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Get to know your pantry.

Look at ingredients before looking for a formula.

Begin with an inventory.

Notice the grains and beans already in your kitchen. Write down their names and check labels, storage instructions and use-by dates. This is a practical starting point for planning a meal.

A name carries a story.

Different Chinese regions prepare familiar ingredients in different ways. Learn how an ingredient is used in a dish before assigning a meaning or benefit to it.

Choose one question.

How is it usually prepared? What does it taste like? Which recipe explains it clearly? Use those questions to build knowledge gradually.