Siblings-in-Law
Furthermore, the dietary habits and arrangements varied among their respective households. Fang Shihua felt somewhat uneasy when she was ushered into the kitchen.
Lost in thought, Fourth Brother Zhou unexpectedly appeared and asked, "Sister-in-law, what are you cooking that smells so inviting?" He immediately knew it couldn't be his second or third sister-in-law, given the distinct aroma.
As he approached Fang Shihua, he glanced around, and his eyes quickly focused on the small pot. "What's this?" He inquired.
Little Qian Shihua swatted his hand away and replied, "It's porridge for Man Bao." By the way, what would you like for breakfast?
She seemed to understand his motive but didn't hesitate to ask directly, even though they were relative strangers.
Fourth Brother Zhou was about to suggest pancakes, which were renowned for being even better than those sold in the county town, made by his sister-in-law. Upon noticing his wife, he held back, deciding to let his new bride take center stage. Thus, he chose a simple option, "Let's just have some porridge." "We can reheat any leftovers we have."
Fang Shihua gratefully lifted her eyes to him. Smiling, he glanced around and asked, "Did you have any leftover rice from yesterday?" If so, we could turn it into congee.
Feng Shihua burst into hearty laughter before Little Qian Shihua ushered Fourth Brother Zhou out, reprimanding him for his impractical suggestions. Though reheating leftovers was a common practice, his laziness might not sit well with the elders.
Little Qian Shihua then took Fang Shihua's hand and reassured her, saying, "Ignore him." The boy deserves a scolding. How could a new bride serve only leftovers on her first day? We still have fresh vegetables and leftover tofu from yesterday, which are still soaking in water. "What do you think?"
Fueled by her affection, Fang Shihua regained her composure, recognizing her earlier blunder. Qian Shihua appreciated her practical skills as well as her generosity. She quickly regained her senses and replied, "I'll select choice cuts of meat and vegetables, cook tofu, and reheat some dishes..."
Surveying the surroundings, Fang Shihua inquired, "Where's the rice?" He decided to start by steaming some rice.
It was not advisable, considering the extravagant banquet the previous day. Given her father-in-law's frugal nature, serving plain rice for breakfast would undoubtedly upset him.
Upon observing her extravagant manner, Little Qian Shihua deduced that it was a custom among young women in the household. She gently instructed her on how to steam the leftover rice in a tiered steamer, ensuring it remained warm.
While simple, this method concealed a flaw. Little Qian Shihua demonstrated how to heat the rice, revealing its appealing texture as the steam softened it, making it appetizing. They could also use the leftovers to make congee, which is a refreshing option on a hot day.
Since the food wouldn't last long, it was best not to waste it. Adding eggs to the congee could make it especially appealing to children.
Upon seeing the new bride, Little Qian Shihua decided not to deviate from routine. Today, they aimed to make no mistakes.
As Zhou Xi gathered ingredients from the garden, Fang Shihua offered a grateful smile. Noticing her late arrival, she flushed, realizing she was the last one awake. Earlier, she had seen her younger sister-in-law in the courtyard.
With the assistance of her elder sister and three sisters-in-law, Fang Shihua prepared her first meal in the Zhou household.
The pace was slower than usual. While she cooked, Little Qian Shihua fed Man Bao, encouraging her to eat.
Upon witnessing this, Qian Shihua asked, "Did you make a lot?" Share it with the children.
Little Qian Shihua explained, "There isn't much; I intended to save some for Man Bao." "She has a small appetite and might need more food later in the day."
Qian Shihua agreed, taking into consideration Man Bao's diet. Thus, Man Bao enjoyed a bowl of porridge with fish and meat, where the bones were removed, and the pieces were minced. Despite the delicious taste, she felt unsatisfied.
After the sisters-in-law finished preparing breakfast, Man Bao joined them, holding her own bowl. Qian Shihua introduced Fang Shihua to everyone present, as she had visited several times before. But the most familiar faces were Dachou and Man Bao.
Dachou delivered monthly gifts on behalf of Fifth Brother Zhou, while Man Bao often accompanied her on outings with Fourth Brother Zhou as an excuse.
For instance, "Man Bao, take Sister Fang for a walk," or "Second Sister, entertain Man Bao."
Fang Shihua greeted everyone, and Qian Shihua gestured for them to sit down and eat. In rural areas, there was a lack of strict etiquette, so meals were communal. The Zhou family would sometimes split into two tables due to their size.
As Little Qian Shihua served the food, she noticed Man Bao's slight belly and decided to serve him half a bowl of porridge instead of rice. The child's desire for the remaining dishes was evident as she drooled over them. Even without Qian Shihua's intervention, Little Qian Shihua gently nudged her to try the fresh tofu, saying, "Go for the fresh ones."
Man Bao pouted but acquiesced. Fang Shihua observed curiously. Fourth Brother Zhou explained, "Man Bao has a delicate constitution, and her stomach is weak." She shouldn't consume any food that has been left overnight.
Although Fourth Brother Zhou didn't notice any problems, Man Bao's recent improvement was evident. Her once frail body had gained weight, and her frequent illnesses had reduced to occasional coughs. He almost forgot how troublesome she used to be as a child.
Man Bao's health had significantly improved in his view. Although these were leftovers, they still contained meat and fat, which could aid in her growth. Little Qian Shihua's special treatment confirmed this belief.
With Fourth Brother Zhou's wedding, man. After breakfast, she dashed out, only to realize too late that Bai Shanbao was at school and unlikely to accompany her.