Chinese Culture: Cooking

One of the biggest worries I had prior to our recent relocation was in finding a native speaker of Mandarin to continue my daughter's lessons.  I posted an inquiry on the homeschool boards hoping another family could recommend someone.  My query resulted in only one option - can you feel my anxiety?

 饺子(jiaozi)

I gave him a call shortly after we moved and made arrangements to meet.  Both DH and I were very impressed with him and agreed to continue our studies with him.  Phew!    In addition, not only would Sweetie be continuing her lessons (two 1 hour sessions each week) but Buddy would begin as well (two 30 min sessions each week).

Our budding chefs

The other major difference was that the lessons would take place in his home.  One of the greatest advantages of this is that it enables us to take part in regular cultural lessons, specifically cooking.   Over the past few months, we have had three cooking lessons - each very different:   饺子(jiaozi),  热干面 (règānmiàn),  and  毛豆 (máodòu).  Best part of all - I have been able to take part as well!  I ♥ this!  Previously I wasn't always aware of what material was covered and I had to make a considerable effort to get feedback / homework.  

热干面 (règānmiàn)

毛豆 (máodòu)

Each dish has been wonderful and the munchkins and I have been able to recreate each a few days later to share with Dad.  It has been a delight ... and a bit of surprise.  Recently, we were reflecting upon 2011 and discussing our goals for 2012.  Buddy stated that his favorite food was Chinese Food (I hadn't realized this before) and that he wants to get better at cooking.  

谢谢老师