Jang Keun-suk Shines in 'The Discovery of the Dining Table' with Culinary Passion

Renowned actor and property mogul Jang Keun-suk has taken center stage in 'The Discovery of the Dining Table.'

On the first episode of MBC's Lunar New Year special, 'The Discovery of the Dining Table,' aired on the 10th, Jang Keun-suk, along with chefs Yoon Nam-no, David Lee, Billy Tsuki, and writer Kwak Jae-sik, embarked on a journey to Yeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, to explore the dedication and wisdom behind traditional Korean meals.

'The Discovery of the Dining Table' is a K-food road documentary that aims to rediscover the hidden flavors, wisdom, and cultural values of everyday meals. Top chefs in Korea will reinterpret 'K-food' and 'Korean culinary culture,' offering unique food content.

Jang Keun-suk, who has previously expressed his interest in cooking, shared his thoughts: “I eat Korean food every day, but I rarely have the opportunity to deeply consider where it comes from and the processes involved in making it. Through this opportunity, I want to rediscover the forgotten value of Korean cuisine.”

During the episode, Jang Keun-suk prepared a 'welcome meal' for the 'dining table family,' showcasing his affection for the project. He set the table with dishes like tteokbokki, buljjolmyeon, and local specialty Taepyeongcho, purchased from Yeongju Market, and shared the origins of Taepyeongcho, demonstrating his storytelling prowess. His discussion on chili peppers and chili powder further highlighted his skills as a storytelling MC.

Jang Keun-suk also met with a traditional sauce expert, asking insightful questions about the gochujang-making process and fermentation period, enhancing the informational aspect of the show. He took on the challenge of making meju for the first time, experiencing the process of mashing boiled soybeans and stepping on meju, and remarked, “It was a process that required a lot of time and dedication,” aiding in the understanding of traditional food culture.

Later, Jang Keun-suk showcased his 'home-cooked meal master' skills by making napa cabbage doenjang soup using rice water in an outdoor kitchen. He naturally led the atmosphere on set and assisted Tsuki with his japchae dish, exuding warm chemistry among the 'dining table family.' Jang Keun-suk's doenjang soup received high praise from the cast, completing a heartwarming dining table atmosphere.

The second episode of MBC's Lunar New Year special 'The Discovery of the Dining Table' will air on the 17th at 8:10 PM.

Reporter: Kim Se-ah, TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr