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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

Coconut new year cake
Major Cold · Tea break · Balanced

Coconut new year cake

Glutinous rice flour steamed with coconut milk and brown sugar, then sliced and pan-fried — crisp outside, chewy inside.

  • 1 hr
  • Serves 4
  • Steam
  • Medium
NeutralBoosts qiWarms the stomach

Why it suits you: Major Cold comes just before the New Year, when nian gao symbolises rising fortunes. Moderately sweet and pan-fried in small pieces, it suits a neutral constitution.

Method

Prep 15 min · Cook 45 min
  1. 1Dissolve the sugar in the water and cool.
  2. 2Mix the flours, then whisk in the syrup and coconut milk until smooth.
  3. 3Pour into an oiled tin and steam on high for 45 minutes.
  4. 4Cool, slice and pan-fry in a little oil until golden.

Cautions

  • Sticky rice is heavy — two or three slices at a time.

Chef's tips

  • Chill overnight before slicing so it doesn't stick.

The TCM view

Glutinous rice is sweet and warm, boosting qi; coconut generates fluids; brown sugar harmonises.

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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

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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.