China’s Springtime Superfood and Traditional Literature, a unique blend

China’s Springtime Superfood and Traditional Literature, a unique blend of natural health and ancient art | The young sprouts of the Chinese Mahogany or Toon tree (香椿 xiāngchūn, toon sinsensis) are bursting with vitamins, minerals and distinctive nutrients.

Only available for a couple of weeks from the end of March to the beginning of April, the sprouts are a superfood delicacy in dishes all over China such as omelets, tofu salads or dumplings.

Furthermore, the Chinese Mahogany tree is regularly used as a metaphor in Chinese literature and language. The mature tree represents the male stronghold, father or eldest male in a family.

For expressing best wishes to parents of your friend in China in a letter, you can express the following : 椿萱并茂 (chūn xuān bìngmào). Loosely translated to “may your Mahogany Tree and Daylily be happy and strong”.

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