The bones have been blanched once; now they are simmering, but the aroma isn't as rich as other people's.
Yi Meng isn't in a hurry.
She scoops out the de-blooded meat, dries the remaining water in the pot, and adds a small spoonful of lard.
As the lard melts, a distinct fragrance of oil fills the air.
However, each household is minding its own simmering meat, and the Qi Family is located downwind, so the aroma isn't quite noticeable.
Once the lard has melted, she adds the blanched meat and begins to stir-fry.
The blanched meat appears cooked on the surface, but as it fries, some fat still releases oil.
Without wasting much time, Yi Meng watches the fats start to release and throws in some Cornelian Cherry.
Cornelian Cherry has a spicy flavor, and considering there are kids around, Yi Meng adds just a bit for flavor.
After another bout of stir-frying, the unique aroma of Cornelian Cherry wafts out, though very faint, undetectable unless close by.
