Iron Wok Jan Vol. 3 — Manga Raw / Buy Official

In this volume, Jan enters a fierce competition against a master of Peking Duck. Rather than treating the duck with respect, Jan treats it as a mere lump of fat, subjecting it to extreme, unconventional temperatures to extract an overwhelming, almost cruel level of umami. His traditionalist opponent is initially disgusted by Jan's process, only to be reduced to licking his plate clean once the flavor hits his tongue. The climax involves a dessert battle, where Jan transforms the humble almond tofu into a dish as addictive as a narcotic. By intentionally unbalancing the Five Elements, he forces the judges into a state of blissful dependency, rendering them mentally defeated. Jan’s focus on the 'Wood' element, using a volatile blend of herbs to paralyze the palate, proves his strategic genius. As his opponent breaks down in tears, Jan coldly declares that cooking is solely about victory, leaving the defeated chef in his wake. Jan solidifies his role as a culinary butcher, weaponizing his talent to crush anyone standing in his way.