Chef Eric Ripert's Journey to Mindful Cooking in Seoul
Chef Eric Ripert, celebrated for his French culinary expertise, has recently unveiled his eighth cookbook, "Mindful Cooking," which unexpectedly transports readers to the vibrant city of Seoul. This latest endeavor reflects Ripert's deep immersion into the spiritual and culinary traditions of South Korea, particularly the philosophy of temple food. His journey began with an encounter with Buddhism in the late 1980s, evolving into frequent visits to South Korea since 2014. These trips allowed him to learn directly from temple chefs, understanding not just the preparation of mindful meals but also the broader concept of nourishing oneself and others with intention.
Celebrated Chef Eric Ripert Unveils Culinary and Spiritual Odyssey in Seoul
In a fascinating convergence of cultures, Eric Ripert, the esteemed New York-based chef behind Manhattan's Michelin-starred Le Bernardin, has embarked on a profound culinary and spiritual exploration that culminates in his new cookbook, "Mindful Cooking." Published by Random House, this book delves into the serene world of Korean temple food, a journey that began for Ripert with a chance encounter with a book on Tibet in the late 1980s. His fascination blossomed into regular visits to South Korea, starting in 2014, where he immersed himself in the practices of Buddhist monasteries. There, he had the rare privilege of learning from temple chefs, who taught him not only the art of preparing temple cuisine but also the philosophy of mindfulness, intention, and love that underpins their approach to food.
A pivotal moment in Ripert's journey occurred two years ago when Gyeho Sunim, the venerable chief abbess of Jingwansa Temple in Seoul, prepared a meal for him. At its conclusion, the abbess, after more than five decades of dedicated practice, symbolically passed her apron to Ripert, entrusting him with the responsibility of perpetuating her culinary legacy. This gesture underscored Ripert's belief that mindful cooking is intrinsically linked to mindful living—being present, grateful, and deeply connected to both the food prepared and the people with whom it is shared.
Beyond the temple kitchen, Ripert's Seoul adventures extend to its bustling food scene and tranquil natural escapes. He highly recommends Hwahaedang for its exquisite raw marinated crab, a dish served with pot rice that often commands a queue but is well worth the wait. For those seeking traditional Korean fermented rice wine, makgeolli, Mr. Ahn's Craft Makgeolli offers a chic bistro setting and an impressive selection, alongside memorable dishes like giant stuffed calamari. For a fine dining experience that blends Korean tradition with modern culinary artistry, Ripert singles out Mingles, helmed by Chef Mingoo Kang.
When in Seoul, Ripert makes the Grand Hyatt his base, often taking a restorative walk to Namsan Park, the city's largest park, located directly across from the hotel. A 30-minute hike to the summit of Namsan Mountain rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. He particularly cherishes a trail within the park adorned with Buddhist statues and ancient stone carvings from the Silla Kingdom, finding solace and a reminder to appreciate his surroundings amidst nature, art, and history.
Seoul's contrasting energy also captivates Ripert. While the city pulses with vibrancy, he treasures its quiet corners, especially its traditional teahouses. Sansuhwa, where one can experience a tea ceremony led by a tea master, left a lasting impression with its simple, peaceful ambiance and the profound appreciation it fostered for the art of tea. Ripert also recounted a deeply moving and educational day trip to the DMZ, the demilitarized zone between North and South Korea, an experience that offered a powerful sense of history and an understanding of the forces that have shaped the nation.
For unparalleled city vistas, Ripert suggests taking in the sunrise from the Grand Hyatt, looking south towards the Han River, where the morning light reflects off high-rises, symbolizing Seoul's gradual awakening. For people-watching and experiencing the city's dynamic contemporary culture, Seongsu, a trendy neighborhood brimming with stylish cafes, bakeries, and dessert shops, is his top recommendation. Ultimately, Ripert encourages everyone to explore Jingwansa Temple or other monasteries across Korea to delve deeper into temple food and integrate mindfulness into their daily lives, observing the meticulous care with which nuns and monks nourish their communities.
Chef Eric Ripert's latest culinary endeavor serves as a poignant reminder that food transcends mere sustenance; it can be a conduit for spiritual awakening and a pathway to a more mindful existence. His journey to Seoul and his exploration of temple food illustrate the universal language of nourishment and the profound wisdom that can be found in traditions far removed from our own. It challenges us to consider how we approach cooking and eating, not just as daily tasks but as opportunities for connection, gratitude, and conscious living. This narrative inspires us to seek out the quiet, contemplative aspects of life, even within bustling urban landscapes, and to appreciate the intricate tapestry of cultures that enrich our world.
