Year of the Dragon – Day Eleven

Despite extensive research it appears that “nothing of extreme significance traditionally takes place during the eleventh and twelfth days” of Chinese New Year – one report claims that there is yet “more feasting with friends and family” but not much apart from that.

Stay tuned for our updated tomorrow – we have a special guest blog from social media expert  Andrew Collins.

In the mean time it might be time to indulge in something healthy – especially after 10 days of feasting! Try this recipe for Flowering Chive Stir-Fry

Today’s Horoscopes: (Rooster):
The last year has not been too good to talk about for many Rooster people. This Chinese new year comes with great level of motivation to achieve and excel in life, says the Rooster Chinese horoscope 2012. All the issues of the past will be sorted out by this strong willed Rooster.

Time is ripe to learn new skills and develop them with time. Remember that people are not what they seem to be. You shall experience it as the year passes. Be very cautious of your acquaintances. A sudden change in behavior on positive side should be taken as a sign of caution.

On the work front, Rooster people will have a good start of 2012 with salary hike coming your way. You people are very hard working and have got strong intuition. These abilities of yours will be well judged by your seniors. Rooster Chinese horoscope 2012 says that those people who are tired of their current jobs should make a switch before the first quarter of the year. Grab the opportunity that comes to you.

Facts of the day – Food & Drink:

China has one of the world’s oldest and most varied cooking traditions. Every region, town and ethnic group has its own specialty dishes and different mealtime customs. Food plays an important part of every festival, family gathering and business meeting. Much of the basic diet in China is based on rice and noodles and the usual drink is tea.

People eat using chopsticks made of wood, bamboo or plastic and did you know that 45 billion pairs of disposable chopsticks are used in China each year.

Tea: dozens of different varieties of tea (cha) are grown in China, where tea drinking is part of healthy lifestyle. In ancient China, tea was used as a medicine. Today people drink tea to relax and chat with friends.

Dim Sum: Dim sum is Cantonese for “touch the heart“. These light tasty Chinese snacks are traditionaly served to accompany a bowl of tea.

Dumplings: Cantonese cooking is famous for its dumplings, which are always a part of dim sum. These are made from rice flour and contain various fillings such as prawns, pork, chicken or vegetables. They are presented hot in a steamer.

Phrase of the Day:
“nǐ xiǎng chī shénme” – What would you like to eat?
Like to know how to pronounce it? Click here!