Ep 9. Isla Mujeres Inspired

Pati's Mexican Table season 5 episode 9, titled "Isla Mujeres Inspired," follows Pati Jinich, the host of the show, as she travels to Isla Mujeres, an island off the coast of Cancun, Mexico. Pati explores the island's rich culinary traditions and meets local chefs and fishermen along the way.

The episode begins with Pati taking a ferry to Isla Mujeres, where she meets up with a local chef named Enrique Lima. Together, they visit a local fish market to pick up fresh seafood for their upcoming cooking lesson. Pati learns about the different types of fish and how they are traditionally prepared in Isla Mujeres.

Next, Pati and Enrique head to his restaurant, Limon, where he teaches her how to prepare a traditional Isla Mujeres seafood dish called Tikin Xic. They marinate fish in a paste made from achiote, citrus juice, and spices, then grill it over an open flame. Pati also learns how to make a delicious side dish of fried plantains with cotija cheese and a sweet and spicy salsa.

The episode then shifts to Pati meeting with a group of female fishermen who are part of a cooperative on the island. They take Pati out on their small boats to show her how they catch shrimp and fish using traditional methods. Pati learns about the importance of sustainable fishing and the cooperative's efforts to preserve the local ecosystem.

After a day of fishing, Pati heads to a beachside restaurant called Playa Lancheros, where she meets its owner and chef, Rosa Mexicano. Rosa teaches Pati how to make a unique and flavorful dish called Pescado a la Tikin Xic con Cocoyol, which is similar to Tikin Xic but includes a special ingredient called cocoyol, the fruit of the palm tree. They also make a side dish of chayote salad with cilantro and lime dressing.

The final segment of the episode follows Pati as she heads to a local home kitchen to learn how to make a homemade sauce called Salsa de Azafran. She meets with a local woman named Margarita, who shows her how to grind fresh ingredients like garlic, toasted bread, and saffron to make the savory sauce. Pati then uses the sauce to make a simple yet delicious dish of chicken and mushrooms.

Throughout the episode, Pati emphasizes the importance of the connection between food and culture. She learns about the history and traditions of Isla Mujeres through its rich culinary heritage and the people who keep it alive. The episode highlights the beauty and diversity of Mexican cuisine while inspiring viewers to appreciate and explore their own culinary roots.