Start of Autumn Traditional Foods Culinary Customs Regional Dishes Seasonal Ingredients Celebratory Meals
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Aug . 07, 2025 11:19
The Start of Autumn is a time of culinary celebration, with traditional foods, regional dishes, and seasonal ingredients taking center stage in households across China and other cultures that observe this solar term. These culinary customs not only satisfy the palate but also carry deep cultural meanings, reflecting the connection between food, nature, and tradition.
At the heart of Start of Autumn celebrations is the concept of eating to prepare for the changing seasons. Ancient wisdom holds that the body needs to replenish energy lost during the hot summer months and build up strength to withstand the colder winter ahead. This belief has given rise to a variety of traditional foods and eating customs that are observed on or around the Start of Autumn.
One of the most widespread traditions is “tietieubiao,” or “sticking autumn fat,” as mentioned earlier. This custom involves consuming rich, high-calorie foods to “fatten up” for the winter. In northern China, pork is a popular choice, with dishes like braised pork belly, pork dumplings, and pork ribs being common on Start of Autumn menus. The fatty meat is believed to provide the necessary energy and warmth for the coming months. In some regions, people also eat lamb, which is considered warming in traditional Chinese medicine.
In southern China, roasted duck is a favored Start of Autumn dish. Duck is thought to balance the body’s “heat” after a summer of consuming cooling foods like watermelon and cucumber. The duck is often seasoned with spices like star anise, cinnamon, and ginger, giving it a rich, savory flavor. It is typically served with rice or noodles, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Another traditional food associated with the Start of Autumn is watermelon, which is eaten as part of the “kengiu” or “biting autumn” custom. This practice is believed to help cool the body and prevent autumn dryness, which can cause symptoms like dry skin and sore throats. In some areas, people also eat other fruits such as grapes, peaches, and pears, which are in season and abundant at this time of year.
Seasonal vegetables play a prominent role in Start of Autumn meals as well. Sweet potatoes, which begin to mature in autumn, are a popular ingredient, often roasted, mashed, or used in soups. They are rich in vitamins and fiber, making them a nutritious choice for the season. Pumpkins, another autumn staple, are used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to desserts like pumpkin pie. Their natural sweetness and versatility make them a favorite in many households.
Chestnuts, which start to ripen in autumn, are also a beloved Start of Autumn food. They can be roasted and eaten as a snack, or used in savory dishes like chestnut braised chicken or sweet dishes like chestnut cake. Chestnuts are high in carbohydrates and protein, providing a good source of energy for the cooler months.
Regional differences in China lead to a diverse array of Start of Autumn dishes. In Shandong Province, people often eat boiled peanuts, which are harvested in late summer and early autumn. The peanuts are boiled with salt and spices, making them a tasty and nutritious snack. In Zhejiang Province, a popular dish is “autumn melon soup,” made with winter melon, which is believed to help clear heat from the body. In Guangdong Province, people enjoy “lotus root pork ribs soup,” a nourishing soup that is thought to moisten the lungs and prevent dryness.
Beyond China, other cultures that mark the arrival of autumn have their own culinary traditions. In Western countries, autumn is associated with foods like apples, pumpkins, and squash, which are used in dishes like apple pie, pumpkin soup, and roasted butternut squash. Harvest festivals often feature feasts with roasted meats, vegetables, and hearty breads, celebrating the abundance of the season.
In modern times, these traditional Start of Autumn foods and custaditional Start of Autumn foods and customs continue to be observed, albeit with some adaptations. Urban dwellers may not have access to fresh, locally grown produce, but they can still purchase seasonal ingredients from supermarkets. Many families make an effort to gather for a special meal on the Start of Autumn, even if they are busy with work and other commitments. This emphasis on family and food helps to keep traditional customs alive and pass them down to younger generations.
Restaurants also get in on the Start of Autumn celebrations, offering special menus featuring seasonal ingredients and traditional dishes. This not only attracts customers but also helps to promote and preserve culinary traditions. Food companies may launch limited-edition products, such as pumpkin-flavored snacks or chestnut-based desserts, to capitalize on the seasonal demand.
In conclusion, the Start of Autumn is a time of culinary delight, with traditional foods, regional dishes, and seasonal ingredients taking center stage. These culinary customs reflect the deep connection between food, nature, and culture, and play an important role in bringing families and communities together.
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