Refreshing respite

Chilled Organic Momotaro Tomatoes, Winter Melon with White Fungus and Mushroom, and Fresh Water Bamboo with Sesame—these are just a handful of light, cool dishes executive chef Xiao Liangrong is doling out at Putien to beat the sweltering heat.

A native of Putian, a Fujian town in China, Xiao has chosen to showcase his hometown's seasonal ingredients such as aromatic green-skinned lychees, succulent bamboo clams, and delicate winter melon. "In the summer, Putian’s fields are filled with melons and gourds that stretch for miles and miles. The air is ripe with the scent of fruit—much of those growing in our own backyards. This special menu aims to replicate the feeling of dining with family and close friends in the countryside," he says.

The dishes—chilled, braised and parboiled for a feel of traditional home cooking—are given a deft touch. The crunch and cool of chilled fresh water bamboo, drizzled with Putien's sesame dressing makes for a tasty, tangy starter. Steeped in fragrant hua diao jiu, slippery sea snails are a fitting companion to braised Yunan white fungus and mushrooms which are tucked into translucent winter melon and steamed.

Also of note are Braised Luffa with Homemade Beancurd, Stir-fried Lotus Root with Prawns as well as chilled Organic Momotaro Tomatoes, sided with a sprinkling of fine sugar for a burst of sweet flavours. Finally, wash down the spread with the Summer Quencher, an invigorating combination of aloe vera, cherry tomato and plum.

Available till 31 August at all Putien outlets. Prices from $4.90. 127 Kitchener Road.