🥟🌈 Did you know there’s a festival in China where people eat colorful dumplings to celebrate the longest night of the year? It’s called the Winter Solstice, or “Dongzhi” in Chinese, and it’s as fun as it is delicious!
What is the Winter Solstice?
The Winter Solstice happens every year around December 21st. It’s the shortest day and the longest night of the year. After this day, the days start getting longer and the nights shorter. People in many countries celebrate this special time, but in northern China, they have a tasty way to do it!
Colorful Dumplings: A Tasty Tradition
In northern China, families come together to make dumplings on the Winter Solstice. But these aren’t just any dumplings—they’re bright and colorful! By using natural ingredients like spinach for green, pumpkin for yellow, and purple yams for purple, they create rainbow-colored dumplings that are super fun and healthy.
Why Dumplings?
There’s a funny saying in China: “If you don’t eat dumplings on the Winter Solstice, your ears might freeze off!” 🥶 Of course, it’s just a joke, but it shows how important dumplings are on this day. Eating dumplings keeps you warm and brings you good luck for the coming year.
Family Fun in the Kitchen
Making dumplings is a big family event. Everyone rolls up their sleeves—from grandparents to little kids. Together, they mix the dough, prepare the fillings, and fold the dumplings into little parcels of joy. It’s a time for family bonding, storytelling, and lots of laughter.
Bring the Tradition Home
This Winter Solstice, why not try making your own colorful dumplings? Gather your family or friends, pick your favorite natural colors, and get creative in the kitchen. Not only will you make tasty treats, but you’ll also be part of a tradition that celebrates togetherness and hope for longer, brighter days ahead.
Happy Winter Solstice! 🌟
Reference(s):
Colorful tradition: Northern China's winter solstice dumplings
cgtn.com
