On the twenty-fifth day of the lunar month, in the traditional customs of rural China, this day is known as the day of "grinding tofu". This custom has its roots in ancient folklore, and it was believed that making tofu on this day would ward off calamity, as it symbolized hardship and hard work, and was used to show the heavenly court the simple life on earth for peace and auspiciousness in the coming year.
In the early morning, with the sound of roosters, the villagers start to get busy, preparing the soybeans needed to grind tofu. The stone mill at home is wiped clean, and the soaked soybeans are placed on the grinding plate, and as the grinding disc rotates, the soybeans are gradually ground into delicate soybean milk. This process is not only the processing of ingredients, but also a kind of expectation and blessing for the New Year.
In the process of grinding tofu, laughter can be heard from every house. Children watched curiously, and occasionally they were allowed to try their hand at grinding and experiencing the fun of this traditional activity. Adults guide and tell the story of grinding tofu, passing on the cultural significance behind this custom.
The ground soy milk is boiled, marinated, and coagulated, and finally turned into white tofu. On this day, tofu is not only a delicacy on the table, but also a wish for a better life in the New Year. It is believed that by making tofu with your own hands, you can bring good luck to your family and make the new year full of hope and happiness.
As night falls, fresh tofu is placed on the table of every household, whether it is stewed soup, stir-fried vegetables, or cold salad, each of which contains the expectation of the new year. On the twenty-fifth day of the lunar month, the day of grinding tofu, it is not only the inheritance of traditional crafts, but also the embodiment of family reunion and New Year's blessings. On this day, the aroma of tofu permeates every corner of the countryside, heralding the imminent ringing of the New Year's bell and the preparation of every household for a hopeful New Year.
New Year's Creation Incentive Program