Ep 3. France - Mont Saint Michel

France is known for its rich culture, history, and most importantly, its delectable cuisine. In the third episode of Taste Hunters season 1, host Kiran Jethwa takes us on a journey to the picturesque and iconic Mont Saint Michel in France.

The episode begins with a breathtaking view of the island commune, where we're introduced to Kiran's quest to discover the taste of Mont Saint Michel. Our food-obsessed host begins his journey by exploring the tremendous variety of shellfish that thrive in the surrounding waters. The coastal line is home to one of the most diverse and delicious seafood; it's what inspired Kiran to come here in the first place.

The local fishmongers, chefs, and experts proceed to enlighten us more about the seafood in this region. Kiran prepares to explore the unique ingredients that have been crafted into exquisite dishes. We are given an in-depth look at the traditional making of the famous Breton Bisque soup. Chef Victor Loubet from Le Coquillage Restaurant demonstrates how this delicacy is made. During this tasting, we learn how each indigent is integral in providing the Bisque soup its unique taste.

Furthermore, we're introduced to the famous salt meadows of Mont Saint Michel, which are immensely significant to the region's agriculture. Salt farmers have been harvesting salt from these meadows for centuries. Kiran talks to one of the award-winning salt farmers to understand the process and taste of the salt. This leads to a conversation about the traditional salt marsh lamb raised here on this island, with a unique and one-of-a-kind flavor.

The journey further continues with Kiran's visit to a local goat farmer, producing cheese from the milk of goats who freely roam in the fields surrounding the Mont Saint Michel. Goat cheese made here is so unique, and it delights Kiran to the fullest, as he finally learns the secrets of cheese-making. This natural, outstanding cheese highlights the core gastronomical beauty of this region.

As the episode continues, we are invited into a small café where we are introduced to the famous caramel made in Mont Saint Michel. Chef Simon from La Cuisine Corsaire shares the secrets of making an extraordinary and succulent caramel that's famous across France. The unrefined, manually heated sugarcane combined with quality butter leads to an exceptional taste. Kiran explains this is his favorite dish of this journey so far.

Finally, the episode concludes with Kiran visiting the revered seaside restaurant Le Coquillage, where celebrity chef, and multiple Michelin star awardee, Chef Olivier Roellinger is the head chef. Chef Olivier Roellinger welcomes Kiran and explains his culinary vision for the restaurant. Based on a minimalist approach, Chef Roellinger emphasizes the meticulous selection of local seafood and spices. The menu has seafood and vegetarian options that each stem from Breton cuisine – delicately prepared yet undeniably delicious.

Taste Hunters season 1, episode 3 takes us on a breathtaking journey to Mont Saint Michel. We experience the excellent locally sourced seafood, salt marshes, diverse and rich flavors, and the local cuisine that has made this region famous in all of France. Kiran Jethwa's infectious curiosity energizes his search for the best of French Cuisine, which has led to an enjoyable and informative experience for us, as we vicariously taste and experience the life and culture of France, through Taste Hunters.