Foodie Mary Kate Tate just published the ultimate Chinese cookbook, Feeding the Dragon. We caught up with her to get the inside scoop on her book and the journey of creating it.

Why did you start this project?
The idea came about 10 years ago, when my brother, Nate, who is three years older, was studying at Tsinghua University. I was in high school at the time and came to visit. I didn’t know anything about China. I thought the main dish was sushi. We spent about two months traveling around, and there were so many amazing foods I’d never had before, that we thought it would be amazing to write a book on this.

What is your favorite region for food?
Probably Yunnan. It has southeastern flavors, fruit-infused dishes ... I also love the hearty food in the north in Beijing.

Which ingredient surprised you the most?
Sichuan peppercorn. We have a recipe for green tea cookies in the book and you can sprinkle some on top, and now when I order ice cream I sprinkle some on top. It’s great on everything.

Hitting the markets of China

What was it like traveling and working with your brother?
The good thing is that you’re completely honest with a sibling as you wouldn’t be with just a co-worker or a friend. That was good in a creative sense, because you get the truth. But it was also difficult.

What is your most memorable experience?
In 2001 we went down to Xishuangbanna and got lost. We went on a trek, and didn’t take a tent or any provisions. One night we tried to sleep under a tarp. That didn’t work, so we ended up walking all night. We stayed in a couple of villages. People were just so kind, made meals for us. That was truly the spark of the book.

Feeding the Dragon: A Culinary Travelogue Through China with Recipes is available on Amazon.com, US$24.99