Ep 7. The Fish Chronicles

On Kimchi Chronicles season 1 episode 7 titled "The Fish Chronicles," viewers are taken on a culinary journey through the seafood-rich province of Jeollanamdo. The episode begins with host Marja Vongerichten visiting a local fish market, where she is introduced to a variety of fresh seafood, including octopus and sea squirts. She then travels to a small fishing village where she learns about the traditional methods of catching and preparing seafood.

Next, Marja visits a family-run restaurant that has been serving jeonbokjuk, a type of thick seafood porridge, for generations. She observes as the owner prepares the dish and learns about the health benefits of the ingredients, which include abalone and rice.

The episode also features a segment on bibimbap, a popular Korean dish made with rice, vegetables, and meat. Marja visits a restaurant specializing in bibimbap and watches as the delicate ingredients are carefully arranged in a hot stone bowl before being mixed together and served.

Later in the episode, Marja visits the city of Mokpo, which is known for its seafood stew called hoe guk. She visits a restaurant that has been serving the dish for over 40 years and observes as the skilled chef prepares the stew using a variety of seafood, including raw fish and octopus.

The episode also includes a visit to a traditional Korean home, where Marja learns how to prepare a fish soup using fermented soybean paste. The dish, called cheonggukjang-jjigae, is a staple in Korean cuisine and is known for its strong, pungent flavor.

Finally, Marja visits a coastal town known for its grilled fish. She observes as a local chef grills fresh fish over an open flame, using a unique blend of spices and seasonings to enhance the flavor. The episode ends with Marja enjoying a meal of grilled fish with a group of locals, highlighting the communal nature of Korean cuisine.

Overall, "The Fish Chronicles" episode of Kimchi Chronicles provides a comprehensive look at the rich seafood culture of Jeollanamdo, highlighting traditional dishes and cooking methods that have been passed down for generations. Viewers are sure to be inspired by the diverse range of flavors and ingredients showcased in this episode.