Ep 6. Lebanon's Crisis Diet

Counter Space season 1 episode 6, titled "Lebanon's Crisis Diet," explores the food crisis that has arisen in Lebanon due to economic struggles and political instability. Host and chef, Sophia Roe, travels to Beirut to meet with locals and learn how they are adapting to the situation.

The episode begins with Roe visiting a local produce market where she meets an entrepreneur who founded a community-supported agriculture program. The program aims to support local farmers and provide fresh produce to customers at a fair price. Roe also meets with a chef who has started a pop-up restaurant that features traditional Lebanese cuisine, but with a modern twist. The chef explains that he wants to showcase Lebanon's cultural heritage while also catering to younger and more globally-minded diners.

As Roe walks through the city, she sees firsthand the effects of the food crisis. Many restaurants and shops have closed down, and food prices have skyrocketed. She meets with a family who rely on a government food assistance program, which provides a monthly ration of basic food items such as rice, flour, and oil. The family discusses the challenges they face in trying to make these limited supplies last throughout the month.

Next, Roe visits a food bank that has been set up by a local NGO to provide emergency food assistance to those most in need. The food bank is staffed by volunteers who sort and distribute donated food items. Roe talks to the volunteers about the importance of community support during times of crisis.

Later in the episode, Roe attends a cooking workshop where a group of young Lebanese women are learning how to make traditional dishes from scratch. The workshop is led by a local chef who emphasizes the importance of preserving Lebanon's culinary heritage. The women share stories about their families' cooking traditions and the role that food plays in their lives. Roe is struck by the resilience and creativity of the Lebanese people in the face of adversity.

The episode concludes with Roe reflecting on the lessons she has learned during her time in Beirut. She emphasizes the importance of supporting local agriculture and small businesses, and encourages viewers to be mindful of where their food comes from. She also highlights the vital role that food plays in bringing people together and building community.

Overall, "Lebanon's Crisis Diet" is a powerful and timely exploration of the ways in which food can both reflect and shape a society. Through her conversations with locals and her observations of the city, Roe gives viewers a glimpse into the challenges faced by the people of Lebanon, while also celebrating their resilience, creativity, and love of food.