Flavorful memories of spring

[Video by Li Jinhao and Sun Jinyi for chinadaily.com.cn]

Before Grain Rain, the sixth of the 24 solar terms in the traditional Chinese solar calendar, is the best time to pick Chinese toon in Houxuan village, Wucheng county, located in Dezhou, Shandong province. The village is known for its sandy, soft soil rich in calcium, which is ideal for the growth of Chinese toon.

The villagers there have been cultivating Chinese toon trees for over 300 years. The best time to enjoy Chinese toon is during these few days of the year when the leaves are tender, fragrant, and delicious.

The vegetable's taste is thought to evoke nostalgia and its delightful aftertaste will linger on your tongue for years to come. (Edited by Yu Ning and Du Xiaping)