Ep 8. Minas Gerais, Brazil

In the eighth episode of season 8 of Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, the famed traveler and culinary adventurer visits Minas Gerais, Brazil, a landlocked state in southeastern Brazil known for its rich musical history and diverse cuisine. Bourdain visits the town of Tiradentes, home to a vibrant food scene and a unique history that dates back to the early days of Brazil's colonial period.

Bourdain starts his journey by attending a traditional music festival in Tiradentes, where he enjoys a variety of local performances and meets with local musicians to learn more about the region's rich musical heritage. From there, he heads to the nearby town of Congonhas to visit the Basilica do Senhor Bom Jesus de Matosinhos, a spectacular church that features the largest collection of Baroque statues in all of Brazil.

But it's Minas Gerais' food culture that truly captivates Bourdain. He visits a local culinary school to learn about the state's unique ingredients, which include everything from traditional beans and rice dishes to exotic fruits like cajá, a type of sour mango. He also samples a traditional pork dish called leitão à pururuca, which is cooked in a clay oven and then deep-fried to achieve a crispy, crackling skin.

Throughout his journey, Bourdain meets with a wide range of locals to get a better sense of life in Minas Gerais. He visits a local favela to learn about the challenges facing the state's poorest residents, and he explores the region's complex racial history by speaking with members of the local Afro-Brazilian community.

Despite the challenges faced by many Minas Gerais residents, Bourdain finds that the state's deep cultural traditions and unique cuisine have remained strong over the years, providing a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors willing to venture off the beaten path.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain's trademark wit and insight are on full display as he explores the many facets of this fascinating Brazilian state. Whether he's indulging in a delicious meal or soaking up the sights and sounds of Tirandentes, Bourdain proves once again that he is one of the best ambassadors for travel and cuisine in the world today.