TV series spotlights Taiwan’s culinary culture
2014-08-18
“Taiwan Taste,” a TV documentary series broadcast by Public Television, is taking audiences on a journey of gourmet discovery while proudly flying the nation’s culinary flag.
Now in its second season, the show is an undertaking 10 years in the making by director Chen Jian-e in collaboration with his son. The pair uses high-definition camcorders to showcase Taiwan’s iconic cuisine, as well as the cultural heritage and historical development that shaped these creations.
Unlike most TV programs employing voiceovers and alluring imagery to emphasize the taste and texture of food, Chen’s 26-episode series focuses on the relationships between locals and the signature offerings of Taiwan’s townships and ethnic groups.
These include bamboo shoots from Yunlin County, daylilies of Taitung County and rice vermicelli from Hsinchu County. Also featured are Traditional Taiwan dishes, as well as Hakka food such as dried persimmons and flat rice noodles.
The show highlights cooking skills and the environment that gives rise to the produce. It also depicts the subjects going about their work and sharing their personal stories. “My programs have a very human side and capture the warm hospitality of the people of Taiwan,” Chen said.
This approach made the project a challenging one from the get-go, Chen said, adding that he has spent his career filming more active subjects such as animals and sports.
But after a decade behind the camera, the director views food and personal stories as even more persuasive tools for communicating with the audience. “There are no borders when it comes to food, as almost everyone is interested in this subject,” he said.
“Taiwan’s culinary culture is actually the best way to promote the country abroad,” Chen said. “I am turning the spotlight on the ordinary people who create delicious delicacies and preserve Taiwan’s unique cultural heritage for generations to come.”
Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=220675&CtNode=413)
