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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

Steamed grass carp with broccoli
Major Cold · Dinner · Damp-Heat

Steamed grass carp with broccoli

Steamed grass carp with stir-fried broccoli — little oil and salt, a light break between festive feasts.

  • 30 min
  • Serves 2
  • Steam
  • Easy
NeutralClears damp-heatLight

Why it suits you: Damp-heat types overdo fried and cured food at year's end. Steamed fish and broccoli give the gut a rest.

Method

Prep 15 min · Cook 15 min
  1. 1Rinse and dry the fish and top with ginger.
  2. 2Steam on high for 10 minutes and pour off the liquid.
  3. 3Top with spring onion, then pour over hot oil and the soy sauce.
  4. 4Cut the broccoli into florets, blanch for 1 minute and stir-fry with garlic.

Chef's tips

  • Discard the steaming liquid to remove any fishy taste.

The TCM view

Grass carp is sweet and warm, settling the stomach; broccoli is sweet and neutral, clearing damp-heat.

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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.

Damp-Heat

Oily skin, breakouts and a bitter taste

Enjoy: Mung beans · Winter melon and cucumber · Bitter melon · Celery · Job's tears

Go easy: Spicy, fried and barbecued food · Alcohol · Rich, sugary food

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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.