South Korean film Parasite was a hot favorite to win big at the 2020 Oscars. And win big it did, as the black comedy thriller became the first Asian film to bag the Best Picture award. The film also bagged the Oscars for Best Original Screenplay, Best International Feature Film, and Best Director for Bong Joon Ho.
Arguably one of the most memorable moments in the movie (at least for foodies) has to be when they made that scene-stealing jjapaguri. ICYDK, Parasite's English subtitle translator Darcy Paquet decided to call the dish ram-don in the movie—a portmanteau of "ramen" and "udon"—as jjapaguri was difficult to translate.
The dish is made of two types of instant noodles: Chapagetti and Neoguri. And as you may know by now, steak was added to the dish in the movie. "This is something kids like, regardless of the rich or the poor. But the rich wife couldn't stand [having her kids eat] this cheap noodle so she adds sirloin topping," the director told the Los Angeles Times.
You could always make your own at home if you find the right ingredients, but if you're willing to go on a road trip for this Parasite-inspired dish, then head on to Seoul Station Korean Barbeque. They now have Jjapaguri With Wagyu Cubes, their own version of the Korean staple. A bowl costs P299 and is good for two people. The store has branches in Malolos, Bulacan and in Valenzuela City. Now who's up for a drive up north for spicy, salty noodles, Parasite-style?