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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

Spring onion oil noodles with kumquat tea
Major Cold · Breakfast · Qi Stagnation

Spring onion oil noodles with kumquat tea

Noodles tossed in fragrant spring onion oil with a cup of kumquat tea — quick and cheering.

  • 20 min
  • Serves 2
  • Toss
  • Easy
NeutralMoves qiLifts the appetite

Why it suits you: Short days at Major Cold leave qi-stagnation types low. Spring onion opens the yang and kumquat moves qi, lifting the mood.

Method

Prep 10 min · Cook 10 min
  1. 1Fry the spring onion lengths slowly in the oil until golden, then lift out.
  2. 2Add both soy sauces and sugar to the oil and bring to the boil.
  3. 3Cook and drain the noodles, toss in the sauce and top with the fried onion.
  4. 4Halve and squeeze the kumquats, add hot water and a little sugar for tea.

Chef's tips

  • Fry the spring onion slowly so it doesn't turn bitter.

The TCM view

Spring onion is pungent and warm, moving qi; kumquat is pungent, sweet and warm, relieving stagnation; noodles support qi.

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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.

Qi Stagnation

Stress, low mood and frequent sighing

Enjoy: Rose bud tea · Aged tangerine peel · Citrus fruit · Kelp · Daylily buds

Go easy: Too much caffeine · Alcohol · Stress eating

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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.