Ep 12. Morocco Off the Menu

In Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted season 1 episode 12, titled "Morocco Off the Menu," the fiery chef heads to the vibrant and exotic country of Morocco. In this episode, Ramsay's mission is to explore the traditional flavors and culinary traditions of Morocco, and to find unique ingredients to incorporate into his own dishes.

The episode kicks off with Ramsay visiting a bustling fish market in the coastal city of Essaouira. He quickly takes a liking to the fresh seafood on offer, and is impressed by the skill of the local fishermen who have been hauling in their daily catch for generations. Ramsay picks out a few choice specimens, including some large red mullet and a huge squid, which he will use in his next dish.

Next, Ramsay travels to a rural village in the Atlas Mountains, where he meets a local farmer who shows him how to harvest saffron, one of the most expensive spices in the world. Ramsay is amazed by the delicate process of extracting the precious threads from the crocus flowers, and gets to taste a dish made with the saffron-infused grains of couscous.

From the mountains, Ramsay heads to Marrakesh, where he explores the colorful souks and marketplaces and learns the art of bartering with the local traders. He picks up some rare spices and herbs, some beautiful zellige ceramics, and some freshly baked breads and pastries. Ramsay also visits a local tannery, where he sees the traditional process of turning animal hides into leather using natural dyes and processes.

Back in the kitchen, Ramsay gets to work on his first dish, a seafood tagine with red mullet, squid, and saffron-infused couscous. He also puts together a Moroccan-style lamb dish, using harissa, preserved lemons, and olives. Ramsay is particularly impressed by how well these bold flavors come together, and he adds a few of his own twists to the recipes, including a touch of honey and some fresh herbs.

Finally, Ramsay heads to the Sahara Desert, where he meets a group of nomads who have been living off the land for generations. He learns how to make a classic Moroccan dish called tagra, which is essentially a slow-cooked stew made with lamb, potatoes, and vegetables. The nomads also teach Ramsay how to make tea the traditional way, using fresh mint and lots of sugar, and he is amazed by the sweet and refreshing flavor of the drink.

Overall, "Morocco Off the Menu" is a fascinating look at the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Morocco, and how they have been passed down through generations. Ramsay's enthusiasm and passion for discovering new flavors and ingredients is infectious, and viewers will come away with a new appreciation for Moroccan cuisine and culture.