Spring transforms Wengshan Village in Zezhou County into a sea of green as locals celebrate a bountiful Xiangchun harvest. Xiangchun, commonly known as Chinese toon, refers to the tender young shoots of the Toona sinensis tree. Its unique, pine-like fragrance and subtle bitterness have made it a seasonal must-have across the Chinese mainland.
Beyond its bold aroma, Xiangchun packs a nutritional punch—rich in vitamins and antioxidants that boost the body after winter’s chill. In kitchens across Shanxi, these bright green shoots are at home in simple, soul-warming dishes: tossed with tofu, folded into fluffy scrambled eggs, or sprinkled over cold noodles for a refreshing spring twist.
Harvesting Xiangchun is a hands-on affair. Farmers gingerly clip each shoot to preserve its tender texture, then spread them out to dry in the warm sun before they reach market stalls. This age-old ritual not only supports local livelihoods but also connects community members to the rhythms of the land.
For global food enthusiasts, Xiangchun’s bold flavor offers a fresh perspective on spring cuisine. Whether you’re a digital nomad chasing new tastes or a young chef exploring sustainable ingredients, these fragrant shoots are a reminder that the season’s best flavors often lie in traditions rooted deep in the soil. Have you ever tried Xiangchun? Share your favorite spring flavors with us!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
