BBC Exploring China A Culinary Adventure 1of4 (Documentary)

Ken Hom and Ching-He Huang cook their way across China in a visually rich culinary journey against the backdrop of ancient and modern Asia. Beyond a culinary odyssey, this will be an emotional homecoming, a cultural adventure, and an anthropological and historical road trip. Ken and Ching travel over 5,000 miles across this vast sub-continent, taking in both the ancient and the modern. Over four episodes they explore contrasting destinations along China's most significant trade routes. Beginning in the vibrant capital of Beijing, they explore the city that China has presented to the west and the rural villages outside of Beijing. After travelling through China's spicy Sichuan heartland, they explore the influence of minority cultures in Yunnan and the mystical northern city of Kashgar. And finally, in an emotional climax, Ken and Ching return to their ancestral homes to reveal the secrets of a Southern China we rarely see. Produced by Keofilms. Their journey begins in Beijing, the country's imperial capital for 800 years, where quintessential Chinese dishes such as noodles, dumplings and Peking duck are now being showcased with a new culinary confidence. Ken and Ching cook for world-class chefs in the city's most celebrated restaurants before visiting ordinary Beijingers to learn traditional cooking methods. They also travel to the village of Chuandixia, where ancient traditions are being celebrated and preserved.