October 1, 2023
In his debut cookbook, Kung capitalizes on his TikTok fame to bring his cooking philosophy to the page. Kung refers to himself and his kitchen as "third-culture," which defines how he straddles both his parents' Chinese heritage and his Canadian American influences and how all this defines his food. On his journey, he explores the Asian diaspora in the U.S. with classics like orange chicken while also inventing a fusion that blurs the rules of cuisines and incorporates a variety of flavors from a range of cultures. The author's personality shines strongly throughout in recipe introductions, helpful tips, and personal stories. When Kung asks if you want to get serious, he means it and provides leveled up instruction for even seasoned home chefs. The extensive pantry introduction, equipment recommendations, and condiment and spice recipes will set home cooks up for success. Recipes come with a range of difficulty levels and plenty of vegetarian options, making this a versatile choice. With his original recipes and unique voice, Kung has carved out a niche in a crowded market of cookbooks.
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October 1, 2023
In his first cookbook, TikTok-famous, self-taught cook Kung brings together a mixture of food flavors from his upbringing in Hong Kong and Toronto, plus his current residence, Detroit, and beyond. He refers to his food style as "third-culture," aiming to offer a thoughtful and inventive take on cooking infused by his lived experience of being immersed in multiple cultures. After an introduction and multipage pantry list are recipes for the stocks, oils, and sauces that will come up in many of the dishes that follow. An enticing chapter called "Slow, Hot, and Wet" features soups and stews. The most extensive chapter, "Noodles + Dumplings," begins with a helpful section explaining their different cooking methods. Another chapter of note is "Kung Fu Means 'With Effort.'" These recipes require time and patience, like Thanksgiving turkey congee, and an interesting take on Hong Kong chicken and waffles using Shaoxing wine, fish sauce, and a Szechuan-spiced maple syrup. VERDICT Vivid photos, a clear layout, and a complete index make this a welcome package and good addition for libraries.--P.J. Gardiner
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