Dong Zhi, also known as Winter Solstice Festival is the second most important festival in the Chinese calendar, after Chinese New Year. It has been a tradition where family members will get together on this day for reunion dinner. One important thing not to be missed is Tong Yuen or glutinuous rice balls. Tong Yuen signifies unity and harmony within the family. I had it on every year's Dong Zhi and for this year, there is no exceptional either.

multicoloured tang yuen handmade by my wife, mum and I

using gula melaka, pandan leaves and ginger for its syrup

Mmmm......Simply marvellous!! I had two large bowl of it.....hehe. This year, Almond had his share of Tong Yuen too for the first time (haha, dog's version of Tong Yuen). He just love it!! It was finished within seconds.

the tong yuen are smaller in size to compare with the normal ones

tong yuen mix with chicken broth

Dong Zhi Festival also reminds people that Chinese New Year is coming soon. Even before the lunar new year arrives, Chinese believe that one is another year older after enjoying the glutinous rice balls on Dong Zhi. Yup.......a year older!! Wish you never had them earlier huh?......LOL