We often hear the older generation mention the “dog days of summer,” which actually refers to the hottest period of the year. These dog days are divided into early, mid, and late stages. Starting from July 15th this year, we have entered this period, where temperatures are high, air pressure is low, humidity is high, and wind speeds are low, making it extremely hot. Although the dog days can be unbearable due to the heat, the positive energy during this time can help quickly replenish the body’s yang energy, promote faster blood circulation, and metabolism, aiding in expelling cold and dampness from the body. Besides external adjustments, it is essential to also focus on internal consumption when taking care of the body during the dog days. As the saying goes, “Take the three treasures in the dog days, no worries in the bitter summer.” So, what exactly are these “three treasures”? Let’s explore them together below!
The First Treasure: Bitter Melon.
Bitter melon is a seasonal vegetable that should not be missed in the summer. It is rich in nutrients, containing various vitamins and minerals. Bitter melon not only helps to clear heat, nourish blood, invigorate qi, tonify the kidneys and spleen, and nourish the liver for better eyesight, but its bitterness also stimulates appetite. Therefore, after entering the dog days, consuming more bitter melon can provide a cooling and refreshing sensation, while also supplementing the body with necessary nutrients, helping individuals have a pleasant summer. However, many people are hesitant to try bitter melon due to its bitter taste, especially children at home who refuse to eat it. To reduce the bitterness of bitter melon, all we need to do is identify the source of bitterness.
The method is simple. Firstly, remove the core of the bitter melon, as the surrounding white membrane is very bitter. To easily remove this bitter white membrane, you can use a stainless steel spoon until all the white parts are removed.
Secondly, cut the bitter melon into small pieces and sprinkle some salt over it. Let the bitter melon marinate with salt for about ten minutes. After marinating, the bitter liquid from the bitter melon will be drawn out. Then, discard the bitter liquid, rinse the bitter melon several times with clean water to remove the salty taste, and it will be ready for cooking. By preparing bitter melon this way, it will be less bitter to eat.
The Second Treasure: Dumplings.
Many may have heard the saying, “Eat dumplings in the first dog days and noodles in the second,” indicating the tradition of eating dumplings during the initial dog days. In Chinese traditional culture, dumplings symbolize reunion and happiness, and in summer, when appetites are often affected by the heat, consuming dumplings can increase appetite. The auspicious meaning of dumplings can bring peace and happiness, ensuring a smooth passage through the dog days. Additionally, summer is a season of abundant wheat harvest, and dumplings made from freshly ground flour are chewy, nutritious, delicious, and healthy. Therefore, consuming dumplings in moderation during the dog days is a good choice.
The Third Treasure: Mung Beans.
Mung beans are considered a staple in summer, whether it’s mung bean soup from a late-night food stall or mung bean popsicles from an ice cream shop, they are always popular. In the high temperatures of summer, one may lose their appetite and feel unenthusiastic about eating. Many families choose to make a pot of mung bean porridge for their loved ones during this time. Besides the cooling and thirst-quenching effects, mung beans can replenish water and electrolytes lost due to sweating in high temperatures and prevent heatstroke. Therefore, mung beans are also an essential treasure not to be missed during the dog days. If this article has been helpful to you, please follow and like. Thank you for your support.
