Ep 8. A Sultan's View of Andalucia

Spain...On the Road Again is a travel and culinary show that follows four famous personalities- Gwyneth Paltrow, celebrity chef Mario Batali, food critic Mark Bittman, and Spanish actress Claudia Bassols, as they explore the flavors, sights, sounds and traditions of Spain. Season 1 episode 8, titled "A Sultan's View of Andalucia," takes the viewers on a journey to the south of Spain, to the region of Andalusia, where the group gets to experience the Moorish influences on Spanish culture.

The episode begins with the team visiting the stunning Alhambra palace complex in Granada, which was built by the Moors in the 14th century. They are awed by the intricate carvings, the serene gardens, and the stunning views of Granada from the palace. Claudia explains how the Moors' occupation of Spain in the Middle Ages influenced the Spanish language, architecture, and cuisine. Mario, being the resident chef, is particularly interested in the spices and ingredients brought by the Moors and how they have become a staple in Spanish cooking.

Next, the team heads to the picturesque city of Antequera, where they meet a local family who introduce them to the art of country cooking. They are taught how to make a traditional Spanish dish, Migas, which is a hearty breakfast dish made of bread, garlic, and chorizo. The team is amazed at how simple yet delicious the dish turns out to be.

The group then travels to the historic city of Cordoba, where they visit the Great Mosque of Cordoba, one of the most striking examples of Islamic architecture in the world. They meet a local historian who tells them about the significance of the mosque and how it has been used as a place of worship by the Moors and Christians throughout history. Mark is fascinated by the intricate details of the mosque and learns about the blend of cultures that the building represents.

In Cordoba, the group also visits a traditional market and meets a spice seller who introduces them to the world of exotic spices and herbs used in Spanish cooking. He talks about the different types of saffron, which is the most expensive spice in the world, and explains how to recognize its quality.

The final destination of the episode is the coastal city of Malaga, where the team visits the Alcazaba, a palatial fortress built in the 11th century by the Moors. Gwyneth marvels at the stunning views of the Mediterranean from the fortress and the group enjoys a traditional Moroccan tea on the terrace. Claudia explains how the Moors brought exotic fruits and nuts to Spain, which are now widely used in Spanish cuisine.

The episode concludes with the team enjoying a seaside lunch of fresh seafood, including paella, which is a Spanish rice dish made with saffron. Mario teaches the group about the different types of paella and how to cook it to perfection. The team reflects on their trip to Andalusia and how the Moors' presence has left a lasting impact on Spanish culture.

In conclusion, "A Sultan's View of Andalucia" is an informative and enjoyable episode that provides a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Andalusia. The team's journey through the landmarks and traditional markets of the region, as well as the culinary lessons they receive, offer an immersive experience to the viewers. The show successfully captures the beauty and complexity of Spanish culture and promises to be a treat for travel enthusiasts and foodies alike.