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01:50

On the eighth day of the fourth month in the traditional Chinese calendar, people in Dongan County, Hunan Province, have long followed the tradition of making "Wufan," also known as "Beginning of Summer" rice. Believed to help strengthen the body, dispel dampness and repel mosquitoes, the dish also carries people's wishes for peace, good fortune and a good life.

The rice is made with fresh herbs gathered from the mountains, including sea bilberry, maple leaves and other local plants. After the herbs are mashed to extract their juice, the liquid is used to soak glutinous rice. This is then stir-fried with ginger, pork belly and fermented black beans before being steamed with Solomon's seal root. The finished dish is glossy black, soft and fragrant, with a fresh herbal aroma.

While preserving traditional techniques, locals have also created new versions such as "wufan" zongzi, buns and dumplings, turning the once seasonal festival food into an everyday delicacy.

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A taste of summer: China's traditional 'Beginning of Summer' rice