Winter Solstice, also known as Dongzhi Festival, is the shortest day of the year, and is one of the most important festivals celebrated by the Chinese population. This year’s Winter Solstice falls on the 22nd of December, which means families will be preparing a dish that is commonly served on this day – the Dongzhi Tang Yuan (Glutinous Rice Dumplings).
Here are some recipes to help you and your family celebrate this day and keep the tradition going!
1. A Touching Traditional Tang Yuan Recipe
Image credit: Rasa Malaysia
The heartwarming story and sweet memories of the author give special meaning to this simple Chinese dessert. We love the colourful dough balls, which are made with pink and yellow edible powder. This dish takes a little more effort if you are making it from scratch, considering the time needed to knead and roll the dough prior to cooking it.
2. Natural Ingredients Only
Image credit: Women’s Weekly
If you prefer natural ingredients to artificial food colouring, then follow this recipe by Women’s Weekly. It uses pandan leaves to make the green dough balls and red dragon fruits for the red ones. This recipe may be a little more complicated than the previous, but definitely deserves a thumbs-up from the health-conscious bunch.
3. A Different Kind of Tang Yuan
Image credit: Just as Delish
Not only is this version of Tang Yuan a different colour from the norm, there is also a dry alternative for those who don’t fancy soupy dishes. Using black sesame and ground cashews, the Black Sesame Tang Yuan gives a different texture, and is certainly crunchier than usual!
Keep your Tang Yuan hot in a Thermos® Food Jar or a portable Shuttle Chef® so you can bring it along to your in-law’s or office. Check out the variety of Thermos® Food Jars here and Shuttle Chef® here.
