Move over pumpkin spice lattes – Chengdu has its own winter comfort food! 🍜 Residents of southwest China's cultural hub are marking the Laba Festival today by cooking up steaming bowls of laba congee, a symbolic dish blending grains, beans, and dried fruits that kicks off Lunar New Year preparations.
Celebrated on the eighth day of the twelfth lunar month, this 1,000+ year-old tradition bridges generations through family recipes. "My grandma adds chestnuts for good fortune," shares local student Zhang Mei, 21, while stirring a pot at a community event. 💮
The festival comes as Chengdu temperatures dip to 8°C (46°F), making the warm porridge doubly appealing. Cultural experts note the mix of ingredients symbolizes harmony – a perfect metaphor for the upcoming Spring Festival reunions. 🎊
