Study of Eating Customs

In the form of notes, this book examines and interprets the basic elements of Chinese food culture and the culinary flavors from various regions, seeking out the cultural traditions embedded in Chinese cuisine. Based on a thorough understanding of numerous documents, the author carefully cites, analyzes, and organizes information, linking together diet, folklore, and a broader range of popular cultural history. This not only forms a rich knowledge background but also retains a strong cultural flavor. In terms of structure, the book begins with the discussion of the "e;Kitchen God"e; worshipped by the Chinese people, followed by essential dietary elements such as water, fire, oil, and salt. It then moves on to staple foods with distinctive flavors like cakes, steamed buns, and noodles, and subsequently explores gourmet dishes from various regions. The book concludes with the "e;Manchu-Han Banquet,"e; thereby constituting a unique "e;history of Chinese food."e;