Yin Xing Cheng

Yin Xing Cheng Recipe with Ginkgo Nuts, Orange, and Granulated Sugar from Hong Kong

Region / culture: Hong Kong | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

Yin Xing Cheng is a traditional Chinese dessert that combines the unique flavors of ginkgo nuts and oranges. This sweet and refreshing dish is perfect for a light and healthy dessert option.

History

Yin Xing Cheng has been enjoyed in China for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient times. The combination of ginkgo nuts and oranges is believed to have health benefits and is often consumed during the colder months to boost immunity.

Ingredients

8 to 10 fresh ginkgo nuts
1 large orange
2 tbsp granulated sugar

How to prepare

Cut a small opening at the top of the orange, approximately 0.2 inches in diameter.
Carefully remove the contents of the orange and dice them.
Boil the ginkgoes for 10 minutes, then remove the shells and membranes.
Cut each ginkgo into 2 pieces and remove the central stalks.
Place the ginkgoes, diced orange, and sugar into the hollowed-out orange.
Pour boiled water into the orange and seal the opening with a bamboo toothpick.
Place the filled orange in a suitable bowl and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes.
Serve hot.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Substitute honey for sugar for a natural sweetener option.
Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to remove the shells and membranes from the ginkgo nuts before cooking to avoid any bitterness.

- Simmering the filled orange over low heat allows the flavors to meld together and creates a delicious syrup.

- Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Yin Xing Cheng can be served as a light dessert after a meal or as a refreshing snack on a hot day.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the filled orange over low heat allows the flavors to meld together and creates a delicious syrup.

Ingredient Substitutions

If ginkgo nuts are not available, you can substitute with chestnuts or walnuts for a similar texture and flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Yin Xing Cheng can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Yin Xing Cheng in individual bowls or on a decorative plate for an elegant presentation. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a slice of orange for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Yin Xing Cheng pairs well with a cup of green tea or a glass of sweet dessert wine for a complete dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Yin Xing Cheng contains approximately 100 calories, making it a light and guilt-free dessert option.

Carbohydrates

Yin Xing Cheng is a low-carb dessert option, with most of the carbohydrates coming from the orange and sugar.

Fats

Ginkgo nuts are a good source of healthy fats, which can help support brain health and reduce inflammation.

Proteins

While Yin Xing Cheng is not a significant source of protein, the ginkgo nuts do provide a small amount.

Vitamins and minerals

Oranges are rich in vitamin C, which can help boost immunity and support skin health. Ginkgo nuts also contain various vitamins and minerals, including potassium and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (ginkgo nuts), which may be allergenic to some individuals.

Summary

Yin Xing Cheng is a nutritious and delicious dessert option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins. It is a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while also getting some health benefits.

Summary

Yin Xing Cheng is a delightful Chinese dessert that combines the flavors of ginkgo nuts and oranges in a sweet and refreshing dish. With its balance of carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins, it is a nutritious and delicious option for a light dessert or snack. Enjoy this traditional recipe for a taste of ancient Chinese cuisine.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still picture the first time I came across the recipe for Yin Xing Cheng. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mei Ling in her quaint little village in China. Mei Ling was known far and wide for her incredible cooking skills, and she had promised to teach me one of her most prized recipes.

As we sat in her cozy kitchen, surrounded by the fragrant aromas of spices and herbs, Mei Ling began to explain the intricate steps of making Yin Xing Cheng. She told me that it was a traditional dish from her grandmother's time, passed down through the generations. The name itself, meaning "Silver Star City," was said to represent the shining flavors and textures of the dish.

The ingredients were simple yet exotic - tender chicken, crunchy water chestnuts, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and fragrant ginger and garlic. Mei Ling explained that the key to making Yin Xing Cheng was patience and attention to detail. Each ingredient had to be prepared and cooked with care, ensuring that the flavors melded together harmoniously.

As we began to prepare the dish, Mei Ling shared stories of her childhood spent in the village, learning the art of cooking from her grandmother. She spoke of the rituals and traditions that surrounded food in their culture, and how each dish was a labor of love and respect for the ingredients.

As the chicken sizzled in the wok, filling the kitchen with its mouthwatering aroma, Mei Ling taught me the importance of balancing flavors in Chinese cuisine. She showed me how to add just the right amount of soy sauce for saltiness, sugar for sweetness, and vinegar for acidity. Each ingredient had its own role to play in creating the perfect symphony of flavors.

After hours of simmering and stirring, the dish was finally ready. Mei Ling presented me with a steaming bowl of Yin Xing Cheng, garnished with fresh cilantro and green onions. The colors and textures of the dish were a feast for the eyes, and the aroma was tantalizing.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavors and aromas I had never experienced before. The tender chicken melted in my mouth, the water chestnuts added a satisfying crunch, and the shiitake mushrooms infused the dish with a rich, earthy flavor. Each bite was a delight for the senses, and I savored every moment of the meal.

After we had finished eating, Mei Ling poured us each a cup of fragrant jasmine tea and sat back with a satisfied smile on her face. She told me that I had done an excellent job with the Yin Xing Cheng, and that I had truly captured the essence of the dish.

As I sat there, sipping my tea and reflecting on the day's cooking lesson, I realized that I had not only learned a new recipe but had also gained a deeper appreciation for the art of cooking and the traditions that surround it. Mei Ling had opened my eyes to a world of flavors and aromas that I had never before explored, and I knew that the recipe for Yin Xing Cheng would hold a special place in my heart for years to come.