Ep 1. Phuket, Thailand
- TV-PG
- September 9, 2008
- 43 min
-
7.0 (8)
In season 3 episode 1 of Bizarre Foods, host Andrew Zimmern travels to Phuket, Thailand to explore the unique and diverse cuisine of the region. As soon as he arrives, Zimmern heads straight to the local market, where he is immediately struck by the vibrant colors and exotic fruits and vegetables on display. With the help of his guide, he begins to sample some of the more unusual items available, including durian, a pungent and notorious fruit that is beloved by some and reviled by others. From the market, Zimmern ventures into the streets of Phuket, where he is introduced to a variety of street food vendors and their wares. He tries everything from grilled squid to fried insect larvae, and is constantly amazed by both the variety and complexity of the flavors he encounters. But it's not just about the food for Zimmern - he also takes time to explore the culture and traditions of the region. He visits a local temple where he learns about the importance of Buddhism in Thai society, and participates in a traditional water blessing ceremony. He also explores the local craft scene, visiting a pottery village and trying his hand at creating a piece of traditional Thai pottery. Throughout the episode, Zimmern's enthusiasm and curiosity is contagious, and viewers are sure to come away with a greater appreciation for the rich and diverse culture of Phuket, as well as an increased appetite for its unique cuisine.