Led by Chinese Executive Group Chef Lee Man Sing, previously of notable establishments including Mandarin Oriental, The Hong Kong Jockey Club and Harbour Grand Kowloon, he signs his expertise especially in Western-inspired Chinese plates and exquisite plating - two things which he points out are the anchoring ends of contemporary Chinese cuisine. It’s one thing that Mott 32 - the sleek, elegant eatery named after the first Chinese convenience store in New York opened on 32 Mott Street and tucked within Central’s finance corners - has mastered. Anything else that tips beyond, drops into the bracket of Contemporary Chinese - the twist on heritage riff on traditional favourites. Each region is partial to well-practiced ways of their own each a different interpretation of the dish in their choice. And, most importantly, the very elusive wok-flavour smokiness, which you’ll often hear be referred to as ‘ wok-hay‘ one that emerges only with the perfect strike of balance between fresh ingredients and high-heat temperature. The expert customisation of spices and condiments and how it slots a dish into any of the five key indicators of Chinese food: salty, spicy, sour, sweet and bitter. There are many markers of authentic Chinese cuisine the recipes, the preparation methods, the choice of ingredients. Served with a sweet chef’s kiss, naturally.
A dear friend (or furry pup!) as the designated taste-tester.
‘The Home Chef’ is a series that uncovers closely guarded recipes of the city’s most notable chefs, so that you, amateur home-cook, can, too, recreate restaurant-grade meals in the comforts of your own kitchen.