Ep 1. Chachi's Champoton Kitchen

Pati's Mexican Table is back for its 5th season, and it kicks off with an exciting episode titled "Chachi's Champoton Kitchen." The show, hosted by Mexican chef and author Pati Jinich, takes viewers on a culinary journey across Mexico while sharing traditional recipes and techniques from her heritage.

In this episode, Pati visits Champoton, a small town on the coast of Campeche, in search of delicious and authentic local cuisine. She is joined by her friend Chachi, who is a local cook and expert on the cuisine of Champoton.

Together, Pati and Chachi explore the local market, where they find an abundance of fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables. Chachi reveals the secrets behind some of the signature dishes of Champoton, such as pan de cazón, a layered dish made with shark meat, and empanadas de plátano macho, a crispy, savory treat stuffed with plantains.

Back in Chachi's kitchen, Pati watches as Chachi prepares a typical breakfast of Huevos Motuleños, fried eggs served on a bed of black beans, tortillas, and plantains, topped with a rich tomato sauce and crumbled cheese. As they cook, Chachi shares stories of her own upbringing in Champoton and how food has always been a central part of her life.

Next, Pati and Chachi prepare a feast for the whole family, including Chachi's seven children and numerous grandchildren. They create a variety of dishes, such as Pescado al Coco, fish cooked in a rich and creamy coconut sauce, and Chilpachole de Jaiba, a spicy crab soup made with aromatic herbs and spices.

Throughout the episode, Pati and Chachi's passion for Mexican cuisine and their love of sharing their knowledge and traditions shines through. They provide insights into the unique culinary heritage of Champoton, and the importance of cooking with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The episode concludes with a heartwarming scene of the extended family coming together to enjoy the meal that Pati and Chachi have prepared. It's clear that food is not just about sustenance in Champoton, but a way of bringing people together and celebrating life.

Overall, "Chachi's Champoton Kitchen" is a fantastic start to Pati's Mexican Table's 5th season. It's an engaging and informative episode that showcases the beauty and complexity of Mexican cuisine, and the importance of preserving traditional recipes and techniques.