Exploring the Stories Behind American Chinese Food with Grace Lin
Today, I’m talking to Grace Lin, author of Chinese Menu: The History, Myths, and Legends Behind Your Favorite Foods.
In her book, Lin explores the fascinating stories behind some of the most common and delectable favorites of Chinese cuisine paired with vivid illustrations.
You’ll hear how she came up with the idea for this unique book, and the important roles the fortune cookie and the pandemic played in its conceptualization.
You’ll learn interesting myths. and legends about some of your favorite Chinese dishes. And you’ll hear how Chinese food in America has become a flavorful bridge of understanding between two cultures.
What you'll learn from Author Grace Lin
- The inspiration behind the book 4:33
- Why Grace Lin relates to the reputation of the fortune cookie 5:30
- The story of the fortune cookie 7:44
- How folk tales helped shape her cultural identity 9:26
- When Grace Lin began to embrace her heritage 10:05
- The real reason she writes about Chinese cuisine 11:11
- How early Chinese immigrants adapted to the American palate 12:15
- One example of a Chinese-American creation 13:55
- Misconceptions about Chinese food 14:58
- How Chinese food creates a bridge with American culture 16:35
- Two origin stories about chopsticks 18:18
- The birth of Chop Suey 21:39
- Why Wonton Soup is the perfect gateway food 24:39
- Dumplings and the Taoist creation myth 26:16
- The story of spring rolls 29:09
- Grace Lin's goals for the book 31:54
- Why Chinese American food is really American food 33:03
- Why
Activity