Is it Sujebi? Choi Hyun Seok's viral culinary tribute to Nam Sung-Hoon

On the JTBC entertainment program 'Chef & My Fridge,' Chef Choi Hyun Seok signaled the start of a high-stakes battle by presenting a unique culinary concept aimed at Chef Nam Sung-Hoon.

"The dish title is Nam Sung-Hoon"... Choi Hyun Seok's unconventional concept

In the battle targeting Nam Sung-Hoon, Choi Hyun Seok left a strong initial impression by naming the dish itself after his opponent. In the video, Choi explained that the dish is a direct expression of Nam, noting that since his opponent seeks attention, he would ensure he receives plenty of it.

To enhance the visual elements, Choi prepared a sauce using gelatin. He revealed his plan to create a jewel-like, sparkling sauce using clam broth, expressing his hope that the finished dish would shine just like Nam. To achieve this, he chose a sculptural method: creating a Sweet & Sour sauce by mixing bonito broth, soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar, then using a large amount of gelatin to set it into a jelly-like form. He emphasized that the dish must become a hot topic, revealing his strategic direction.

"Is it Sujebi?" Doubts and debates over ingredients

As the cooking progressed and the dough prepared by Choi was revealed, questions regarding the dish's identity arose on set. The process of handling the dough closely resembled the making of Sujebi (hand-torn noodle soup). The cast expressed doubt, asking, "Is it Sujebi?" to which Choi reiterated that it was nothing like Sujebi, but rather a simple yet intense expression of Nam. Meanwhile, the cast reacted to the large surface area of the finished dish, noting how much it resembled Sujebi.

Tense dialogue also occurred regarding the choice of ingredients. Choi used red shrimp, a premium ingredient, emphasizing that its umami is more than 10 times better than regular shrimp. Meanwhile, regarding the heavy use of garlic, a humorous exchange ensued on set, including a remark about whether Nam would even be in this position if Choi hadn't eaten garlic three years ago on that day.

A 15-minute struggle to make Nam Sung-Hoon go viral

The battle was conducted under the theme, "Who will be the chef that makes Nam Sung-Hoon go viral?" Choi showed movements clearly conscious of creating buzz, opting for a sculptural cooking method using gelatin to solidify the sauce. He focused intently on the cooking, adjusting the temperature to ensure the jelly set properly.

Throughout the battle, the cast showed various reactions to Choi's methods and ingredient usage. The dough-handling process once again evoked images of Sujebi, creating a mix of tension and humor regarding the final shape of the dish. Choi continued the 15-minute battle while delivering a message not to forget Nam's first win on 'Chef & My Fridge.'