Chapter 70.1 Moonlit Splendor
Shen Shaoguang presented a steaming bowl of cured meat, pickled bamboo shoots, and pork ribs soup. Its robust flavors were balanced, not overpowering, with the distinct aroma of cured meat that invigorated the weary palates of the drunken guests.
“Delicious!”
Shen Shaoguang was always pleased to receive compliments. Upon hearing this, she grinned and suggested, "In that case, feel free to have more. Pickled bamboo shoots are known to counteract the effects of alcohol."
The guest nodded repeatedly.
Lately, their tavern had introduced a variety of salty and savory congees and soups to their menu. Among them was the minced fish congee Deputy Magistrate Lin had managed to secure two days ago, and the cured meat, pickled bamboo shoots, and pork ribs soup that had just proven to be very welcomed by the guests. In hot weather, sweet porridge and sweet soup might feel too heavy. A salty and savory option, on the other hand, not only replenishes sodium levels but also stimulates the appetite. There's something satisfying about breaking into a sweat after finishing a whole bowl!
Shen Shaoguang returned the table tray to the kitchen and noticed A’Yuan standing by the large table bearing a bowl of soup. With a cowcumber in one hand and a sesame flat cake in the other, she ate with delicious gusto.
"What's the hurry? Take your time and enjoy it," Shen Shaoguang remarked, grabbing a high stool and pulling it over to A’Yuan.
A’Yuan waved the hand holding the sesame flat cake and replied, "I can eat more when standing."
Shen Shaoguang: "..."
Even though she hadn't felt hungry recently, watching A’Yuan devour her meal ignited Shen Shaoguang's appetite. She leaned in for a closer look. The soup contained wax gourd rounds and meatballs, flecked with green. Without soy essence to darken the color, the soup remained clear. "Meatball and Coriander Soup?"
A’Yuan nodded. "Yes, San made it for me."
Shen Shaoguang looked at the back of Yu San's head. Despite his penchant for nitpicking, he showed genuine affection toward his family.
"I'll have a bowl too!" Shen Shaoguang declared with a smile.
A’Yuan chuckled, A’Chang joined in, and even Yu San cracked a smile. She often lost her appetite during regular meals, yet suddenly craved food upon seeing others eat—what peculiar ailment was this?
Shen Shaoguang felt a bit embarrassed when she saw them all laugh at her, but maybe Yu San's Meatball and Coriander Soup, which was full of sibling affection, was particularly delicious? Then, a sense of déjà vu washed over her. After a bit of contemplation— Deputy Magistrate Lin! The first time he came to their tavern, he had commandeered the porridge and vegetables meant for A’Yuan and herself...
Shen Shaoguang mimicked his demeanor, keeping a composed expression as she filled a small bowl of soup, grabbed a flat cake, and headed to the outdoor counter to eat at a leisurely pace.
Before she could finish her meal, Deputy Magistrate Lin's chamberlain entered. "Apologizes for the inconvenience again, Miss."
Shen Shaoguang wiped her mouth, smiled, and inquired about the situation.
"Our Elder Madam is having a poor appetite today, and she hasn't eaten much for both lunch and dinner. Master mentioned that the minced fish congee he had in your tavern last time was delicious. Could you please prepare another bowl, Miss?"
Since it wasn’t a troublesome matter, Shen Shaoguang readily agreed.
Liu Chang smiled and remarked, "I heard from the people around Elder Madam that since the last time you made the delivery, Elder Madam has often mentioned you."
Shen Shaoguang raised her eyebrows. So——
Liu Chang saluted respectfully again, exposing a pleading expression. "Please, Miss."
What else could Shen Shaoguang say? "No need to be so formal, Sir. I'll prepare it right away and have it delivered," she replied with a smile.
Preparing congee was a laborious task, especially since they needed to first cook fish soup and then use the broth to make the congee. By the time it was ready, there were few customers left in the shop. With Yu San and the others staying behind to manage the store, Shen Shaoguang ventured out with a food box in hand. A’Yuan had initially wanted to accompany her, but Shen Shaoguang gestured for her to stay behind. With many people enjoying the cool evening breeze outside and Lin Residence just a few steps away, there was no cause for concern. Yu San observed her quietly as she left.
As soon as Shen Shaoguang stepped outside, the chamberlain surnamed Liu approached her and greeted her politely. "We’ve troubled you, Miss," he said, taking the food box from her. "Our Elder Madam is awaiting your arrival."
Shen Shaoguang smiled and nodded in acknowledgment.
True to his words, Elder Madam Jiang was indeed waiting for her, accompanied by Deputy Magistrate Lin.
Elder Madam Jiang said politely, "It's so late, yet I’ve inconvenienced you to make this delivery, Miss." She then instructed the maidservants by her side, "Make sure to accompany her back later."
Lin Yan reassured her with a smile, "Don't worry, grandma, I will make arrangements."
Observing this interaction, Servantwoman A’Su held back the response that was on the tip of her tongue.
Elder Madam Jiang nodded.
The servantwomen arranged the dining table and placed the delivered congee and side dishes on it. Elder Madam Jiang sampled half a bowl of congee along with the side dishes, nodded in approval, and remarked with a smile, "Very good, it's not sweet and unctuous at all."
Shen Shaoguang responded with a smile, "During the summer, the body tends to lose salt through sweat, which can lead to loss of appetite, dizziness, and fatigue. Therefore, it's beneficial to consume salty congee, beverages, or soup. However, it's important not to overdo it, as excessive salt intake can be harmful to the lungs and kidneys."
Elder Madam Jiang nodded, "Yes, indeed. I've been experiencing a loss of appetite lately and haven't felt like moving around much. Eldest child even invited the doctor, who prescribed me a few medicinal pills, but they didn't seem to have any effect."
Shen Shaoguang offered a sympathetic smile, "The summer heat can be quite draining. Elder Madam Jiang, it's important to take good care of yourself. Try to take walks in the courtyard during the cooler hours of the morning and evening, it may help you feel more comfortable."
"That's what eldest child said as well." Elder Madam Jiang laughed and instructed Lin Yan, "You get up every morning to practice swords and sweat quite a bit, so drink a bowl of salty congee or soup from now on before attending court."
Lin Yan smiled and nodded, "Yes."
Shen Shaoguang lowered her head and took a sip of tea. No wonder his arms and waist felt so tight and powerful that day... This dynasty was indeed filled with strong men capable of killing others when mounted on horseback and composing poetry after dismounting their horse.
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Food:
Meatball and Coriander Soup (芫荽肉圆汤) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3zZXE1JAo0&ab_channel=%E8%80%81%E9%A5%AD%E9%AA%A8