Food / November 3, 2022

Blasta publishes the first Irish-Chinese cookbook “Wok”

Image: Blasta Books
Food / November 3, 2022

Blasta publishes the first Irish-Chinese cookbook “Wok”

Words: Ellen Kenny

“Wok” combines the flavours from the author’s Asian heritage and his experience cooking from a Donegal kitchen.

Blasta Books have published the final installment in their 2022 series, “Wok” by Kwanghi Chan, the first ever Irish-Asian cookbook. You can buy the book now from your local book shop or online for fifteen euro.

As Chan’s debut cookbook, he wanted to combine the flavours of his upbringing into one brand new style. Born in Hong Kong but raised in Donegal, Chan says that his food isn’t fully authentically Chinese, but neither is he.

“I was sent to live with my uncle in Buncrana when I was around eight years old. My uncle and auntie had a Chinese takeaway and restaurant and everyone had to muck in and help out,” Chan recalls.

Making his way through the catering and hotel industries, Chan eventually set up his own restaurant, food truck and retail brand based around his Irish-Asian style.

“I wanted to do something totally different,” Chan explains, “I wanted to find my own style, and not just with food. I wanted to find myself.”

“Wok” is broken down into nine sections – dumplings, street food, rice, beef, pork, chicken, seafood, vegetarian and sweet. With three recipes in each section, Chan offers a wide platter for anyone who wants to experiment in the kitchen.

“Wok” is the final installment in Blasta Book’s 2022 series, having previously launched “Tacos” and “The United Nation of Cookies”. In 2023, the publishers will be back with four more unique cookbooks: “Soup”, “Tapas”, “Wasted” and “Masarap”.

Together the Blasta series offers a taste of Ireland’s modern and diverse food culture.

Click here to get “Wok” by Kwanghi Chan.

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