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PANguin

Winter · from 20 Jan

Major Cold

大寒

Warm and nourish, prepare for Spring.

Next: Start of Spring on 4 Feb — 15 days

Tailor to a constitution

Shanghai sticky rice roll
Major Cold · Breakfast · Balanced

Shanghai sticky rice roll

Sticky rice wrapped round a crisp dough stick, pork floss and pickles — chewy, crunchy and filling.

  • 1 hr
  • Serves 2
  • Steam
  • Medium
NeutralWarms the stomachFilling

Why it suits you: Major Cold is the coldest point of the year. Chewy sticky rice warms the stomach, and one roll is enough for a neutral constitution.

Method

Prep 20 min · Cook 40 min
  1. 1Rinse and soak both rices for 4 hours, drain, then steam on a cloth on high for 35 minutes.
  2. 2Halve the dough stick and crisp it in the oven or air fryer; chop the pickle.
  3. 3Lay wet cling film down and press out a layer of hot rice.
  4. 4Add the dough stick, floss and pickle, roll up tightly and cut in half.

Cautions

  • Sticky rice is heavy — half a roll is enough for a weak stomach.

Chef's tips

  • Roll while the rice is hot so it holds together.

The TCM view

Glutinous rice is sweet and warm, boosting qi; rice supports the spleen; pork floss nourishes. Balanced overall.

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Seasonal principle

The last term of the year. Protect against extreme cold while preparing the body for the coming Spring. Transition from heavy, greasy tonics to more balanced, gentle nourishment. Start incorporating slightly pungent foods to help the body's energy begin its upward movement for spring.

In season now

In season around Major Cold: Chicken, Yam, Dates, Goji Berries, Black Fungus

Tap an ingredient for its nature, uses and nutrition.

Balanced

Yin–yang, qi and blood in good balance

Enjoy: Whole grains · Seasonal vegetables and fruit · Fish, eggs and tofu

Go easy: Overeating · Very greasy or spicy food · Lots of iced drinks

Not sure of your constitution?

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Based on traditional Chinese medicine for general wellness education — not a medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist, are severe or unusual, please see a doctor or registered Chinese medicine practitioner.