An empty kimchi fridge brings an extended family of Korean descent together to ferment delicious fun.
Mina has a dire need for kimchi stew, but her mother is so distracted playing video games that she can only suggest checking the kimchi refrigerator in the garage. Mina’s crucial discovery—“We’re all out!”—rallies Omma to text the aunties, tie her hair back, cinch that apron, pull on rubber gloves, and announce, “It’s kimjang time.” Grandparents, aunts, cousins, and neighbors quickly assemble with all the necessary ingredients to boil, split, soak, salt, peel, and slice their way to creating everyone’s “own favorite kimchi.” In between, Mina’s dad shows off his K-pop dance moves and brother Jungsu never puts down his phone (except to do the dishes) while the rest of the chefs chatter on. Mina initially struggles with wrapping her kimchi leaves just right, but Omma assures her that not-so-perfect efforts will still be delicious. Their work yields plenty of kimchi to restock many fridges. The next kimjang might seem far off, but “some things are worth waiting for.” Korean American Cho enhances her exuberantly entertaining text with thousands-of-years-old kimjang history; her author’s note mentions the global growth of kimchi consumption. Korean American Kang’s colorfully energetic spreads are an irresistible invitation to join the delectable party.
A multilayered feast for the senses—singing, boogie-ing, salivating to Korea’s national culinary treasure.
Description
Get ready to eat . . . It's kimchi time!
On a cold day, Mina wants to warm up with a bowl of her Omma's kimchi stew. But when she slides to the kimchi fridge . . . It's empty! Text the aunties and neighbors, it's kimjang time! Soon Mina's home is filled with the warmth of laughter, family, and friendship as everyone gathers to make their own batch of mouth-watering kimchi. But when Mina realizes that her kimchi needs time to ferment and won't be ready to eat for months, what can she do to satisfy her craving?
From the author of Rice From Heaven and The Ocean Calls, comes a joyful, laugh-out-loud kimchi adventure filled with Korean food, k-pop dances, a great recipe, and a loving reminder that good things come to those who wait.
