Ep 2. Episode 2

Food Safari is a popular Australian television series that explores the diverse cuisines of Australia and the world. Each episode focuses on a specific cuisine or ingredient, showcasing its history, cultural significance, and how it is used in various dishes.

In season 1 episode 2, viewers are taken on a culinary journey to explore the flavors of Korea. Host Maeve O'Meara visits Korean restaurants, supermarkets, and cultural events to learn about the unique ingredients and dishes that make up the country's cuisine.

The episode begins with Maeve visiting a traditional Korean barbecue restaurant in Sydney, where she watches as her host cooks slabs of marinated meat on a sizzling hot plate. She learns about the importance of marination in Korean cuisine, and how it helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

Maeve then visits a Korean supermarket, where she marvels at the array of ingredients on offer. She is particularly interested in the various types of soy sauce and gochujang (a spicy, fermented chili paste) that are used in many Korean dishes.

Next, Maeve visits a Korean cultural event, where she samples a variety of street foods, including kimbap (a type of rolled rice dish) and tteok-bokki (stir-fried rice cakes in a spicy sauce). She also watches as a group of performers demonstrate traditional Korean drumming and dance.

Continuing her exploration of Korean cuisine, Maeve visits a restaurant specializing in Korean soups and stews. Here, she tries a hearty bowl of beef and radish soup, which is simmered for hours to develop a rich, comforting flavor.

Maeve also learns about the importance of side dishes in Korean cuisine, and visits a Korean home to see how they are made. She watches as her host prepares a variety of banchan, or small dishes that are served alongside the main meal. These include kimchi (fermented vegetables), pickled cucumber, and spinach in sesame oil.

The episode ends with Maeve learning about the traditional Korean rice wine, makgeolli, and visiting a brewery to see how it is made. She observes as the rice is first steamed and then mixed with yeast to begin the fermentation process. She then samples the finished product, which has a slightly sweet, slightly sour taste and a low alcohol content.

Overall, season 1 episode 2 of Food Safari is a fascinating exploration of Korean cuisine, highlighting the unique ingredients, techniques, and flavors that make it so distinct. Maeve O'Meara is a knowledgeable and engaging host, and viewers are sure to come away from the episode with a newfound appreciation for all things Korean.