"It is the stuff of ancient legend, and even of poetry. Songs are sung of it, odes penned, memories and meals made complete by it." Read more about the kimchi culture here.

This is a popular appetizer in Primorskii Krai (Russia's Maritime Territory), reflecting the Korean influence on the cuisine of that region. Korean vendors in the markets of Vladivostok and Ussuriisk sell this spicy salad, ready made, in clear plastic tubes and Russians who live in proximity to Koreans have incorporated this recipe into their own culinary repertoire.

You can find other recipes and read about the Russian Far East in the article Siberian Hot Stuff By Sharon Hudgins

Whether you call it Chap Chee, Chap Chae, or Jap Chae (a combination of Japan and China),

this is a very popular dish that combines a variety of textures, colors, flavors, simple seasonings along with one of their staples, noodles. Koreans love beef and serve it more often that pork and chicken, and they never eat lamb or goat. Garlic, ginger, and sesame are common to most Korean beef dishes and this one is no exception. Traditionally, Chap Chee is spiced up with a bowl of kimchi. Available in Asian markets, it’s a fiery hot condiment containing fermented vegetables such as cabbage and turnips. An acquired taste! The meat will be easier to thinly slice if put in the freezer for about 30 minutes and have all the ingredients assembled before stir-frying.

This classic Sichuan stir-fry dish can be made with shrimp, pork, beef, or even tofu as well as chicken.  It’s a simple dish with just a few ingredients combined with crunchy peanuts for texture. The complex flavors come from the marinating and seasoning sauces.

This recipe was collected by travel editor Richard Sterling on his trip to Burma. It was created by Renatto Buhlman, executive chef of the Strand Hotel. Renatto says to use the best quality, unscented tea available. At the Strand they give you a fork, but everywhere else you eat this with your fingers. Serving suggestion: La Phet makes an excellent appetizer with chips and a lager beer or a dry sparkling wine. In Hawaii, you might try a Maui Blanc dry pineapple wine. At any rate, don't take it with iced tea! From the article Exotic & Spicy Salads.

This recipe and others can be found in the 12-part illustrated series "A World of Curries". You can read all about this unique Indian flavor here.