Xu Collection, Lower Volume Radical: Food (shí) Kangxi Strokes: 18 Page 1422, Entry 27 Pronounced hu. Book of Rites (Erya), Explanation of Words: Hu means zhan (thick gruel). Note: It is a rice porridge. Commentary: Hu and zhan are types of boiled congee. The thick version is called mi (porridge), the thin version is called yu (congee), and hu and zhan are their alternative names. Commentary of Zuo (Zuo zhuan), Seventh Year of Duke Zhao: Used for zhan, used for yu, in order to sustain (hu) my life. Also, Jade Chapters (Yupian): To depend on others for food. Commentary of Zuo (Zuo zhuan), Eleventh Year of Duke Yin: To sustain (hu) one's life in the four directions. Note: Hu means to sell or provide food.