How to enjoy Major Snow via food when there's no snow

Major Snow does not necessarily mean heavy snowfall. Instead, Hangzhou, with its cooling temperatures, reveals its distinctive Jiangnan allure through a series of soft, lingering drizzles.

Ilham Mokni and her teacher Xu Ningjun went on an adventure at Dama Lane

How can we find a more tangible winter in Hangzhou? Ilham Mokni from Morocco, upon discovering the bustling atmosphere of Dama Lane in Hangzhou, went on the adventure with her teacher, Xu Ningjun, to dive into the real vibe of Hangzhou. They found the steaming hot soup dumplings, spring pancake skins made dozens at a time in just a minute, and the traditional customs of "pickling vegetables during Minor Snow and curing meat during Major Snow" alive, with rows of salted fish and sauced ducks hanging on the street.

Solar Terms and the Universe is a special video series jointly produced by Hangzhoufeel, the International Education School of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, and the International Relations Office of ZCMU. Each episode provides you with intimate knowledge about Solar Terms and health tips.
The latest episode records the trip to Dama Lane during the Major Snow and Ilham penned her impressions of Hangzhou's winter vibrancy:
As winter deepens, the ancient Chinese solar term “Major Snow” (大雪, Dàxuě) marks a pivotal time in the traditional agricultural calendar. Falling roughly between December 7 and 22, Major Snow is the 21st of the 24 solar terms, heralding the onset of heavier snowfall in northern China and a notable drop in temperatures across the country. While its name suggests wintry weather, Major Snow is about more than just the climate—it’s a time for gathering, reflecting, and indulging in warming, seasonal foods that carry centuries of cultural significance.
This shift is not just meteorological but deeply connected to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which encourages eating foods that warm the body, nourish the blood, and boost energy during the cold months. Some traditional foods associated with this time include: Mutton Hotpot (羊肉火锅), dumplings (饺子), sticky Rice Cakes (糍粑)…

Scallion pancake wrap

I was lucky enough to meet my teacher Xu Ningjun at one of the historic alleys in Hangzhou: Dama Lane. He introduced me to a breakfast item that reflects the ingenuity of Chinese street food culture during the Major snow period: 葱包桧儿 (scallion pancake wrap). Scallions are known to expel cold, promote circulation, and open up the respiratory passages. They are particularly beneficial in alleviating early symptoms of colds. As a carbohydrate-heavy snack, 葱包桧儿 provides a quick source of energy, which is particularly useful in colder weather when the body needs extra fuel to stay warm.

Stewed Duck in soy sauce

I also had a taste of one of Hangzhou culinary delicacies : Stewed Duck in soy sauce. It is not just a flavorful dish but a reflection of TCM’s wisdom in blending food and health. By combining the cooling qualities of duck with warming spices, this dish exemplifies the Chinese philosophy of achieving balance in all aspects of life—be it diet, health, or harmony with nature.

Pickled vegetables

Major Snow also highlights winter’s bounty, such as Chinese cabbage, radishes, and sweet potatoes. These vegetables are incorporated into soups, stews, and stir-fries, providing vitamins and nutrients vital for the season. Preserved foods like salted fish, pickled vegetables, and cured meats are also staples, reflecting the ingenious methods of preservation used by Chinese communities to sustain themselves during harsher months.

As the snow falls and the scent of simmering broths wafts through homes, Major Snow reminds us of the enduring power of tradition and the universal comfort of a warm meal. In every dumpling folded and every pot of soup stirred, the spirit of the season is celebrated—nourishing not only the body but also the heart.
Source: Hangzhoufeel