Watch Undiscovered Haiti with Jose Andres
- 2015
- 1 Season
Undiscovered Haiti with Jose Andres is a docuseries that takes viewers on a journey through the vibrant and diverse country of Haiti. The show follows celebrated chef, humanitarian, and founder of World Central Kitchen, José Andrés, as he ventures off the beaten path to explore Haiti's hidden culinary and cultural treasures.
The series comprises six episodes, each focusing on a different region of the country and its unique cuisine, music, traditions, and stories. José travels to remote villages, bustling markets, scenic landscapes, and historic landmarks, meeting with locals, celebrating their culture, and discovering the roots of their cuisine.
In the first episode, titled "The Art of Living," José takes viewers to the northern coast of Haiti, where he learns about the tradition of "Lakou," a communal living system that fosters a sense of belonging and self-sufficiency. He visits a farm run by a group of women who use sustainable and organic methods to grow a variety of fruits and vegetables, including plantains, cassava, and yams. José also meets a fisherman who uses a unique fishing method that he inherited from his ancestors and enjoys a seafood feast with the villagers.
The second episode, "Hidden Treasures," showcases the southeastern region of Haiti, where José discovers the rich history and culture of a town called Jacmel. He visits a workshop where artisans create intricate masks and costumes for the annual carnival celebration, which blends African, French, and indigenous customs. José also visits a coffee plantation where he learns about the complex process of growing, harvesting, and roasting coffee beans and enjoys a cup of freshly brewed coffee with the farmers.
The third episode, "The Voodoo Connection," explores the central plains of Haiti, where José delves into the mystical and misunderstood religion of Voodoo. He meets with a Voodoo priest and learns about the rituals, beliefs, and practices that have survived centuries of oppression and stigma. José also visits a sugar cane plantation and tries his hand at making rum, a popular spirit in Haiti.
The fourth episode, "In the Shadow of the Citadel," takes José to the north-central region of Haiti, where he visits the historic site of the Citadelle Laferrière, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the early 19th century. He learns about the legacy of Haiti's revolutionary leader, Toussaint Louverture, and the brave soldiers who defended the fortress against invading forces. José also explores the nearby town of Milot and tastes its famous specialty, fried pork.
The fifth episode, "The Sea Inside," showcases the southern coast of Haiti, where José discovers the pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life that make Haiti a paradise for seafood lovers. He goes fishing with a local fisherman who uses traditional nets and hooks and learns about the different kinds of fish, lobsters, and conches that inhabit the waters. José also visits a beachside restaurant and savors a seafood platter with a Haitian twist.
The final episode, "Eternal Spring," takes viewers to the cool and lush mountains of Haiti's southwestern region, where José explores the coffee culture and agricultural diversity of the area. He visits a cooperative that produces high-quality organic coffee and meets with a farmer who specializes in growing an exotic fruit called soursop. José also attends a community fair and tastes various dishes made with fresh ingredients from the region.
Overall, Undiscovered Haiti with Jose Andres offers a unique and immersive perspective on a country that is often overlooked or stereotyped in the media. Through the lens of food and culture, the series celebrates the resilience, creativity, and beauty of the Haitian people and invites viewers to discover the undiscovered gems of this Caribbean nation.
Undiscovered Haiti with Jose Andres is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between September 1, 2015 and on