December, warmth at winter Solstice

Many areas in China still maintain the ancient tradition of celebrating the Winter Solstice. As the days will become longer after this day, it is a time for hope and new expectations. The traditional food for this time would be warming and comforting soups and meats.

Cha Siu Bao Buns 

Filled steamed bread buns was invented by a famous war strategist Zhu Ge Liang around 2000 years ago. He added meat and vegetables into the plain steamed bread to give his solders more strength. The round shape of the Bao buns also symbolises the togetherness, a great dish for family get togethers.

Wonton Soup

Wonton is a popular snack food in southern China, and different towns and cities would have their own characteristic fillings and broths. The Chinkiang vinegar is a classic accompaniment.

Hand Cut Noodles in Scallion Oil

These noodles are cut from a well kneaded dough, they have a distinct firm texture, and takes on the flavour of the sauce so well. The oil has been slowly infused with scallions, which gives the dish its wonderful fragrance.

Bubbling Minced Pork and Egg Cake

This is a popular dish for this time of the year, as the bubbling soup and the nutritious meat and egg will certainly warm you up.

Mum’s Tofu

Every household in China may have its own version of this dish, the basic ingredients are always Tofu, veg and mushrooms, but the flavours can vary a lot, this is the taste of ‘Mum’s Kitchen’ in every Chinese person’s heart.

Shui Zhu (Spicy Soup) Beef

This is a Sichuan dish that is loved by people all around China. The tender beef slices are so tasty in such a strong and delicious sauce. The original dish would have been fiery, I have tone it down here so it will warm you up without burning your tongue off!

Sweet and Sour Aubergine

Aubergine has been eaten in China for nearly 2000 years, it is no surprise we know a thing or two about how to get the best flavour out of them.

Jasmine rice

Chinese Jasmine rice is softer and slightly stickier than Basmati rice, a good bowl of rice should look white and shiny, individual grains slightly sticking but can still be separated easily. It has a sweet and light fragrance.

Granny Cooper’s Apple Pie

My late mother-in-law has taught me to make this in her own kitchen, it is a dessert loved by the whole family and hopefully you will too. At this time of the year, this warming dessert will bring the family closer together.