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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

Chinese yam and black sesame paste
Major Snow · Tea break · Qi Deficiency

Chinese yam and black sesame paste

Black sesame and fresh yam blended into a smooth, nutty paste that boosts qi and nourishes blood.

  • 30 min
  • Serves 2
  • Simmer
  • Easy
NeutralBoosts qi and bloodSupports the spleen

Why it suits you: Qi-deficient people tire easily and feel light-headed at Major Snow. Yam supports the spleen and black sesame nourishes blood, blended to be easy to digest.

Method

Prep 10 min · Cook 20 min
  1. 1Toast the sesame in a dry pan; soak the rice for 1 hour.
  2. 2Peel, dice and steam the yam.
  3. 3Blend the sesame, rice, yam and water until smooth.
  4. 4Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring constantly, and dissolve in the sugar.

Cautions

  • Sesame is oily — go easy with loose stools.

Chef's tips

  • Stir constantly so it doesn't catch.

The TCM view

Yam is sweet and neutral, supporting spleen qi; black sesame nourishes liver, kidneys and blood; rice supports the spleen.

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  • Right for Major Snow
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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.

Qi Deficiency

Low energy, tires easily and catches colds

Enjoy: Chinese yam · Millet and pumpkin · Red dates · Chicken and beef · Shiitake and soybeans

Go easy: Raw, cold food and iced drinks · Crash dieting · Greasy, heavy meals

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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.