The End of Heat solar term signals a gradual cooling of the weather, making it an important period for health maintenance and nourishment. According to traditional health preservation theories, during this season, it is advisable to increase the intake of sour foods to help adjust the balance of yin and yang in the body, strengthen the spleen and stomach, and protect the heart and liver. The recommended four sour recipes—Wumei Hawthorn Chenpi Tea, Preserved Plums with Rock Sugar and Plums, Osmanthus Rock Sugar Hawthorn, and Preserved Plums with Free-Range Chicken Soup—are not only sweet and sour but also bring multiple health benefits. By utilizing these four sour recipes, one can harmonize the internal qi and blood as well as enhance overall health.
1. Wumei Hawthorn Chenpi Tea
Ingredients: Wumei: 10 pieces; Hawthorn: 15 grams (dried hawthorn slices); Chenpi: 5 grams (dried orange peel); Rock sugar: appropriate amount (adjust to taste); Water: 1000 milliliters.
Method:
1. Prepare the ingredients: Rinse the Wumei, hawthorn, and Chenpi with clean water to remove surface dust and impurities. The Wumei can be cut into small pieces with scissors to better release its flavor.
2. Soak Chenpi: Soak the Chenpi in warm water until soft, about 5-10 minutes, then remove and cut into small pieces. This allows the flavor of the Chenpi to blend better into the tea.
3. Brew the tea: Add 1000 milliliters of water to a pot, then add the Wumei, hawthorn slices, and Chenpi, and bring to a boil.
4. Cooking: Once boiling, skim off any foam, then reduce to low heat and simmer for 30 minutes. This allows the fragrant aromas of the Wumei, hawthorn, and Chenpi to fully release, resulting in a rich tea color.
5. Add rock sugar: During the cooking process, add an appropriate amount of rock sugar, adjusting the sweetness to personal taste. Continue to simmer for 10 more minutes until the rock sugar is fully dissolved and the flavor is even.
6. Filter: After cooking, use a strainer to filter the tea, removing the tea residues to obtain a clear tea liquid.
7. Completion: Pour the filtered Wumei Hawthorn Chenpi Tea into a cup. It can be consumed slightly cooled, or ice cubes can be added to make a chilled tea based on personal preference.
Warm reminder:
(1) Both Chenpi and hawthorn are strongly sour ingredients; it is recommended to adjust the amount according to personal taste to avoid overly sour tea.
(2) The cooking time for Wumei, hawthorn, and Chenpi can be adjusted based on personal preference; those who enjoy…
