Eric Kim shares his cookbook "Korean American," with Salon's Ashlie Stevens. The book contains Korean pantry staples, meals for one and more, and stories behind the seasonings that make Korean dishes authentic. The New York Times columnist says he learned a lot about his family while writing the book. "I really hope that it encourages people to call their moms and to stand by their side at the stove to see how they cook their special this or that," Kim said. "I really do believe that writing down your family recipes is a way to also hear stories." Photography by Jenny Huang / Clarkson Potter