Dumplings are delicious delights! This recipe satisfies cravings and pays homage to Taiwanese tofu dumplings, as seen in Ang Lee’s Eat Drink Man Woman (1994).

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The Story: Eat Drink Man Woman (1994)

Eat Drink Man Woman is a comedy-drama centered around food, love, and family. The title is a direct quote from Book of Rites, a Confucian text which correlates the fulfillment of innate human desires with happiness. Instead of listening to this adage, each character fails to meet one or more of these essential needs, described as “the things which men [and women] greatly desire…comprehended in meat and drink and sexual pleasure,” (Confucius).

Master Chef Chu (Sihung Lung), a semi-retired master cook, lives with his three single daughters. The eldest, Jia-Jen (Kuei-Mei Yang), is a devout Christian and strict chemistry teacher. Even while her younger sisters remain unmarried, everyone stereotypes Jia-Jen as the lonesome spinster. Jia-Chien (Chien-Lien Wu), a sophisticated airline executive, is driven to succeed and accumulate material wealth. Between shifts at a popular American fast-food chain, Jia-Ning (Yu-Wen Wang), the baby of the family, lives in the moment and savors life’s simple pleasures. These independent women, along with their devoted father, challenge preconceived notions of classical Chinese culture.

Every Sunday, the family gathers around the dinner table for Mr. Chu’s elaborate Taiwanese feast. The film’s hypnotic opening illustrates every meticulous step in his weekly routine. If his spread of professional tools is any indication, Mr. Chu is dedicated to his craft. Never satisfied with mediocrity, he chops, carves, steams, simmers, boils, roasts, and seasons until every plate is perfect.

The only problem? Unlike his razor-sharp knives, his sense of taste and smell has grown increasingly dull. During one special Sunday, his middle daughter disturbs the balance of peace. Jia-Chien no longer wishes to live in the family home. Instead, she has set her sights on a luxurious, high-rise apartment building. Eventually, this decision inspires courageous actions in each family member.

As the film progresses, attachments form and new love interests enter the picture. When Jia-Jen begins receiving love notes from a secret admirer at school, her heart awakens with desire. She can only assume it is the new gym teacher. Additionally, Jia-Ning befriends a young photographer who catches her eye. While bonding over meals, they discuss unrequited love, trials, and tribulations. Even Jia-Chien, the so-called workaholic, makes time for beguiling suitors. In the throws of passionate embraces, she cannot escape her true calling to the culinary arts.

Throughout the film, family dynamics consistently shift. Each daughter takes risks, embraces strengths, and assumes new roles.

If this story sounds familiar, your instincts are right! Eat Drink Man Woman inspired Tortilla Soup (2001).

My Take

I thoroughly enjoyed watching every minute of Eat Drink Man Woman. The history, language (Mandarin Chinese), people, ingredients, and cultural values expanded my palette. Taipai becomes a character in its own right. Palpable energy infuses the streets, markets, and restaurants. Food is the ultimate fuel. Every single dish is prepared with the utmost care. Specifically, Mr. Chu respects culinary traditions by preserving authentic Taiwanese flavors. Preservation is key.

On the other hand, it is inspiring to watch his daughters reject convention and follow their hearts. Each woman must confront her fears. Mistakes are made. Emotions, particularly love and lust, fluctuate. Hope is restored. Most importantly, the heroines actively change their fates through the process of self-discovery!

The History

Most experts agree that Zhang Zhongjing, a medical practitioner who lived around 206 BC-220 AD (Eastern Han Dynasty), invented dumplings (One). According to legend, a difficult winter inspired the healer to wrap a combination of mutton, herbs, and chilis in dough (One). Steam helped cook and bind the ingredients together. Not only did these pillowy treats satiate local citizens, but they also promoted blood circulation and prevented frostbite (One). Fortunately, Zhang Zhongjing and his culinary prowess saved the day!

During the 17th century, “dumpling” officially entered the English language. Dumplings eventually went on to serve additional purposes. Besides satisfying cravings, they were also created to extend the shelf life of meat and surplus grains.

The Recipe: Taiwanese Tofu Dumplings

I always crave dumplings, of any shape and size. If you have been to Din Tai Fung, a Taiwanese restaurant franchise specializing in Chinese Huaiyang cuisine, you understand the addiction. While watching Eat Drink Man Woman, my mouth watered at the mention of “tofu dumplings.” I was immediately inspired to make them!