Among the traditional Chinese Xi customs, eating dumplings on the winter solstice is a long-standing Xi custom, especially in the northern region, this Xi custom is deeply rooted in the hearts of the people. The older generation regards the winter solstice as an important festival, and there is a saying that "the winter solstice is as big as the year". On this day, family gatherings, making dumplings, and eating dumplings symbolize reunion and harmony.
Regarding the Xi of eating dumplings on the winter solstice, there is a widely circulated saying related to the medical saint Zhang Zhongjing. Legend has it that at the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty, in order to treat the poor people who had frostbitten ears in the harsh winter, Zhang Zhongjing invented a medicine called "Dispelling Cold Jiao'er Soup", which was similar in shape to today's dumplings and contained mutton, chili peppers and herbs to ward off the cold. Later, on the day of the winter solstice, people imitated the shape of this medicine, wrapped in dough and meat filling, boiled and eaten, in honor of Zhang Zhongjing's benevolence and benevolence.
With the passage of time, the Xi of eating dumplings on the winter solstice gradually became popular, and it became a must-have food on the winter solstice in the northern region.
In the tradition of the older generation, on the day of the winter solstice, every family will make dumplings, and the whole family will work together, divide labor and cooperate, and enjoy themselves. Dumplings are also filled with a variety of ingredients, including leek eggs, pork green onions, beef onions, etc., each with its own unique flavor.
In addition to commemorating the medical saint Zhang Zhongjing, eating dumplings also has the meaning of "not freezing ears". Because the shape of dumplings resembles ears, it is said that eating dumplings on the winter solstice can prevent frostbite on the ears in winter. Although this is only an allegorical meaning, it also reflects people's desire for health and happiness.
In modern society, despite the accelerated pace of life, the tradition of eating dumplings on the winter solstice is still preserved in many families. On the day of the winter solstice, people make dumplings and eat dumplings, not only to commemorate the sages, but also to express their wishes for family harmony and a happy life. This Xi is also an indispensable part of Chinese food culture, rich in profound cultural connotations and historical values.