Ep 4. Chinese

Food(ography) is a delectable food show that explores the origins and cultural significance of classic cuisine. In Season 3, Episode 4, the focus is on Chinese cuisine and the traditions that go along with it.

The episode opens with stunning imagery of bustling Chinese markets and street vendors, all selling fragrant and delicious food. The host, Ali Khan, takes viewers on a culinary journey through the varied regions of China, starting with the north and working his way down to the south.

The first dish he explores is Beijing-style roast duck, a dish that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. Khan visits a restaurant that has been perfecting the dish for over 150 years and gets a behind-the-scenes look at the intricate preparation process.

Next, Khan heads to the city of Xi’an to try biang biang noodles, a regional specialty that is known for its wide, flat shape. He visits a family-owned restaurant that has been making noodles by hand for over 20 years and dives into the cultural history of the dish.

The episode then takes a turn to explore the vegetarian side of Chinese cuisine, visiting a Buddhist temple in Hong Kong to learn about how monks utilize food as a form of meditation and spiritual practice. Here, Khan tastes a variety of vegetarian dishes that are both healthy and delicious.

Of course, no exploration of Chinese cuisine would be complete without a visit to a dim sum restaurant. Khan goes to a bustling dim sum spot in Guangzhou and tries a variety of mouth-watering dishes, including steamed pork buns and shrimp dumplings.

Another traditional Chinese food is congee, a rice porridge that is often eaten in the morning. Khan visits a street vendor in Shanghai who has been selling congee for over 50 years and learns about its significance in Chinese culture.

But the episode doesn’t just stop at traditional dishes. Khan also explores modern takes on Chinese cuisine, like a hip fusion restaurant in Beijing that combines Chinese flavors with global ingredients. He also visits a restaurant in Shanghai that specializes in a unique type of cuisine called Huaiyang, which is known for its emphasis on texture and presentation.

Throughout the episode, Khan weaves in tidbits of Chinese history and cultural significance, from the use of chopsticks to the role of food in Chinese festivals and celebrations.

Food(ography) Season 3 Episode 4 is a must-watch for foodies and cultural enthusiasts alike, with its mouth-watering dishes and in-depth exploration of the importance of food in Chinese culture.