When enjoying mooncakes, a traditional delicacy, there are several tips to enhance the experience. Firstly, if both sweet and savory mooncakes are presented, it is recommended to taste the savory mooncake first before transitioning to the sweet mooncake. This way, each flavor can be more distinctly appreciated without overshadowing one another.
Pairing mooncakes with tea is a great tip. Mooncakes have a rich texture but can be slightly greasy; at this point, a cup of light tea not only helps to relieve greasiness but also adds a touch of elegance, enhancing the flavor of the mooncake.
It is important to note that while mooncakes are delicious, they should not be consumed in excess. Due to their high sugar and fat content, overindulgence may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, especially for the elderly, children, and those with poor digestive function, so consumption should be moderated.
Freshness is key to ensuring the taste and safety of mooncakes. It is best to eat mooncakes as soon as they are purchased to avoid prolonged storage that can lead to spoilage of the filling and potential health issues. Proper storage of leftover mooncakes during the festival is particularly important.
Mooncakes can be divided into two categories based on their filling: soft and hard. Soft filling mooncakes contain more moisture and have a shorter shelf life of about 7 to 10 days, while hard filling mooncakes can be stored for about a month. Therefore, one should consider the family’s actual consumption rate when purchasing, and opt for fresh products when possible.
As seasonal food, mooncakes are best enjoyed fresh. Whether produced, sold, or consumed, freshness is the top priority, and they should not be stored for too long to avoid affecting the color, aroma, taste, and unique flavor of the mooncake.
For families without refrigeration, traditional storage methods can be employed: place the mooncakes in a breathable bamboo basket, cover the basket with a layer of clean paper, and then hang it in a cool, ventilated place. If the mooncakes are in a boxed package, the lid should be opened to maintain air circulation, and light should be avoided to prevent oxidation and spoilage of the fats, thus better preserving the original flavor of the mooncakes.
