Cuisine and Culture – Chinese Family

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Cuisine and culture of China
Even though I no longer reside in my birthplace of Shanghai, I still feel a solid connection to it. Part of my fascination with China stems from the richness and complexity of its culture and cuisine. Through my research, I have sought to gain a deeper understanding of the various aspects that contribute to its unique character. From its ancient civilization to its contemporary, bustling cities, China is a land of endless opportunities for exploration. Chinese people are often characterized by qualities such as perseverance, hard work, and dedication, as well as a strong sense of filial piety. These values may stem partly from the influence of essential religions such as Buddhism, Daoism, and Confucianism. Shanghai, in particular, is home to many religious and spiritual practices, with Buddhism being the most prominent. As for cuisine, rice is a staple in China, and Chinese dishes are known for their fresh ingredients, unique flavors, and healthy cooking methods. Shanghai's traditional dishes, such as xiaolongbao and shengjianbao, are loved for their savory flavors and chewy textures. Socializing over food is an integral part of life in Shanghai, making the city an ideal destination for exploring Chinese culture and cuisine. (studyinshanghai.net).
Figure SEQ Figure \* ARABIC 1: A map of Shanghai | Chineseerbes.com
Practices
While Confucianism has a long and storied history in China, Buddhism is the dominant religion in Shanghai. For many residents, Buddhism is a way of life, with practices and rituals woven into their everyday lives. Buddhists emphasize the importance of compassion, mindfulness, and non-attachment to achieve inner peace and harmony. This philosophy is reflected in many aspects of Shanghai’s life, from how people dress to the symbols they display. Buddhist monks and nuns dress in long robes and shave their heads, while lay people tend to dress in simple, modest clothing. Buddhist symbols, such as the lotus flower and the wheel of dharma, can be found throughout the city. (Stacy Zhang).
Figure SEQ Figure \* ARABIC 2: The parasol, the Dharma wheel, the vase, the eternal knot, two goldfish | Ancientsymbols.com
One of Shanghai's most important Buddhist celebrations is the Spring Festival or Chinese New Year. Just like in Confucian and other religious practices, this annual festival marks the beginning of the new year on the lunar calendar and is celebrated in late January or early February. Families gather to enjoy traditional foods, exchange gifts and celebrate the coming year. In this way, Buddhism is an integral part of life in Shanghai, from the everyday practices of its residents to the major celebrations that punctuate the year.
Figure SEQ Figure \* ARABIC 3: The Yuyuan Garden celebrates the annual Spring festival with beautiful performances | CFP
Agricultural Practices
Rice is an integral part of Chinese culture as a staple food and a key export. As the world's largest producer and exporter of rice, China is responsible for an incredible amount of the global supply. In 2018, for example, the country produced 148 million metric tons of the crop (Statista). For many people in China and other Asian cou...