Ep 1. Tucson: Gateway to Sonora

Pati's Mexican Table season 9 episode 1 is titled "Tucson: Gateway to Sonora." In this episode, Chef Pati travels to Tucson, Arizona, which is known as the gateway to the northern Mexican state of Sonora. She explores the rich culinary traditions that have developed in this region through centuries of cross-border exchange and collaboration. Pati meets with local chefs and home cooks who share their family recipes and techniques, such as barbacoa-style beef, chiltepin salsa, and bacanora, a traditional Sonoran spirit.

Pati also learns about the history of Tucson and its connection to Mexico, visiting landmarks such as the San Xavier Mission and the El Tiradito shrine. As she cooks and eats her way through Tucson, Pati reflects on the ways in which food and culture can transcend political boundaries and bring people together. Whether she's sampling gooey queso fundido or tamales de elote, Pati celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of the cuisine of the borderlands.

Throughout the episode, Pati highlights the flavors and ingredients that make Sonoran cuisine unique, such as mesquite flour, agave syrup, and cactus paddles. She also shares tips for cooking with these ingredients at home, demonstrating how to make dishes like carne asada and frijoles de la olla. As always, Pati's warm and engaging personality shines through as she connects with her hosts and shares her love of Mexican food and culture.

Overall, "Tucson: Gateway to Sonora" is a delicious and informative exploration of the rich culinary heritage of this unique region. Whether you're a lifelong fan of Mexican cuisine or a curious culinary traveler, Pati's Mexican Table season 9 episode 1 is an excellent introduction to the flavors and traditions of the borderlands.