NOVEL WEB
Chapter 18 - Princess Changle is deeply ashamed!
Chapter 18: Princess Changle is deeply ashamed!
Li Lizhi knew Empress Zhangsun would inquire, and she had prepared for it. With a smile, she said, “I discovered a fantastic chef in Changan City, and the chef’s skilled hands craft these dishes. The queen mother, this divine chef, is truly impressive!”
Li Lizhi’s admiration was evident as she spoke about the discovery. Empress Zhangsun, aware that these words might be exaggerated, smiled knowingly.
“Mother, give it a try!” Li Lizhi fed Empress Zhangsun, who seemed eager to taste the dish. The ribs, infused with the flavors of corn and carrots, had a hint of sweetness.
Empress Zhangsun, savoring the dish, expressed her delight. The flavors were a rare treat for her palate. Li Lizhi, seeing the queen’s enjoyment, couldn’t hide her envy.
Intrigued, Empress Zhangsun asked about the meat. Li Lizhi revealed, “It’s pork!”
Surprisingly, Empress Zhangsun hadn’t guessed it. The queen took a bite, savoring the unfamiliar taste. Puzzled, she asked, “Not lamb or beef. What meat is this?” Li Lizhi revealed, “It’s pork!”
Empress Zhangsun, undisturbed by the revelation, appreciated the dish. Li Lizhi, relieved, apologized for serving pork, fearing the queen’s displeasure. However, Empress Zhangsun dismissed any concerns, expressing gratitude for the delicious meal.
Li Lizhi, grateful for the understanding, asked if Empress Zhangsun disliked pork. The queen, aware of the scarcity of food for many, appreciated the opportunity to have a satisfying meal, regardless of the meat’s origin.
Li Lizhi, humbled by the lesson, suggested introducing the divine chef’s methods to improve pork quality in the realm. Empress Zhangsun encouraged her daughter to inquire about the chef’s techniques and promised generous rewards if successful.
Acknowledging the potential benefits for the people, Li Lizhi pledged to ask the chef during their next encounter. Empress Zhangsun, recognizing her daughter’s encounter with a culinary expert, saw an opportunity for improvement in the imperial kitchen.
Empress Zhangsun, having eaten sparingly, left a significant portion untouched.
Li Lizhi, noticing the remaining food, suggested, “Mother, the night is getting colder. Put on warm clothes later. It will be more comfortable.”