“The autumn chill is creeping in, the last phase of summer heat feels like it’s scorching hot,” this year’s last phase of summer falls after the beginning of autumn, with temperatures still very high and expected to remain that way for a while. An old saying goes, “The seven essentials at the door are firewood, rice, oil, salt, sauce, vinegar, and tea.” What should we eat during this last phase of summer? It is recommended to reduce two flavors and increase one fruit and three vegetables to alleviate some discomfort in autumn and winter.
Reduce Two Flavors
(1) Spicy flavors
In high-temperature weather, the mouth feels bland, and everything seems tasteless. Many people prefer to eat spicy foods during this time, as sweating can feel very refreshing. However, eating this way can increase bodily strain and lead to issues such as heatiness and constipation.
(2) Cold foods
The most difficult time of the year is during the dog days of summer. Although the last phase of summer is the final stretch, the temperatures remain high and should not be underestimated. People inevitably crave cool foods during this sweltering heat, such as ice-cold watermelon, beer, and beverages. Since the last phase of summer occurs after the beginning of autumn, which is noticeably drier, consuming such cold foods can lead to stomach aches and diarrhea, so it is best to avoid them as much as possible.
Increase One Fruit
Apple
After the beginning of autumn, apples have started to appear in the market, and their sour taste is very appetizing. Since the temperatures remain high during the last phase of summer, keeping an apple handy can quench thirst and satisfy hunger.
① We take an apple and peel it. Cut the apple’s flesh and put it into a blender.
② Add 20 grams of millet and 2 pitted dates, pour in 600 milliliters of cold water, and start the soymilk mode.
③ After the blender stops, skim off the foam from the surface and pour it into a cup to enjoy.
Increase Three Vegetables
(1) Choy Sum
In some regions of China, there is a saying that “one cannot go a day without greens,” referring to vegetables. As we enter the last phase of summer, the prolonged high temperatures have diminished appetites. A little choy sum at this time is refreshing and not greasy, making it pleasant to eat.
① We cut 100 grams of oil tofu into small pieces. Prepare 300 grams of choy sum, tear it apart, and soak it in lightly salted water for 10 minutes. Rinse the choy sum several times and drain the water. Boil water in a pot and blanch the choy sum once the water is boiling. After 20 seconds, remove the choy sum, rinse it with cold water, and drain excess water.
② Pour some lard into the pot, add a few garlic cloves, and sauté until fragrant. Add the oil tofu and stir-fry for a while. Pour…
