The Taste of Kashi – Episode 3: Sweet Strangers

The Taste of Kashi is a new unscripted series by CGTN that takes the form of a thrilling 100-hour challenge in the desert city of Kashi, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Nadim Diab, a journalist, content creator and coffee lover, faces an ambitious task: to craft a brew that captures the essence of this storied city. With the clock ticking, Nadim must navigate an unfamiliar landscape to draw inspiration – and ingredients – from the local culture and people. Luckily, help is never too far away.

Nadim knows the components of his new creation are hidden in plain sight somewhere in the city. He just needs to find them. Episode 3 is all about market research, and a string of chance encounters helps our amateur barista connect the dots. A potter introduces him to rustic clay cups made from local soil, the perfect vessels for his upcoming drink. At a nearby café, an unusual brew featuring 18 local ingredients sparks a lightbulb moment. And at a medicinal tea shop, Nadim's enthusiasm takes over as he scoops up warm spices, therapeutic herbs, and flowers in wild colors. But with so many ideas brewing, has he taken on more than he can handle?

More from The Taste of Kashi:

Episode 1: A Mystery Brews

Episode 2: Plums, Pain and Possibilities