Return of the Patriotic Poet

Today, 2nd June is the 5th day of the 5th month of the Chinese lunar calendar (or The Double Five, as they call it) and it is today that Penangites remember the gallant hero of old times, the Patriotic Poet.  Everyone knows the legend and how he ended his life by throwing himself into a river when corruption overtook his country. Dragon boat racing and eating glutinous rice dumplings have become synonymous with this festival and many households here still carry on the tradition of offering rice dumplings to the deities. 

I got my dumplings as usual from a nearby vegetarian shop.  They were doing a brisk sale and there was plenty for all. I also bought some "kee chang" (sweet rice dumplings) which are usually taken with Gula Melaka syrup. This year's dumplings cost RM2.50 for an average size "Pua Kiam Tee" (half savoury, half sweet) dumpling.  Those made from brown rice cost something like a ringgit more.

Unfortunately, Phor Tay Temple, from whom we used to buy the dumplings, no longer makes them due to lack of manpower; most of its helpers (mainly devotees) are senior citizens and can no longer take on the intricate task! They used to make one of the best dumplings in town!  A friend told me that one outlet was selling giant rice dumplings (non-vegetarian) costing RM20.00 each!  They claim their dumplings have extra rich fillings, hence the hike in price!  I would have liked to see one of those!

Our dumpling offering to Kuan Yin

On this auspicious occasion, it is believed that washing one's face at noon with water from the tap (known as "Goh See" water) brings good luck and good health.  There are those who go one step further by storing some of this water for future use, such as for cooking.

For fun, you can try and see if you can make an egg stand up at midday.  This is the only time of the year when you can do this trick, due to some gravitational force, so I'm told.  My maid tried it but was not successful!  Maybe the force was not with us!

   Enjoy your dumplings!



Wrapped so delicately in bamboo leaves,
A delicious fragrance exuding from within,
Oh what heavenly food for the gods
And for the soul!

(Poem by a dumpling lover)

Picture (left) shows a brown rice dumpling.  It wasn't too bad but could have done with more filling inside!






Below: 
Flashback: Devotees at Phor Tay Temple tying rice dumplings.