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She was born to a South Korean mother and an African American G.I.
Vongerichten’s mother had no choice but to give her up for adoption.
“Learningcookingwas a vessel for learning about my culture,” Vongerichten says.
“Now I always cook Korean food at home.”
“Korea is such an untapped country,” Vongerichten says.
(Photo credit: Andre Baranowski)
What’s in your fridge?
Kimchi, water, grapefruit juice, yogurt.
What’s your go-to breakfast?
Usually a couple of eggs, scrambled or fried with parmesan cheese, and that’s pretty much it.
On the weekends my husband does a big breakfast with pancakes and bacon and salmon and bagels and fruit.
Wow, I can’t lie – I’m a little jealous!
The funny thing is, our daughter is a really picky eater.
There’s a lot of kid-friendly food in Korean food.
What about lunch and dinner?
It’s just cool and refreshing and great for summer when it’s too hot to eat much.
If you have to eat fast food, what do you get?
A Wendy’s spicy chicken sandwich.
What’s your favorite indulgence, whether it’s food or something else?
I don’t do it often, because it takes two hours, and I hate just sitting around.
Do you have a favorite gadget?
It’s so great, and you don’t have to wash out this big blender.
What cause or charity are you most passionate about?
Supporting one child in terms of basic needs costs maybe $30 a month.
What do you wish people knew about Korean food or culture?
There’s a lot people don’t know.
If you’re in North Korea, get out!
Get to an embassy right away!
But seriously, Korean culture is so distinct.
“The Kimchi Chronicles” is airing now on PBS – check your local listings.
– Anna Maltby
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