Don enjoys spicy mackerel and tea-water rice with handmade chopsticks on 'I Live Alone'

In a video released on September 11, the MBC variety show 'I Live Alone' showcased Don enjoying a meal. The official video title highlighted both 'Don eating with self-made chopsticks' and 'Gogalbi and tea-water rice that call for happiness.' The footage captured the process of grilling the fish, topping the Gogalbi (spicy grilled mackerel) with gochujang seasoning, pairing it with rice, and using his handmade chopsticks for the meal.

Grilling the mackerel skin-side down

During the meal preparation, the video explained why the fish should be placed skin-side down first. Subtitles noted that this method allows the oil to drain properly and prevents the fish from burning. The footage also showed the preparation of the mackerel skin before it hit the pan. As the fish cooked, viewers saw reactions regarding the delicate texture of the flesh and comments praising the grilling status as being 'perfect.'

Gochujang seasoning and rice

Once the mackerel was grilled, gochujang seasoning was added to the top. Subtitles captured reactions admiring the vibrant color and the delicious appearance of the seasoning. After noting that minced garlic had been missed in the initial seasoning, the garlic was added separately. Some viewers remarked that the dish looked like eel, leading into the scene where Don eats it as Gogalbi. The meal concluded with the addition of rice, with subtitles noting that two servings were used to mix with the dish.

Using self-made chopsticks

The handmade chopsticks were a focal point of the meal. Subtitles featured the question, 'Is that the same chopsticks from earlier?' followed by a response expressing a desire to use them quickly. As the official title emphasizes Don eating with chopsticks he crafted himself, they served as a key element of the video, used while he enjoyed the Gogalbi and tea-water rice.

Viewer reactions

The meal scene drew various reactions regarding the taste and portion sizes. Subtitles displayed exclamations such as 'It looks so delicious' and 'I'm so happy,' alongside comments about his large appetite. The term 'romance' was also used to describe the scene. Rather than simply showing the finished dish, the video structured Don's meal by following the sequence of grilling the fish, adding seasoning, pairing it with rice, and using his handmade chopsticks.