Page:The Chinese cook book.djvu/24

2 fire. Charcoal was the primitive form of fuel used in some countries, especially in those having a mild climate.

This difference between the stoves of long ago and now has helped to improve our cooking.

The Chinese method of cooking was invented by the Emperor of Pow Hay Se in the year 3000 Confucius, the great philosopher, taught how to eat scientifically. The proportion of meat should not be more than that of vegetable. There ought to be a little ginger in one's food. Confucius would not eat anything which was not chopped up properly. To-day, unconsciously, the Chinese people are obeying this same law.

It is this scientific custom which makes Chinese food particularly nourishing and beneficial. In ancient days the Chinese used knives and forks. Later, they found that sometimes these impaired the delicious flavor of the food; hence their use of chop-sticks and spoons.

China has always been noted for its cooking. Many Americans prefer Chinese cooking. In fact, many Americans have Chinese cooks in their kitchens. After having tasted Chinese