Take Out With Lisa Ling Season 1 Episode 6 Korean American Dream

As a prominent journalist and television host, Lisa Ling has made a name for herself exploring different cultures and societal issues in her various shows. In her newest venture, Take Out With Lisa Ling, she delves into the world of food and its impact on culture and community. Each episode focuses on a particular type of cuisine and its unique significance to the people who create and consume it. In season 1 episode 6, titled Korean American Dream, Ling explores the vibrant and evolving Korean food scene in Los Angeles.

As the episode begins, Ling sets the stage by discussing the history of Korean migration to the United States. She explains that many Koreans came to the US in search of better economic opportunities in the aftermath of the Korean War. However, they faced discrimination and prejudice, especially in the early years of their arrival. Despite this, they built communities and worked hard to create a sense of belonging in their new home.

Ling then introduces us to her first guest, Roy Choi, a Korean American chef who has made a name for himself in the culinary world by blending traditional Korean flavors with modern cooking techniques. Choi explains that he grew up eating traditional Korean food at home, but as he got older, he became interested in experimenting with different ingredients and techniques. He opened his own Korean-Mexican fusion food truck, Kogi, which quickly gained a cult following in LA. He has since gone on to open several restaurants, including Best Friend, a Korean BBQ joint inspired by the flavors of his childhood.

Next, Ling visits the Korean American Museum in Koreatown, where she learns about the history of Korean immigration and the ways in which Koreans have influenced Los Angeles culture. She speaks with a curator who explains that Korean Americans have made significant contributions to the city's food scene, but have often been overlooked in favor of other cuisines. However, in recent years, Korean food has gained popularity and respect in Los Angeles and beyond.

Ling's next stop is at the home of a Korean American family, where she learns how to make traditional dishes like mandu (dumplings) and bulgogi (marinated beef). She speaks with the family members about their experiences assimilating to American culture while still maintaining their Korean identity. They explain that food has been an important way for them to connect with their cultural heritage and pass it down to future generations.

At a Korean market, Ling meets with a young entrepreneur who has created a line of Korean-inspired hot sauces. He explains that he was inspired by his mother's cooking and wanted to create a product that could showcase the bold flavors of Korean cuisine. She also speaks with a restaurant owner who specializes in bibimbap, a popular Korean rice dish that is customizable to individual tastes. He explains that he wanted to create a restaurant that offered healthy, affordable food that people could customize to their liking.

The episode ends with Ling reflecting on the ways in which Korean Americans have used food to build community and celebrate their culture. She notes that while Korean food may have once been seen as exotic or niche, it has now become an integral part of the LA food scene and a symbol of the city's diversity. She encourages viewers to explore their local Korean restaurants and markets and discover the rich heritage and flavors that they have to offer.

Overall, Take Out With Lisa Ling season 1 episode 6 offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of Korean cuisine and its significance to the Korean American community. Through interviews with chefs, entrepreneurs, and families, Ling paints a picture of a rich and vibrant culture that has left its mark on Los Angeles and beyond. The episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in food, culture, and the ways in which they intersect.