Each day, TWOC brings you nuanced and cutting-edge coverage of China via our magazine, website, and social media platforms. What more could anyone ask for? How about…TWOC TV?

In cooperation with China Central Television, TWOC is launching The World of Chinese web series, in which experts and opion leaders discuss topical issues from language, literature, art, cuisine, art, calligraphy, music, sport—almost every aspect of Chinese culture.

Our first episode features everyone’s favorite topic: food. As the Chinese saying goes, food is the god of the people but the ancient literati were not typically thought as being good at cooking (Mencius even said, “君子远庖厨”—a nobleman stays clear of the kitchen). One exception was Yuan Mei, a famed Qing dynasty man of letters. In the 18th century, Yuan authored Menus from the Garden of Contentment, a detailed history of food culture over several millennia, based on 40 years’ experience eating and living the good gastronomic life. Find out how:

Menus from the Garden of Contentment-Part 1

Menus from the Garden of Contentment-Part 2