Ep 14. Kalahari

In Bizarre Foods season 6 episode 14, Kalahari, host Andrew Zimmern takes viewers on a culinary journey through the deserts of Botswana. This episode showcases the unique and unusual food culture of the Kalahari, including dishes made from game meats and indigenous plants.

Andrew starts his journey at a market, where he samples roasted mopane worms, a traditional dish in the region. He then visits a hunting camp, where African hunters teach him how to track and hunt game animals like wildebeest and kudu. Andrew observes how the hunters use every part of the animal, including the organs, to create meals.

Next, Andrew heads to a local village and learns about the traditional method of cooking meats in a pit oven. He also tries traditional dishes like seswaa, a slow-cooked beef stew that is considered a staple food in Botswana. Andrew is amazed at the resourcefulness of the people in this region and how they have learned to work with what nature has provided.

The episode also delves into the use of indigenous plants in the Kalahari cuisine. Andrew meets with a local botanist who shows him how to identify and cook with various plants, which are used for medicinal purposes as well. He even tries a traditional drink made from the fruit of the baobab tree, which is known for its high nutritional value.

Throughout the episode, Andrew emphasizes the importance of preserving these unique and rare food cultures. He discusses the challenges facing the Kalahari region, such as desertification and loss of traditional hunting grounds due to overgrazing. Andrew's hope is that by showcasing the beauty and diversity of the food culture, viewers will be inspired to help preserve it for future generations.

Overall, Bizarre Foods season 6 episode 14, Kalahari, offers a fascinating look into the distinctive food culture of Botswana's Kalahari desert. Andrew Zimmern's enthusiasm and respect for the region and its people make for an engaging and educational viewing experience.