Ep 6. The Art of Food

Kylie Kwong Season 1 Episode 6, titled "The Art of Food," is an exploration of how traditional Chinese art and culture influences Kwong's approach to cooking. In this episode, Kwong visits the National Art Museum of China in Beijing, where she is struck by the beauty and intricacy of the ancient Chinese artwork on display. She muses on how these works of art, with their attention to detail, balance, and harmony, can serve as inspiration for her culinary creations.

Kwong also visits a workshop where artisans are creating handmade pottery using traditional techniques. She reflects on how the artistry and care taken by these potters to create beautiful and functional objects mirrors the approach she takes in her cooking. For Kwong, the vessel in which a dish is served is just as important as the food itself, and she believes that the presentation of a dish can be just as much of a work of art as a painting or sculpture.

Throughout the episode, Kwong visits local markets and restaurants, meeting with chefs and purveyors who share her commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients. She shares recipes for dishes that incorporate both traditional Chinese flavors and a modern, innovative approach to cooking. One such dish is Kwong's take on the classic Chinese dish, "lion's head meatballs," which features pork meatballs cooked in a fragrant broth with bok choy and shiitake mushrooms.

Throughout the episode, Kwong emphasizes the importance of connecting with the cultural heritage of one's food, whether that means exploring the art and history of one's cuisine or sourcing ingredients from local farms and fishermen. She also reflects on her own journey as an Australian-born Chinese chef, and how she has sought to honor both her Chinese heritage and her Australian identity in her cooking.

Overall, "The Art of Food" is a celebration of the rich cultural traditions and artistic sensibilities that inform Kwong's approach to cooking. With its focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavor combinations, the episode serves as a testament to the vitality and adaptability of Chinese cuisine, both in China and around the world.