#ChineseFoodiesofIG: Karin Lei

Karin Lei of Chopstick Stories

This is part of an ongoing series of interviews I’m doing with my favourite Chinese foodies that I follow on Instagram. Come and follow the #ChineseFoodiesofIG hashtag on Instagram and leave a comment showing your support for these talented folk!

Where are you from? Where are you really from?

I was born in Stockholm, Sweden. My mom is from Jinshan and dad is from Tainan, Taiwan.

Rice or noodles?

Don’t make me choose! Noodles, or else my soup will be lonely.

What does home taste like?

One big bowl of scalding hot beef noodle soup.

Share a food memory:

Growing up making dumplings with my family. Chatting and looking forward to the dumpling dinner that followed.

What’s in your fridge?

Lots of bottles and jars. Everything from fermented beancurd, Shacha (沙茶) to Kalles Kaviar (a Swedish fish roe spread).

The secret to Chinese cooking is:

All the fermented good stuff and the respect for ingredients and traditions, also not being afraid to evolve.

A Chinese recipe everyone should learn:

Everyone should learn how to make a good noodle soup. Comforting and delicious.

Who's your Chinese food legend?

I would say my parents, my living legends that introduced me to the Chinese flavours, ingredients, stories and culture.

Dream dinner party guests:

Right now, my whole family gathered around my parents’ dining table enjoying a hot pot, followed by karaoke (it’s been a year...)

What does Chinese food mean to you?

Love! As well as a way for me to learn and connect with my Chinese heritage and culture, which I will hopefully pass on to my kids.