Introduction: There is an old saying among the people, “in spring, eat buds; in summer, eat melons; in autumn, eat fruits; in winter, eat roots.” In just 12 words, the wisdom of seasonal eating passed down by our ancestors is vividly described. During the scorching summer days, it is the season when various melons and vegetables are abundant in the market. Most of these melons are rich in water content and have the function of clearing heat and relieving summer heat, making them especially suitable to eat before and after the “San Fu Tian” (three periods of hottest days).
When it comes to eating melons in summer, the elders in our region often say, “eat one melon during the ‘Fu’ period, no need for Chinese medicine.” This means that by paying attention to daily diet to regulate the body, and adjusting the physical and mental states, there will be no need for Chinese medicine. The “one melon” mentioned here refers to the winter melon, also known as the “first melon of summer.”
Winter melon does not contain fat but contains a substance called “Tartrate,” which can inhibit the conversion of sugar substances into fat and also can clear lung heat and relieve heart fire. Winter melon can be prepared in various ways, such as steaming, boiling, stewing with meat soup, and stir-frying.
Next, I will share two ways to cook winter melon, which are also my favorite ways to enjoy winter melon before and after the “San Fu Tian.” Let’s learn about them together.
Recipe: Winter Melon and Dried Tangerine Peel Duck Soup
This soup mainly uses winter melon, duck meat, dried tangerine peel, and barley, all of which are good ingredients for clearing heat and reducing fire in summer. Cooking them together as a soup results in a refreshing and appetizing taste.
1. Prepare half a duck, wash it, cut it into small pieces, blanch in cold water with some cooking wine, skim off the foam, and drain off the water.
2. Take 250 grams of winter melon, remove the seeds, keep the skin, cut into large pieces, and also prepare a small amount of dried tangerine peel and barley.
3. Heat some oil in a pot, sauté some ginger slices until fragrant, then add the duck meat and stir-fry until the moisture in the meat dries up.
4. Add enough hot water to the pot, put in the barley, bring to a boil over high heat, then simmer over low heat for 1 hour.
5. Add the winter melon and dried tangerine peel, continue to cook for 20 minutes, season with a little salt before serving.
Recipe: Stir-Fried Winter Melon with Dried Shrimp
Stir-frying winter melon alone may taste bland and not be very appetizing to accompany rice. If possible, you can add some dried shrimp to stir-fry the winter melon. Although only a small amount of dried shrimp is used, it can enhance the taste and texture of the winter melon, giving it a meaty flavor.
1. Take 250 grams of winter melon, remove the skin, seeds, and cut the flesh into small pieces.
2. Prepare a small handful of dried shrimp, which when paired with winter melon, turns this vegetarian dish into a savory delight.
3. Heat oil in a pan, sauté some minced garlic until fragrant, then add the dried shrimp and stir-fry until golden brown.
4. Add the winter melon, stir-fry for a while, add some soy sauce and oyster sauce, pour in half a bowl of water.
5. Cover with a lid, simmer for 10 minutes, then uncover and cook on high heat to reduce the sauce. Serve hot, it’s definitely a delicious dish to go with rice.
Recommendations for Eating Winter Melon during San Fu Tian:
When enjoying winter melon during the three hottest periods, remember these 3 tips, they might be helpful:
1. When making winter melon soup during the hottest periods, it is recommended to keep the melon skin as it contains rich nutrients that should not be wasted.
2. Winter melon is a diuretic ingredient, so try not to eat it right before bedtime as frequent urination may affect sleep.
3. Winter melon has a cooling nature, avoid eating it raw. If you tend to feel cold in your hands and feet or generally have a cold constitution, consume winter melon in moderation.
Above are the culinary recipes shared with you today. If you find them useful, be sure to save them. Of course, if you have any dishes you’re not sure how to make, feel free to leave me a message!
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