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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 apple with longan and date tea
Major Cold · Tea break · Sensitive (Allergic)

Steamed apple with longan and date tea

Warm, soft steamed apple with a cup of longan and red date tea — simple and natural.

  • 30 min
  • Serves 2
  • Steam
  • Easy
NeutralNourishes qi and bloodLow in common allergens

Why it suits you: Allergy-prone people do best with simple, natural snacks. Steamed apple needs nothing added, and longan with dates nourishes qi and blood.

Method

Prep 10 min · Cook 20 min
  1. 1Simmer the stoned dates and longan in the water for 15 minutes.
  2. 2Wash, halve and core the apples.
  3. 3Steam them cut side up on high for 15 minutes until soft.
  4. 4Serve with the tea.

Cautions

  • Longan is warming — use less if prone to heatiness.

Chef's tips

  • Choose a firm apple so it holds its shape.

The TCM view

Apple is sweet and cool, softened by steaming; longan nourishes blood; dates boost qi. Balanced overall.

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  • For Sensitive (Allergic)
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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.

Sensitive (Allergic)

Sensitive and prone to allergies

Enjoy: Simple, balanced home cooking · Chinese yam and red dates · Brown rice and seasonal vegetables

Go easy: Anything you know you react to · Very spicy food · Alcohol

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.