Moveable Feast with Fine Cooking Season 5 Episode 8 Puerto Rico

In season 5 episode 8 of Moveable Feast with Fine Cooking, host Pete Evans travels to Puerto Rico to explore the vibrant culture and delicious cuisine of the island. He is joined by two local chefs, Jose Santaella and Maria Mercedes Grubb, who take him on a tour of some of Puerto Rico's top restaurants, markets, and farms.

The episode begins with a visit to Santaella, Jose Santaella's restaurant in San Juan. Here, Pete and Jose cook up a delicious seafood dish using local ingredients like red snapper and plantains. They also talk about the history of Puerto Rican cuisine and the unique mix of African, Spanish, and indigenous influences that make it so special.

Next, Pete heads to Mercado Santurce, a bustling market in the heart of San Juan. Here, he meets up with Maria Mercedes Grubb, who takes him on a tour of the market's many stalls and introduces him to some of the vendors selling everything from fresh produce to homemade jams and jellies. Maria then takes Pete to her restaurant, Gallo Negro, where they whip up a tasty pork dish and discuss the importance of using local, sustainable ingredients.

Later, Pete and his crew head out to the countryside to visit Hacienda El Jibarito, a family-owned farm and inn located in the hills outside of San Juan. Here, they meet the owners, who take them on a tour of the property and show them how they grow and harvest their own coffee, fruits, and vegetables. Pete and the chefs then use these fresh ingredients to create a unique Puerto Rican-style barbecue feast, complete with traditional dishes like arroz con gandules (rice and pigeon peas) and pasteles (meat-filled pastries).

Throughout the episode, Pete also explores the culture and history of Puerto Rico, visiting landmarks like the San Juan Cathedral and the El Yunque National Forest. He speaks with locals about the impact of Hurricane Maria and the challenges the island has faced in its recovery, but also celebrates the resilience and strength of the people and their cuisine.

Overall, Moveable Feast with Fine Cooking season 5 episode 8 offers a fascinating glimpse into the vibrant food and culture of Puerto Rico, with mouth-watering dishes and beautiful scenery to match. It's a must-watch for foodies, travelers, and anyone interested in exploring the diverse culinary traditions of the Caribbean.