Ep 5. Birmingham, Alabama

Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern takes viewers on a culinary journey around the world, seeking out unique and unusual foods that many people have never even heard of. In season 10, episode 5, titled "Birmingham, Alabama," Andrew explores the food culture of the southern city.

To begin his culinary tour of Birmingham, Andrew visits a local seafood market to explore the catch of the day. He meets with a group of fishermen who supply the market with fresh seafood straight from the Gulf of Mexico. Andrew learns about the different varieties of fish found in the Gulf and how they are used in southern cuisine.

Next, Andrew heads to a local restaurant that specializes in "meat and three" cuisine, a southern staple that consists of a meat dish and three vegetable side dishes. He samples a variety of dishes, including fried chicken, collard greens, and black-eyed peas. Andrew learns about the origins of meat and three cuisine and how it has become an important part of southern culture.

Andrew also visits a local BBQ joint that serves up some of the best smoked meat in town. He learns about the different types of wood used to smoke the meat and how they create unique flavors. Andrew samples a variety of BBQ dishes, including brisket, pulled pork, and ribs.

In addition to traditional southern cuisine, Andrew also explores the diverse food scene in Birmingham. He visits a restaurant that serves up authentic Korean dishes, including kimchi and bulgogi. Andrew learns about the history of Korean immigrants in Birmingham and how they have influenced the local food culture.

Andrew also meets with a group of chefs who are reviving the African American foodways of the south. They explain how dishes like okra stew and black-eyed pea fritters are an important part of southern culinary history, and how they are working to keep these traditions alive.

Throughout the episode, Andrew also explores the unique flavors and ingredients that are found in Birmingham's food scene. He samples dishes like fried green tomatoes, pimento cheese, and boiled peanuts. Andrew also learns about the role that food plays in the city's culture and how it brings people together.

In the end, Andrew comes away with a greater appreciation for the diversity and richness of Birmingham's food scene. From traditional southern cuisine to international flavors, Birmingham offers a unique culinary experience that is not to be missed.