Ep 3. Celestun -- Coastal Cooking

Pati's Mexican Table Season 5 Episode 3 "Celestun -- Coastal Cooking" features Pati Jinich, a Mexican-born chef, traveling to the beautiful fishing village of Celestun on the Yucatan Peninsula. This episode focuses on the coastal cuisine of Mexico and how the local people in Celestun incorporate seafood and produce into their daily meals.

Pati begins by visiting a local market to pick up fresh ingredients, including red snapper, coconut milk, and jicama, a root vegetable commonly used in Mexican cooking. She then heads to a local restaurant to try some traditional Yucatecan dishes, such as Papadzules, which are corn tortillas filled with egg and pumpkin seed sauce, and Sikil Pak, a dip made from roasted pumpkin seeds.

Next, Pati meets up with a local fisherman who takes her out on his boat to show her how he catches shrimp and other seafood. She learns how to make a delicious seafood ceviche, using freshly caught shrimp, lime juice, and chile peppers.

Back on land, Pati visits a family who makes smoked fish on their farm using traditional techniques. The fish is smoked over a wood fire for several hours, which gives it a unique smoky flavor. Pati works with the family to create a simple yet delicious smoked fish salad using the smoked fish, tomatoes, avocados, and a tangy dressing made from lime juice and olive oil.

Finally, at a local restaurant, Pati learns how to make a refreshing coconut and jicama salad, which is perfect for a hot summer day. She also prepares a red snapper dish, which is cooked in a banana leaf with achiote paste, a blend of spices that gives the fish a beautiful red color.

Throughout the episode, Pati highlights the importance of fresh ingredients, and how the cuisine of Celestun has been influenced by the local environment and food traditions. The dishes she prepares are simple yet flavorful, showcasing the beauty and diversity of Mexican coastal cuisine.

Overall, Pati's Mexican Table Season 5 Episode 3 "Celestun -- Coastal Cooking" is a must-see for anyone who loves seafood and wants to learn about the culinary traditions of Mexico's Yucatecan coast. With its stunning scenery, fresh ingredients, and delicious dishes, it's a feast for the senses that is not to be missed.