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PANguin

Winter · from 7 Dec

Major Snow

大雪

Deeply nourish, protect against severe cold.

Next: Winter Solstice on 22 Dec — 15 days

Tailor to a constitution

Roasted chestnuts
Major Snow · Tea break · Balanced

Roasted chestnuts

Chestnuts scored and roasted until hot and sweet, just like the street-corner ones in winter.

  • 35 min
  • Serves 2
  • Roast
  • Easy
NeutralSupports spleen and kidneysWarming

Why it suits you: The smell of roasting chestnuts is part of a Hong Kong winter. Sweet, warm chestnuts make a good afternoon snack for a neutral constitution.

Method

Prep 10 min · Cook 25 min
  1. 1Wash and dry the chestnuts and cut a cross into the flat side.
  2. 2Heat the oven to 200°C and toss the chestnuts in the oil.
  3. 3Roast for 20 minutes, turning once.
  4. 4Dissolve the sugar in the water, brush over and roast for 5 minutes more.

Cautions

  • Chestnuts are filling and can cause wind — don't overdo them.

Chef's tips

  • Cut through the shell so they don't burst.

The TCM view

Chestnuts are sweet and warm, supporting the spleen and kidneys; sugar harmonises.

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Seasonal principle

A time for deep nourishment. Use warming herbs and hearty stews to protect the body's core temperature. Avoid cold drafts and ensure your living environment is adequately heated. Practice gentle indoor exercises like Tai Chi to keep the joints mobile without sweating excessively.

In season now

In season around Major Snow: Mutton, Ginger, Dates, Longan, Leek

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.