A Small Life in a Bustling World

Qiao Mianmian, a head chef from modern times, transmigrates into the body of a fifteen-year-old girl in the Daye Dynasty after a car accident. The original owner, the youngest daughter of the Qiao family, died by jumping into a river after being rejected by a scholarly neighbor, Xu Tongsheng. Qiao Mianmian finds herself in a large, impoverished family of eight living in a cramped three-room house. Her father, Qiao Mancang, sells meat, while her stepmother, Madam Lin, works as a seamstress. Despite their poverty, the entire family dotes on Mianmian, treating her like a treasure. Unlike the spoiled and lazy original owner, Mianmian is determined to improve their financial situation using her culinary expertise.

Upon settling in, Mianmian observes the family’s dire straits. They eat meager meals of sweet potatoes and mushy rice, and the family struggles to afford basic necessities. Her grandfather, Qiao Youfu, catches fish, but Madam Lin’s cooking is notoriously bad. Mianmian decides to take charge of the kitchen. Her first major test comes when she prepares a meal using a carp caught by her grandfather. She braises the fish with ginger, soy sauce, and vinegar, creating a dish so aromatic that it draws the attention of neighbors and delights her family. This marks a turning point, as the family begins to appreciate her changed demeanor and newfound capability.

Encouraged by the positive reception, Mianmian proposes selling her braised pork offal, a cheap ingredient that her father usually struggles to sell. Madam Lin is initially hesitant due to the cost of spices, but Mianmian persuades her. The first day of selling at the market is a resounding success. The rich aroma attracts customers, and the offal sells out quickly. Mianmian demonstrates sharp business acumen by offering samples and setting competitive prices. The profit allows the family to celebrate with a proper meal, boosting morale and hope for the future.

As the business grows, Mianmian expands her product line to include braised pig head meat and trotters. She successfully negotiates a partnership with Chunxi Restaurant, a local establishment, supplying them with eighty bowls of braised offal daily. This contract provides a steady and significant income, allowing the family to save for a larger house. Meanwhile, Mianmian navigates family dynamics, including arranging marriages for her siblings. Her fourth sister, Lin Xiahe, faces bullying at her job and an awkward encounter with a constable, Yuan Qiang, who has a past with another woman. Mianmian intervenes, driving the troublemakers away and supporting her sister.

The story also introduces the Xu family, neighbors who are former scholars now living in reduced circumstances. Xu Tongsheng, the man the original owner admired, is revealed to be studying for exams. His mother, Madam Xu, initially looks down on the Qiao family but later seeks their help when she suffers from heatstroke. Mianmian assists her, leading to a reconciliation and improved relations between the families. Xu Mingxuan, the eldest son, begins to respect Mianmian’s capabilities after tasting her food.

Throughout these events, Mianmian remains focused on her goal of financial stability. She uses her knowledge of business and cooking to elevate her family’s status. The narrative highlights the challenges of daily life in a historical setting, including social hierarchies and economic hardships. Mianmian’s journey is one of adaptation and empowerment, as she transforms her family’s fortune through hard work and smart decisions. The story concludes with the Qiao family looking forward to a brighter future, supported by Mianmian’s culinary talents and business savvy.