According to the traditional Chinese medicine theory, the concept of five elements representing five colours is related to human health. The five elements – Gold (white), Wood (green), Water (black), Fire (red) and Earth (yellow) – also correspond to the five internal organs: lungs, liver, kidneys, heart and spleen. From 4 January to 31 March 2021, Cafe’s culinary team is introducing the Five Elements of Health Themed Buffet, featuring recipes from each element to nourish the mind, body and spirit.
Gold – Lungs – White
“You are what you eat” – a Chinese saying meaning the food you eat acts as a supplement to the corresponding part of your body.
Sip on the white and milky Almond and dried vegetable pig lung soup, a classic Cantonese delicacy which is believed to fortify and moisten the respiratory system. It is a recipe which showcases the culinary team’s hard work and craftsmanship, as the pig lungs have to be meticulously hand-washed which can take two hours. Another dish not to be missed is Chinese yam with osmanthus, which tastes fresh and sweet. Chinese yam is white in colour and belongs to the gold element. It is mild in nature and can replenish the lungs, spleen and kidneys.
Wood – Liver – Green
The wood element represents spring and its power resides in the liver, which harmonises emotions and detoxifies blood. Food such as leafy green vegetables, berries and black fungus are associated with the wood element.
Steamed egg with black fungus, white fungus and ginseng is a warm and alimentary treat topped with goji berries. It nourishes the liver, lungs, eyesight and boosts immunity defence. Other dishes include Stir-fried scallops and broccoli and Spinach salad with sesame sauce.
Water – Kidneys – Black
The water element rules the kidneys, bladder and nerves and recommended foods include dark or salty foods such as seaweed, seafood and root vegetables.
Braised conpoy and sea cucumber with mushrooms is a traditional Cantonese delicacy. Sea cucumber has a warming characteristic and is regarded to be especially beneficial for the kidneys. It has a delicate texture and a rich umami flavour. Other highlights include Inari sushi with seaweed and sesame from the Japanese station.
Earth – Spleen – Yellow
Both the spleen and stomach are attributed to the earth element, which governs the transportation and absorption of the body. Beef, pumpkin, potatoes, yellow lentils, corn, pineapple, yellow peppers and a diet that follows a yellow rule can replenish the spleen’s stamina.
The warm and hearty Steamed pork spare ribs with pumpkin and red dates is a homey dish. The sweet-tasting pumpkin flesh and pork ribs make an appealing combination that stimulates the appetite. Stewed beef brisket with mushrooms and potatoes is super tender and flavourful in a rich savoury broth. It can invigorate the digestive system.
Fire – Heart – Red
The heart is the primary organ in the fire element. It is in charge of circulation and hence metabolism as well as detoxification. Red foods such as strawberries, beetroot, goji berries and “heating fruits” such as longan, durian, lychee and ginger are related to the fire element, which gives life and warmth to the heart and body.
The silky and gooey Steamed ginger and pumpkin custard with dried longan is a wonderfully comforting dessert with an aromatic ginger flavour. Durian pancake is a pillowy green crepe filled with whipped cream and durian flesh, which is high in antioxidants.
Remarks:
– Prices are subject to a 10% service charge.
– Some dishes are available for dinner buffet session only.
– Promotion is subject to change and government mandated restrictions on dine-in services.