Primal Grill with Steven Raichlen Season 3 Episode 7 Asia's Crossroads

Primal Grill with Steven Raichlen is a television series that provides insight into the world of grilling and barbecuing. The show is hosted by Steven Raichlen, a renowned chef, cookbook author, and cooking teacher who has traveled around the world to learn about grilling techniques and traditions. In season 3 episode 7, titled "Asia's Crossroads," Raichlen explores the intersection of Asian cuisines and grilling techniques.

The episode begins with Raichlen in Hong Kong, where he samples some classic street food and meets with grill masters who specialize in traditional Chinese barbecue. He then travels to the Philippines, where he discovers a unique grilling technique for cooking whole lechon (roasted pig) and learns about the importance of communal cooking and sharing food in Filipino culture.

Next, Raichlen heads to the Indonesian island of Bali, where he encounters a type of grill called a bara, which is fueled by coconut husks and produces intense heat and smoke. He also learns about the use of spice pastes and marinades in Indonesian cuisine and how they can be used to add depth and flavor to grilled meats and seafood.

The episode then takes us to Japan, where Raichlen visits a yakitori restaurant in Tokyo and samples skewered chicken grilled over Japanese charcoal. He also learns about the art of robatayaki, a style of grilling where food is cooked over an open flame on a long wooden paddle.

Finally, Raichlen concludes his journey in South Korea, where he explores the country's obsession with barbecue and visits a market that specializes in pork belly. He then travels to a traditional Korean restaurant where he tries his hand at cooking bulgogi, a popular Korean dish of marinated beef that is grilled tableside.

Throughout the episode, Raichlen not only showcases the unique grilling techniques and flavor profiles of each cuisine but also delves into the cultural and historical significance of these traditions. By the end of the episode, viewers will have gained a new appreciation for the diverse and delicious world of Asian grilling.

Overall, "Asia's Crossroads" is an engaging and informative episode that offers a glimpse into the world of Asian grilling and the techniques and ingredients that make it so special. Raichlen's passion for grilling is infectious, and his travels and culinary explorations are sure to inspire backyard grill masters and foodies alike.