A Bite into Tradition: Mid-Autumn Festival 2024 Food Pairing Guide

Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrated with great fervour across many Asian countries, holds a special place in the hearts of many. This festival, often referred to as Mooncake Festival, is not just about mooncakes but also an array of delicious foods. In this blog post, we delve into the meaning of food during Mid-Autumn Festival in 2024 and uncover the cultural significance behind these delectable dishes.

Mooncakes: The Celestial Delight

Mooncakes are the star of Mid-Autumn Festival. These small pastries filled with sweet or savoury fillings symbolise the reunion of families under the full moon. Traditionally, mooncakes have a lotus seed or red bean paste filling, sometimes with salted egg yolks to represent the moon's glow. This Mid-Autumn Festival 2024, expect to find a diverse range of mooncakes, including modern and innovative flavours that blend tradition with creativity.

Pair your mooncake with Saicho Jasmine or Saicho Hojicha to complement its rich sweetness and decadent filling. 

Hairy Crab (Mitten Crab): Seasonal Delicacy

Hairy crab, also known as mitten crab, is a Shanghai delicacy enjoyed throughout China during the Mid-Autumn Festival, as it is in season from September to October. During this period, the crabs prepare to lay their eggs, which is said to enhance the richness of their flavor. This seasonal treat pairs perfectly with Saicho Hojicha, making it an ideal dish to savour during the festival.

Duck and Pork Dishes: A Feast for the Palate

Mid-Autumn Festival is not just about sweets; savoury dishes are also an integral part of the celebration. Duck and pork dishes, such as roast duck and BBQ pork, are commonly served during family gatherings and feasts. Perfect to pair with Saicho Darjeeling sparkling tea, these flavour-rich dishes symbolise abundance and prosperity, making them a must-have on the dinner table in 2024.

Taro and Sweet Potato: Wholesome Comfort

Taro and sweet potatoes are often used to make traditional snacks and desserts during Mid-Autumn Festival. These sweet treats pair harmoniously with Saicho Jasmine sparkling tea, and represent the bountiful harvest and are enjoyed in various forms, such as taro paste-filled pastries and sweet potato cakes. In 2024, savour the wholesome comfort of these treats as you celebrate the festival.

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Mid-Autumn Festival is a time to cherish family bonds, appreciate the beauty of the full moon, and indulge in a variety of mouthwatering dishes. From sweet mooncakes to savoury delights like duck and pork, and the comforting flavours of taro and sweet potato, each food item carries a unique symbolism that enriches the cultural tapestry of this cherished festival. As you gather with loved ones under the moon's glow this year, remember the profound meaning behind the food that adds depth and flavour to your Mid-Autumn celebration.

Enhance your Mid-autumn festivities by pairing your delicious spread with Saicho sparkling tea, the perfect non-alcoholic companion to complement your Mid-Autumn Festival menu.