I’ve played many very cool characters in my acting career. When I sign my name for autographs, I often add one of them to it. But when I sign just my name, Ming-Na Wen, in my cookbook, Have You Eaten Yet?, I smile with pride. The role of being just me, a restaurant daughter, is pretty cool too! It surprises me that it took writing a cookbook to learn to truly embrace who I am. I thought I was just breaking down ingredients to write recipes for dishes I grew up with to share with my fans. Instead, I was revisiting my complicated childhood and all the struggles I experienced as an Asian American growing up in a very white neighborhood in Pittsburgh. But I also am reliving my acting career and my best years as a wife and mom. Working on this cookbook the past 3 years, I realized one important impact these recipes have had on me. All my insecurities and sense of not belonging were often vanquished with the delicious meals my parents made or I’ve cooked for my family and friends. The time spent at the dining table with my loved ones has given me incredible joy, a community, a sense of belonging. We’ve shared laughter and stories, and created great memories. Many of you--my fans who are my extended family--have been with me for decades. I hope when you try these beloved recipes in my cookbook, you will find that same happiness and create wonderful memories of your own as well. My journey through food made me who I am today and reinforces both my pride for my Chinese heritage, as well as my American upbringing. (And these meals could also be one of the reasons for keeping me young looking…I’m just saying. Fans have asked me where I keep my Fountain of Youth. The secret may just lie within these recipes… 😉) Use the link in my bio to purchase my signed cookbook. Hurry while supplies last!!! #mulan #agentmay #thoughts
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