Rick Stein's Road To Mexico Season 1 Episode 3 San Diego to Baja California

Rick Stein's Road to Mexico is a TV series that explores the vibrant and diverse cuisine of Mexico, following in the footsteps of legendary food writer and chef Diana Kennedy. In season 1 episode 3, titled San Diego to Baja California, Rick Stein continues his journey through California and Mexico, experiencing some of the country's most fascinating and delicious dishes along the way.

The episode kicks off in San Diego, where Rick explores the city's Mexican food scene, which has been heavily influenced by the proximity to Tijuana, Mexico. He visits a popular taco shop where he tastes some delicious fish tacos and learns about the different types of tacos that are popular in Mexico.

From San Diego, Rick travels south to Baja California, the peninsula that separates the Pacific Ocean from the Gulf of California. He starts his journey in the town of Ensenada, where he meets Chef Benito Molina at his renowned restaurant Manzanilla. Chef Benito prepares a mouth-watering seafood feast for Rick, including sea urchin tostadas, grilled octopus, and lobster.

Next, Rick heads to the Valle de Guadalupe, a fertile wine and agricultural region located in the heart of Baja California. The valley is home to numerous wineries and restaurants, making it a foodie destination. Rick visits Laja, a farm-to-table restaurant that is renowned for its cuisine inspired by the region's local ingredients. Here, Rick tries a range of dishes from roasted beets to lamb barbacoa.

The episode also showcases some of the incredible landscapes of Baja California, including the Cardón cactus forest, the Punta Banda peninsula, and the Pacific coastline. Rick experiences the local seafood delicacies of the coastal towns, such as grilled sea bass, shrimp tacos, and oysters.

Throughout the episode, Rick delves into the history and culture of the area, learning about the indigenous communities and their culinary traditions. He also showcases the impact of Mexican cuisine on the United States, especially in California, which has a strong Mexican influence.

Overall, San Diego to Baja California is a fascinating and delicious episode in the series, showcasing the diversity and richness of Mexican cuisine, and its deep roots in local history and culture. Rick Stein's Road to Mexico is a must-watch for foodies and culture enthusiasts alike.