Listen to this articleSummer is here, and with it comes the heat and humidity that can make life uncomfortable. In traditional Chinese medicine, certain foods are believed to have a “cooling” effect on the body, helping to alleviate heat-related discomfort. In this article, we will introduce popular Chinese treats that are perfect for beating the summer heat.
Bitter Melon in Sauce
Bitter melon, also known as bitter gourd or karela, is a type of vine grown for its edible fruit, which is characterized by its distinctive bitter taste. Bitter melon in sauce is a popular dish in China, made by stir-frying bitter melon with garlic, ginger, and chili peppers. This dish is not only delicious but also has health benefits, as bitter melon is believed to have a cooling effect on the body.
Smashed Cucumbers with Sesame Oil and Garlic
Smashed cucumbers with sesame oil and garlic are a refreshing and appetizing dish that is perfect for hot summer days. The cucumbers are first smashed to release their juices, then mixed with sesame oil, garlic, and chili peppers. This dish is not only delicious but also has a cooling effect on the body, making it perfect for beating the summer heat.
Duck Soup
Duck soup is a classic Chinese dish that is believed to have a cooling effect on the body. The soup is made by simmering duck meat in a savory broth with ginger, garlic, and chili peppers. The soup is then served with noodles or rice, making it a complete and nutritious meal.
Mung Bean Soup
Mung bean soup is a traditional Chinese soup made with mung beans, which are believed to have a cooling effect on the body. The soup is made by simmering mung beans with ginger, garlic, and chili peppers. This soup is a popular dish in China, perfect for hot summer days.
Grass Jelly
Grass jelly is a popular Chinese dessert made with grass juice, sugar, and water. The dessert is perfect for hot summer days, as it is believed to have a cooling effect on the body.
Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is a popular Chinese tea made with ginger, sugar, and water. The tea is believed to have a cooling effect on the body.
Rice Wine
Rice wine, also known as glutinous rice wine, is a popular Chinese wine made with glutinous rice, sugar, and water. The wine is believed to have a cooling effect on the body.
