is abundant in the desert. The owner of the food truck, Juan Martinez, demonstrates how he slow cooks beef brisket using mesquite, giving it a distinct smoky flavor.

In keeping with the southwestern theme, the next stop on Roger's journey takes him to Hatch, New Mexico, which is known as the Chile Capital of the World. Hatch is famous for its green chilies, and Roger gets a chance to experience the smoky and spicy flavor of these chilies when he visits a small roasting operation where locals gather to roast their own chilies.

Finally, the show takes viewers to the outskirts of Santa Fe, New Mexico, where Roger meets a legendary pitmaster, Johnny Ortiz. Johnny has been smoking meat for over thirty years, and his cooking has garnered a loyal following. Roger joins Johnny as they smoke a whole sheep, which is a traditional meal served during holiday celebrations in the region.

Throughout the episode, the viewer is treated to stunning visuals of the southwest region, highlighting the beauty of the natural surroundings, and the connection between the land and the people who inhabit it. The show captures the unique culinary techniques and flavors of the southwestern region, showcasing the importance that cooking with fire has in the culture of the area.

Overall, the season 9 premiere of Man, Fire, Food offers a tantalizing look at the world of southwestern-style barbecue and cooking with fire. Through the lens of host Roger Mooking, viewers are taken on a journey through the southwest, experiencing the unique flavors and traditions of this iconic American region.