During the hottest days of summer which are known as the Sanfu days, the sweltering heat often leaves people feeling weary. Throughout history, people have come up with various methods to beat the heat and ease discomfort, bringing out a rich array of traditional culinary delights.

There's a saying that goes like “have dumplings for the first Fu days, and noodles for the second Fu days.” In some regions of northern China, it’s a tradition to eat dumplings when summer’s hottest days begin. Dumplings are shaped like Yuanbao (gold ingots, a symbol of wealth), and the Chinese character “Fu” (伏, "hottest days") sounds like “Fu” (福, "blessing"). Therefore, eating dumplings is believed to bring fortune.

In provinces like Jiangxi and Hunan, eating chicken is a popular choice during Sanfu days. A bowl of rich, flavorful chicken soup helps nourish the body and remove dampness brought by the humid weather, especially when people undergo intense physical exertion during this period.

In places like Xiaoxian county in Anhui province and Xuzhou city in Jiangsu province, the tradition of eating lamb during Sanfu days has a long history. Eating lamb in summer is thought to warm the body, expel dampness, and strengthen overall health.

Sun-drying ginger can be seen in places like Shanxi and Henan provinces during Sanfu days. Eating “Fu Ginger” is believed to help eliminate internal cold and dampness, quench thirst, and refresh the mind.

Drinking "Fu Tea" also enjoys great popularity in many places across China. Brewed from Chinese herbs such as honeysuckle, prunella vulgaris, and licorice, "Fu Tea" is known for quenching thirst and invigorating the mind.

(Text sourced from Xinhua; All photos created by AI; Translators: Ding Lili, Luo Yeyitong, Zheng Tianze)