Rice Table | Bap Sang: A Modern Celebration of Korean Home Cooking
“Rice Table | Bap Sang” is an evocative and heartfelt cookbook by Su Scott that brings to life the art of modern Korean home cooking. More than just a collection of recipes, it’s a deeply personal narrative of identity, motherhood, and heritage, interwoven with the flavours and textures of Korean cuisine. With 80 recipes, this book serves as a guide to crafting comforting, flavourful dishes while exploring what it means to preserve cultural roots in a new homeland.
Su Scott, a Korean woman living in the UK, found herself in a profound identity crisis upon becoming a mother. The journey to rediscover her sense of self began in her kitchen, where the dishes of her childhood became a bridge to her heritage and a way to pass on her story to her daughter. Through cooking, she found solace and connection, creating a tangible link between past and present.
The cookbook offers a window into Su’s Korean larder, where essential ingredients such as ferments, pickles, and sauces take centre stage. These staples elevate her recipes, making them accessible yet unmistakably Korean. From crispy Korean Fried Chicken and savoury Kimchi Fried Rice to the warming depths of Spicy Seafood Noodle Soup, the dishes are vibrant and packed with flavour. Su’s recipes are modern yet rooted in tradition, reflecting her life as an immigrant navigating a dual identity.
Beyond its culinary offerings, “Rice Table | Bap Sang” is a poignant reflection on motherhood and the immigrant experience. Su’s intimate storytelling reveals the struggles and triumphs of building a life far from home while staying true to her cultural identity. Her anecdotes delve into what it means to be a woman, balancing the demands of family, personal growth, and cultural preservation.
At its heart, this book is a love letter from a mother to her daughter, written in the language of food. It highlights the profound role food plays in shaping identity and belonging, offering a legacy of heritage and tradition for the next generation. Su beautifully illustrates how the meals we share tell a story, one that is deeply personal yet universally resonant.
“Rice Table | Bap Sang” is a treasure for anyone who loves food that tells a story. Whether you’re new to Korean cuisine or looking to expand your repertoire, Su Scott’s recipes and reflections are bound to inspire. It’s a celebration of wonderful food that nourishes both the body and the soul, making it a must-have for food lovers everywhere.
