The Food That Built America Recap for The Asian Invasion-This week’s episode of The Food That Built America is titled The Asian Invasion and talks about the revolution of ramen noodles and Asian cuisine. –In the 1950s, food in America was basic types of cuisine lacking in flavor. -Back in San Franscisco, a woman named Cecelia Chiang visits her sister and tries American Chinese food for the first time. Sushi bars are also opening, making Asian food a huge hit….until Chinese Restaurant Syndrome hits the business. -The symptoms (such as swelling) were caused by MSG, a type of flavoring used in different foods, including Asian food.