Ep 9. Sensory Overload

In the 11th season of Bizarre Foods, host Andrew Zimmern continues his journey around the world exploring unique and fascinating cuisines. In episode 9, Sensory Overload, Zimmern visits a variety of locations each offering their own sensational taste experience.

The episode kicks off with a visit to Bangkok, Thailand where Zimmern tries a dish known as "fertilized duck embryo." This dish, also known as "balut," is a fertilized egg containing a partially developed duck embryo. While some may find this concept off-putting, Zimmern is keen to explore the cultural history and significance of this dish.

Next, Zimmern travels to Brazil where he samples the traditional dish, feijoada. This hearty stew is made with black beans, pork, and beef, often including pig feet, ears, and tail. Zimmern explains the cultural significance of the dish, which was once eaten by Brazilian slaves and has since been elevated to a beloved national dish.

From Brazil, Zimmern heads to Japan to try a dish that is new even to him: whale bacon. Zimmern explores the controversy around whaling, but also notes that the consumption of whale products is still common in some parts of Japan. He savors the taste of the whale bacon, which he describes as "rich and fatty."

After Japan, Zimmern visits Uganda where he tries a unique dish called "rolex." Contrary to what the name suggests, this dish has nothing to do with watches. Instead, it is a type of street food consisting of a fried egg rolled up in a chapati. The dish is filling and delicious, and Zimmern marvels at the ingenuity of the Ugandan street vendors who create it.

Finally, Zimmern finishes the episode in Mexico, where he explores the intricacies of mole. This complex sauce is made with a variety of ingredients, including chiles, nuts, and chocolate. Zimmern visits a local market where he tastes different variations of mole and learns about the cultural significance of the dish.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern immerses himself in the local culture and is always eager to learn more about the significance of the food he is eating. He tries dishes that some viewers may find strange or even off-putting, but he approaches each one with a sense of curiosity and openness. The result is an engaging and informative exploration of the world's diverse culinary traditions.