Milk Street Television Season 5 Episode 19 La Cocina de Puerto Vallarta

In Christopher Kimball's Milk Street, Season 2 season 5 episode 19, titled "La Cocina de Puerto Vallarta," viewers are taken on a culinary adventure to the coastal city of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. This episode focuses on the vibrant flavors and ingredients unique to the region, as well as the traditional techniques used to prepare these dishes.

Throughout the episode, host Christopher Kimball is joined by local chef Betty Vazquez, who provides insight into the history and cultural significance of Puerto Vallarta's cuisine. Together, they visit bustling food markets and sample various street foods, including tacos al pastor and ceviche.

One of the standout dishes featured in the episode is chiles en nogada, a dish that originated in Puebla but has made its way to Puerto Vallarta. This colorful dish consists of large poblano peppers stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, fruits, and nuts, topped with a creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds. The dish is not only visually stunning, but also represents the Mexican flag's colors.

Viewers also get a glimpse into the making of fresh tortillas, a key component of many Mexican dishes. Betty demonstrates how to make tortillas by hand using a traditional metate, a large flat grinding stone.

Another dish featured is a traditional seafood soup called pozole de mariscos, which is known for its rich and complex flavors. Chef Betty highlights the importance of using fresh, high-quality seafood and spices to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

Throughout the episode, Christopher and Betty emphasize the importance of using local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques to truly capture the essence of Puerto Vallarta's cuisine. They also showcase the region's bold flavors and use of spices, such as the smoky and spicy chipotle chili.

Ultimately, "La Cocina de Puerto Vallarta" is a celebration of the rich culinary traditions of Mexico's coastal regions. Viewers are sure to be inspired by the vibrant colors, bold flavors, and unique ingredients that make Puerto Vallarta's cuisine so special.