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Food connects us to our heritage from "summary" of Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner

Food is more than just sustenance; it is a link to our past, a connection to our heritage. The flavors and aromas that waft from a dish can transport us back in time, evoking memories of our childhood or ancestors we never knew. In my case, the taste of kimchi jigae brings me back to my mother's kitchen, where she would lovingly prepare this spicy stew for our family. Each spoonful is a reminder of who I am and where I come from. Growing up in a mixed-race household, I often struggled to find my place in the world. But when I sat down to a meal of Korean comfort food, I felt a sense of belonging that I couldn't find anywhere else. The familiar taste of gochugaru or sesame oil wrapped me in a warm embrace, grounding me in my identity as a Korean-American. Through food, I was able to forge a connection to my heritage that I had long yearned for. As I grew older, the importance of food in preserving our cultural legacy became even more apparent to me. In the Korean community, recipes are passed down from generation to generation, each dish telling a story of resilience and survival. By learning how to cook these traditional meals, we not only honor our ancestors but also keep their memory alive. Every time I recreate my mother's bulgogi or japchae, I am participating in a centuries-old tradition that transcends time and space. Food has a way of transcending language and borders, uniting people from different backgrounds in a shared experience. In the aisles of H Mart, a Korean grocery store that feels like a home away from home, I have witnessed this firsthand. Customers of all ages and ethnicities come together to celebrate Korean cuisine, forming a diverse tapestry of individuals bound by their love for kimchi and bibimbap. In this melting pot of cultures, food serves as a universal language that bridges the gap between us. Through the act of cooking and sharing a meal, we not only nourish our bodies but also nourish our souls. Food is a conduit for storytelling, a way to pass down traditions and create new memories. In a world that is constantly changing, food remains a constant, a source of comfort and connection to our roots. As I continue to explore my identity through the dishes of my ancestors, I am reminded that no matter where life takes me, my heritage will always be with me, preserved in the flavors and arom
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    Crying in H Mart

    Michelle Zauner

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