allonlinenovel Chapter 284 Beginning of Winter (2)
Chapter 284 Beginning of Winter (2)
Eating Eggs: In the picturesque Jiangnan region, the beginning of winter is celebrated with a time-honored and fascinating custom: eating eggs. Those smooth, round eggs not only symbolize the beginning and continuation of new life, but also hold beautiful wishes for a bountiful harvest and abundance. People firmly believe that eating eggs during the chilling winter months can effectively strengthen the body and protect against various illnesses. Consequently, every household meticulously prepares delicious egg dishes, whether boiled, fried, or steamed, filling the house with the rich aroma of eggs.
Other Customs: Across the vast land of China, different regions have their own unique Lidong customs. For example, in the warm and generous Shandong region, people relish malt sugar on Lidong Day. The sweet taste seems to convey blessings for a happy and fulfilling life, bringing a warm feeling to the heart. In the historic Henan region, the tradition of eating noodles is prevalent. The long, thin noodles are endowed with auspicious symbols of longevity, and every bite is filled with people's earnest hopes for health and longevity. In the economically prosperous Guangdong region, peanuts are an indispensable delicacy on the Lidong dinner table. People devour peanuts in devout prayers for prosperous business and abundant wealth in the coming year. Furthermore, in some regions, winter swimming is a popular sport for the brave. As the biting wind howls, groups of self-reliant individuals bravely plunge into the freezing water, welcoming the arrival of winter in this unique way and demonstrating their resilience and positive spirit. These rich and varied customs of the Beginning of Winter are like a series of splendid folk paintings, together depicting the profound cultural heritage and colorful life scenes of the Chinese nation."
As Luota vividly recounts the traditional Chinese celebrations of the Beginning of Winter, the projections shift scenes and details, transporting viewers back to that distant era. Through these lifelike images, viewers can immerse themselves in the unique ways Chinese people celebrated the Beginning of Winter and the rich local customs and practices of the time.
Meanwhile, the livestream room was already buzzing with activity! Fans who hadn't been able to attend the nursery in person could only watch helplessly on screen, wailing endlessly. Meanwhile, those lucky enough to have been there, after Lotta's explanation had concluded and they had a moment to check the livestream comments, began boasting about their lucky experience.
Netizen "Only Loves to Eat Meat" excitedly commented: "I really have to say, this nursery on Ceres is truly eye-opening! It's completely different from those cold, technological nurseries elsewhere. It's overflowing with a strong sense of humanity!"
Another netizen named "Maggie is my baby" quickly echoed this sentiment, saying, "That's right! After visiting the kindergarten, I finally understand why Maggie and the other children are so much more lively and adorable than the children at other loving kindergartens! It's because every teacher here truly loves the children!"
... As I scrolled through the enthusiastic messages left by fans in the livestream today, I couldn't help but feel an indescribable joy welling up in my heart. This joy stemmed not only from witnessing our efforts being recognized, but more importantly, from the fact that even these fans were keenly aware of the children's good spirits. This undoubtedly proves one thing: our children are truly happy and joyful here!
After explaining the customs of the Beginning of Winter, the atmosphere became increasingly lively. Everyone was eager to start making dumplings! After a quick and orderly grouping, the dumpling-making competition finally officially kicked off.
For a moment, the arena was filled with laughter and joy. Everyone worked together, some rolling the dough, others wrapping the dumplings, and still others helping to arrange the finished products. The children, not to be outdone, were equally enthusiastic. Though their movements were a little clumsy, their dedication was truly captivating. The cheerful laughter echoed endlessly, like a beautiful symphony, resonating endlessly in the air.
Meanwhile, enthusiastic fans were also busy cheering and capturing this unforgettable moment with their phones. Their exciting shouts, like waves, swept over, filling the entire space with joy and warmth.
Looking at this beautiful scene, a warm feeling welled up in my heart, filled with joy and relief. This Lidong event is far more than just a simple gathering; it is more like a feast of love, where everyone is spreading warmth and sharing happiness.
Time flies, and in a blink of an eye, plates of dumplings, each in a different shape but equally delicious, are ready. A tantalizing aroma gradually wafts from the kitchen, the unique aroma of dumplings tumbling and cooking in the pot. Volunteers and staff carefully carry these plates filled with happiness and walk briskly towards the dining room.
The children, unable to contain their excitement, rushed to the dining table like a flock of happy birds. Their cheeks were rosy, their eyes sparkling with anticipation, and they were eagerly waiting to taste the food they had personally helped to prepare.
At this moment, someone in the crowd suddenly suggested, "Why don't we have some mutton soup to warm ourselves up before enjoying the delicious dumplings?" This suggestion was immediately met with approval. Soon after, bowl after bowl of steaming, fragrant mutton soup was served on the table.
The children couldn't wait any longer. As they carefully picked up the bowls of mutton soup and took a sip, their previously dull eyes suddenly brightened like twinkling stars in the night sky. They danced with excitement, exclaiming, "Wow, this mutton soup is so delicious!"
"You know, the ingredients used to make mutton soup are all from a very special source! Yesterday, we brought back some fresh mutton from the base, ready to enjoy it. Last night, Aunt Aura took the trouble to carefully clean the mutton and soaked it in clean water for a long time to allow the blood to seep out. And this morning, as soon as we arrived here, Aunt Aura immediately started cooking this delicious dish - mutton soup.
Although the sheep raised at the base aren't particularly muttony, I decided to blanch them first to ensure the final product has a more authentic and delicious flavor. Alas, a large clay pot would have been even better! After all, mutton soup slowly simmered in a clay pot is truly divine, and the flavor is definitely elevated. Unfortunately, due to our large number of people, we simply couldn't find a large enough pot. So, we had to resort to the rather rudimentary wood stove in the small kitchen. Surprisingly, even the mutton soup cooked on this stove was incredibly delicious!
To make a delicious, mouth-watering mutton soup, first, make sure you have a pot full of warm water, at least 40 degrees Celsius. This is a great secret; it prevents the mutton from shrinking due to the cold. Then, toss the carefully prepared scallions and ginger into the pot, along with the magical stewing herb packet. Next, simmer over medium-low heat. Don't underestimate this step; the key to this incredibly delicious beef and mutton soup lies in the herb packet!
During the long simmering process, remember not to rush to add salt. Wait until the lamb is tender and flavorful before adding the proper seasoning. This approach has many benefits, not only making the lamb more tender and delicious, but also preventing any annoying gums from getting stuck in your teeth. And just like that, after some patient waiting, our fragrant lamb soup is finally ready and ready to be served!