Ep 1. Peru's Sacred Valley
- TV14
- July 21, 2019
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7.9 (180)
In the first episode of Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted, the celebrity chef ventures into the heart of Peru's Sacred Valley to explore the unique flavors and ingredients that make up the local cuisine.
Upon arriving in the picturesque valley, Ramsay meets his guide and fellow chef, Virgilio Martinez, who takes him on a thrilling adventure through the Andes Mountains in search of ingredients for their first meal. Competing with the altitude, Ramsay struggles with the physical challenges of hiking and foraging, but ultimately finds success in locating unique herbs, grains, and vegetables.
With their ingredients collected, the pair set up camp and begin to cook a traditional Peruvian meal using only ancient Incan techniques. Ramsay is amazed by the inventive methods used by the local cooks, such as cooking with volcanic rocks and burying food underground for hours. As he assists in the preparation of the meal, Ramsay learns about the cultural significance of each dish and the stories behind the ingredients.
The day continues with Ramsay and Martinez visiting local communities and processing plants to understand the complex process behind creating important Peruvian staples, such as quinoa and chocolate. They also pay a visit to a 'chicha' brewery, where they learn about a traditional drink made from corn and brewed by the women in the community.
Finally, Ramsay and Martinez host a communal feast with the community members they have met throughout the day. The locals are amazed and grateful for Ramsay's presence, and the time he has taken to learn about their culture and food. They enjoy a feast of dishes made by Ramsay and Martinez, and Ramsay is proud to have been able to experience and share in such a unique food culture.
Overall, the first episode of Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted offers a fascinating insight into the traditional food culture of the Sacred Valley in Peru. Ramsay's enthusiasm and willingness to learn about the ingredients and techniques used by the locals make for an enjoyable and educational experience. The stunning visuals of the Andes Mountains and the colorful markets and communities throughout the valley add to the show's overall appeal.