Chef Kim Si-hyun, who made his first appearance on 'I Live Alone' in February, has embarked on a journey to Tongyeong to study wild greens.
The MBC variety show 'I Live Alone' aired on the 3rd, featuring 'Fiery Charisma' Minho supporting his father, a K-League soccer coach, and 'Baby Beast' Chef Kim Si-hyun learning 'wild greens cooking' from his culinary mentor in Tongyeong. The episode recorded a nationwide viewership rating of 4.5%.
'Baby Beast' Chef Kim Si-hyun traveled to Tongyeong for 'wild greens study.' Starting early in the morning, he hunted for various greens and seafood at the traditional market and enjoyed a hearty breakfast of his favorite dish, 'blowfish soup.' He shared a tip, saying, “A few drops of vinegar enhance the umami flavor.”
With his hands full of groceries, Chef Kim visited the research lab of his culinary mentor, Lee Sang-hee, a cooking researcher in Tongyeong. He shared the story of how he became a disciple after being captivated by the food at his mentor's restaurant during a chance visit. The Rainbow Club members admired his passion and courage, saying, “That's impressive.”
Chef Kim followed his mentor to gather wild greens. He expressed excitement, saying, “It's my first time picking greens from a field where they grow randomly.” He filled his basket with seasonal wild greens, including 'Gwangdae greens,' 'Butterbur,' 'Siberian ginseng greens,' 'Spinach,' and 'Crown daisy,' which he had been searching for in Seoul. He then learned to cook Tongyeong's local dishes, 'Bangpung Tangpyeongchae' and 'Wild Greens Soup,' using the greens he picked. Chef Kim eagerly filled his culinary notebook with new seafood preparation and wild greens cooking techniques.
When Gian84 mentioned Bae In-hyuk, who showcased his 'wild greens expertise' last week, Chef Kim humorously declared, “I won't lose in wild greens!” showcasing his unwavering 'love for wild greens.' His passion and sincerity in learning and sharing various wild greens recipes were evident.
Next week, the show will feature homebody Kim Shin-young's 14-year single life and Lim Woo-il's daily life, who is deeply immersed in cooking.
Meanwhile, 'I Live Alone' has been experiencing declining ratings. Episode 637 recorded 4.6%, and episode 640 featuring Bae In-hyuk recorded 4.4%, the lowest since episode 422 in November 2021, which had a 4.2% rating.
Tae Yuna, Ten Asia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr