However, this is not how the Chinese would have their meal. I came across an interesting article on the Chinese food culture. Here is what it says.
Contrary to popular belief, the Chinese don't normally drink tea during a meal. Tea is enjoyed afterward in a relaxing atmosphere. Besides encouraging conversation, it helps promote digestion.
Just as we like to relax with a cup of coffee after a good meal.
Water or soft drinks aren't served, as the Chinese believe it is unhealthy to serve cold drinks with a meal. A thin soup makes an appetizing substitute.
Huh! And we thought that drinks always accompany any type of meal.
Serve a thick soup for lunch or dinner. Normally you wouldn't serve a thick soup at a meal that has several other dishes.
And guess what, the hot and sour soup classifies into thick soups. So a hot and sour soup is not supposed to be followed by a series of dishes for the main course.
During a banquet, serve a thin soup between courses. Similar to a sorbet, thin soups can cleanse the palate and prepare it for the next course.
Hmm! Isn't that interesting? I think I am going to try and follow this during my next trip to a Chinese restaurant. I must have the hot and sour soup though. I love it! I'll remember to go by the rest of the rules about drinks and main course accordingly.
