The Korean Cookbook Review

The Korean Cookbook

Welcome to our exploration of The Korean Cookbook, a comprehensive guide to Korean cuisine by the acclaimed two-Michelin-starred chef Junghyun Park and renowned Korean food expert Jungyoon Choi. In this week's review, we delve into the pages of this groundbreaking cookbook, which offers a deep dive into the vibrant and diverse world of Korean cooking.

Korea's cultural influence has grown significantly in recent years, with its cuisine becoming increasingly popular worldwide. The Korean Cookbook celebrates this rich culinary heritage, documenting the rise of Korean food globally and providing an extensive collection of traditional, authentic Korean recipes.

‍

‍

The Essence of Korean Cuisine

Junghyun Park and Jungyoon Choi have created a culinary masterpiece beyond typical Korean barbecue. With over 350 authentic recipes, this book takes readers on a journey from Seoul's urban high rises to Jeju Island's volcanic beaches. It features a variety of dishes, including Napa Cabbage Kimchi, Acorn Jelly Gukbap, Bean Sprout Namul, Pork Rib Gui, and Traditional Korean Donuts.

The book is beautifully illustrated with 110 commissioned photographs by Jinju Kang, a South Korea-based artist specializing in Hansik and Korean Art Cultures. These images, along with extensive introductory material, stories about recipes and ingredients, and a detailed glossary, make The Korean Cookbook a visually stunning and informative read.

‍

‍

A Comprehensive Guide to Korean Cooking

The Korean Cookbook is organized into three main sections: Fermentation, Bap (cooked rice), and Banchan (side dishes). It covers a wide range of Korean dishes, from pantry staples and fermented foods to soups, stews, dumplings, and desserts. 

The book also features essays on Korean cuisine's history, regional foods, and the Korean pantry, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the culture behind the recipes.

A unique aspect of this cookbook is its focus on the "Master Artisans" of Korean cuisine. This section includes specially commissioned photography and essays from chefs who have dedicated their lives to Hansik. It offers an intimate look at the masters behind the art of Korean cooking.

‍

‍

Final Thoughts

The Korean Cookbook is more than just a collection of recipes; it is a comprehensive guide to the art of Hansik. It thoughtfully conveys the multifaceted essence of Korean cuisine through engaging stories and inspiring imagery. Designed by Associate Studio, the book beautifully combines traditional Korean paper-making with modern typography, making it a valuable addition to any culinary library.