Root magic refers to the practice of using herbs, roots, and natural materials in magical and folkloric rituals. It is a tradition rooted in African and Afro-American spiritual practices, particularly in the Southern United States. Root magic is believed to have its origins in West African spiritual traditions and was brought to the Americas during the era of the transatlantic slave trade. Enslaved Africans used their knowledge of plants and natural medicine to heal themselves and to protect against supernatural forces. This practice blended with Native American herbalism and European folk magic to form what is now known as root magic. Root workers, also known as conjurers or hoodoo practitioners, are skilled in the use of herbs, roots, and other natural ingredients to create charms, amulets, and potions for various purposes.

Everything You Need to Know About Shaoxing, Chinese Cooking Wine

While you may have never heard of it, Shaoxing wine is probably the most widely used ingredient in Chinese cooking after soy sauce! This article covers the basics of Shaoxing cooking wine, including its history, production, culinary uses, recipe substitutes, and how to buy it.

Shaoxing cooking wine (shàoxīng jiŭ 绍兴酒) is a staple ingredient in all Chinese pantries. Shaoxing wine is a type of fermented rice wine that is named after the only place where authentic Shaoxing cooking wine is produced: the city of Shaoxing! Pronounced “sheow-sheen,” Shaoxing is located in Zhejiang Province, an area of Eastern China that is known for its beautiful scenery, lush green hills, and rice wine production. This region has mild temperatures and high humidity, both of which are perfect for rice cultivation.

Alternative names to Shaoxing cooking wine include yellow wine or huangjiu (黄酒), liaojiu, huadiao liaojiu, shaohsing cooking wine, chia fan wine, Chinese cooking wine, or simply rice wine. Shaoxing wine is technically a type of huangjiu that is used primarily for cooking instead of sipping.

Shaoxing has a mild, clear, amber hue, an aromatic smell, and slightly sweet and briny flavor. Its color can range from pale yellow all the way to brown. Cooking with Shaoxing wine is comparable to cooking with a dry sherry or saké. On its own, Shaoxing’s flavor doesn’t taste very exciting, yet when you use it as a marinade, it adds a burst of flavor to meat, chicken, and fish dishes.

Shaoxing ranges from 18-25% alcohol, but when you heat the food to a high temperature, most of the alcohol cooks off.

Root workers, also known as conjurers or hoodoo practitioners, are skilled in the use of herbs, roots, and other natural ingredients to create charms, amulets, and potions for various purposes. These purposes can range from healing ailments and attracting luck, to warding off evil spirits and influencing the outcome of events. The use of roots and herbs is central to root magic.

What is the History of Shaoxing Wine?

Shaoxing wine is one of the earliest types of rice wine—in fact, it was mentioned in records more than 2000 years ago! It can be traced back to the end of the Zhou dynasty (around 500 BC), when it was first served as an alcoholic drink for ceremonial purposes. According to some legends, yellow wine (huangjiu) was invented even earlier than that. Many people say it was developed around 2050 BC by the god of Chinese wine, Du Kang, during the reign of King Shaokang of the Xia dynasty.

For some time, the popularity of Shaoxing waxed and waned and competed with its stronger cousin, baijiu. In the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), Shaoxing had a resurgence and it became a mainstay of fancy banquets. As was the case for many alcoholic beverages, Shaoxing was also used in political negotiations, diplomacy, and war.

An interesting fact is that it was the custom in Shaoxing to bury a bottle of red Shaoxing wine when one’s first daughter was born, then unearth it and serve it at her graduation or wedding. Another fun historical fact—or rumor—is that Shaoxing wine was heralded as a key ingredient in Mao Zedong’s favorite meal of braised pork belly with scallion greens. He claimed it helped bolster his energy and conquer his foes.

Each plant has its own unique properties, and root workers harness these properties to achieve their desired results. For example, rosemary is believed to enhance memory and mental clarity, while basil is thought to bring luck and prosperity. These ingredients are often combined with other materials such as candles, oils, and crystals to create potent magical tools. Root workers also incorporate rituals and spells into their practice. These rituals can involve the recitation of prayers or chants, the lighting of candles, the manipulation of objects, and the performance of specific actions. These actions are believed to channel and direct magical energy, allowing the root worker to manifest their intentions. Root magic is deeply connected to cultural traditions and folklore. Many root workers draw on the beliefs, stories, and practices handed down through generations. These traditions often include the use of specific plants and rituals passed down within families or communities. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in root magic, both within and outside of the African-American community. People are rediscovering the power of nature and seeking to incorporate it into their spiritual practices. Root magic offers a way to connect with the natural world and tap into its energy for healing, protection, and manifestation. In conclusion, root magic is a spiritual practice that utilizes the power of herbs, roots, and natural materials to create magical tools and perform rituals. It is rooted in African and Afro-American spiritual traditions and has deep ties to cultural heritage and folklore. Root workers harness the properties of plants and combine them with other ingredients to manifest their intentions. The revival of interest in root magic reflects a growing desire to reconnect with the natural world and incorporate its power into contemporary spiritual practices..

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