Every so often, the lights of the big city get too bright, the cars too loud and the people too rude. Lucky for me, there are a few groups of people (meetup.com) who are always looking to get away.
Continue readingTea Time
All posts by Jennifer Stevens
Japan: Eat ‘Til You Drop
Any culture celebrating some form of excess has a phrase to go along with it. In America, a country of consumers, it’s “shop ‘til you drop.” In Korea, a country of alcoholics and binge drinkers, it’s “drink ‘til you die.” And in Osaka, Japan, a town full of hard-working foodies, it’s “eat ‘til you fall down.”
Kuidaore, a phrase derived from the proverb, “dress (in kimonos) ‘til you drop in Kyoto, eat ‘til you drop in Osaka,” has become synonymous with the Japanese metropolis. It’s not uncommon for a businessman to spend all his earnings on food, nor to eat at three different restaurants in one night.
Soju Taste Test
Before I headed to Korea, I did quite a bit of research. Admittedly, most of my research had to do with food. And with food comes alcohol.
In my defense, Korea’s drinking culture is fascinating.
Holy Duck That Was Good
Back in the U.S., if someone were to suggest duck for dinner, I would decline; assuming they had an expensive craving for French fare. However, when a friend asked me to join them for BBQ duck in my neighborhood (Jangan-dong) tonight, I didn’t think twice.
Korean food isn’t fancy. It’s not presented on pristine plates. It’s not drizzled with colorful purées or rich sauces. Meat is served as meat, vegetables as vegetables. And the cost reflects the simplicity. In fact, I can’t recall a meal in Seoul ever costing me more than 15,000 won (less than 13 American dollars). Tonight was no exception.
Continue readingMy Latest Obsession: Wang Mandu
Wang Mandu means “king dumpling” in Korean. A more literal translation would be “huge steamed bun filled with pork, clear noodles and green onions.” I can’t get enough. If only someone would create a carb-only diet. I’d be their most loyal follower.
A Look Back: China
Eight months ago, I went on a ten-day trip to Shanghai, Xi’an, and Beijing with my friend Chris. We saw some of the world’s wonders, visited some of the world’s scariest bathrooms, and ate some of the world’s best food. Needless to say, America’s perception of Chinese food is somewhat muddled.
Eating Silkworm Larvae in Insadong
It took eleven months, but I finally tried beondegi, also known as boiled silkworm larvae. It’s a popular Korean street snack, and is even available by the can! Enjoy my first-ever video post 🙂
Korea Runs on Kimchi and Rice
This morning, I stopped by Dunkin’ Donuts for a bagel and cream cheese. “I am sorry, no bagels. No cream cheese,” said the woman behind the counter.
Continue readingPigs in Heaven
Soft rock band Chicago once sang, “You bring meaning to my life, you’re my inspiration…” Sure, they were probably talking about some busty brunette; but hey, everyone’s different. The love of my life just so happens to be a pig.
I had been fantasizing about this particular pig since my co-teacher found out I was going to Jeju Island—the Hawaii of Korea—for my summer break. In true Korean fashion, she had stopped by the tourist office and picked up pamphlets, maps, and books to help me enjoy my stay.
Continue readingSome Things Never Change
I was already two drinks in when I broke the news to my girlfriends.
“I’m moving to Korea!” I blurted out.
Looks of shock and confusion filled my friends’ faces. Then came the questions.
“When are you leaving?”
“Why Korea?”
“How long will you be gone?”
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