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PANguin

Spring · from 4 Feb

Start of Spring

立春

Nourish Liver Yang, protect against wind-cold.

Next: Rain Water on 18 Feb — 14 days

Tailor to a constitution

Sweet corn and diced beef on rice
Start of Spring · Lunch · Sensitive (Allergic)

Sweet corn and diced beef on rice

A home version of the Hong Kong café classic, made without egg white: corn and beef to strengthen the spleen and qi.

  • 25 min
  • Serves 2
  • Braise
  • Easy
NeutralStrengthens spleen and qiGuards against wind

Why it suits you: The Sensitive (allergic) type is prone to sniffles and itchy skin, often worse in the windy, changeable Start of Spring, and strengthening the spleen and qi firms the body's defences. Corn and beef are sweet, spleen-supporting foods, and the dish has no seafood or egg.

Method

Prep 10 min · Cook 15 min
  1. 1Marinate the beef with the soy sauce and 1 tsp cornflour for 10 minutes.
  2. 2Fry the onion in hot oil until fragrant, add the beef and stir-fry over high heat until half cooked; lift out.
  3. 3Simmer the stock with the corn and peas for 3 minutes, return the beef, thicken with the remaining cornflour mixed with water and spoon over rice.

Chef's tips

  • Frozen corn and peas can go straight into the pan without thawing.

The TCM view

Beef is sweet and neutral, strengthening the spleen and stomach and building qi and blood. Sweet corn is sweet and neutral and settles the middle; peas strengthen the spleen; onion is pungent and warm and disperses cold. With the spleen strong, defensive qi holds firm.

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Seasonal principle

Spring is the time of the Liver. Focus on gentle movement and eating foods that help the Liver Qi rise. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that can stagnate Qi. It is important to dress warmly to protect against the lingering winter cold, especially around the neck and joints. Engage in light stretching exercises to promote the smooth flow of Qi and blood throughout the body.

In season now

In season around Start of Spring: Chives, Coriander, Ginger, Dates, Honey

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?

Take the 4-minute test and meals will adjust automatically. Start

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.