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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

Fish ball and coriander rice noodle soup
Major Cold · Breakfast · Phlegm-Dampness

Fish ball and coriander rice noodle soup

Springy fish balls in a clear broth with plenty of coriander — light and appetising.

  • 20 min
  • Serves 2
  • Simmer
  • Easy
NeutralResolves phlegmLifts the appetite

Why it suits you: Phlegm-damp types feel heavy with no appetite in the mornings. A clear noodle soup isn't oily, and coriander and daikon move qi and dry damp.

Method

Prep 10 min · Cook 10 min
  1. 1Soak the vermicelli in boiling water and drain.
  2. 2Simmer the sliced daikon in the stock for 5 minutes.
  3. 3Add the fish balls and cook until they float.
  4. 4Add the noodles and salt, then top with coriander and a little white pepper.

Cautions

  • Fish balls are salty, so keep the broth light.

Chef's tips

  • Add the coriander at the end for fragrance.

The TCM view

Fish balls are sweet and neutral; coriander is pungent and warm, opening the appetite; daikon resolves phlegm and aids digestion.

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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.

Phlegm-Dampness

Heaviness, sluggishness and a full belly

Enjoy: Job's tears (coix seed) · Adzuki beans · Winter melon · White radish · Aged tangerine peel

Go easy: Sweets and sugary drinks · Greasy food and late-night snacks · Lots of dairy and cold 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.