In the world of culinary delights, there is a similar couple, dumplings from the North and jiaozai from the South. Today, we are gonna explore the flavor-packed treats from the South, Gaoming Jiaozai from Foshan!

A Little Jiaozai with a Long History

In the fertile lands of Gaoming, jiaozai is more than just a delicious treat; it embodies rich folk culture and the people's yearning for a prosperous life.

Resembling both a crescent moon and a gold ingot, jiaozai symbolizes "a house full of treasures, and abundant wealth coming afterwards," reflecting the local people's hopes for a prosperous future.

The tradition of eating jiaozai during the second lunar month dates back over 500 years. Originating in Genghe Town, Gaoming District, this custom has remained popular through the centuries. From the first day of the second lunar month to the spring equinox, friends and family gather to make jiaozai, savoring the happiness brought by this traditional delicacy and the festive atmosphere of "eating jiaozai."

Jiaozai: A Treasure Trove of Flavors and Fullness

Each jiaozai is like a small treasure, filled with a variety of rich fillings, including pumpkin and glutinous rice, fish and sticky rice, and sweet potato and peanut. These fillings provide a delightful array of textures and flavors.

Each jiaozai is like a small treasure, filled with a variety of rich fillings, including pumpkin and glutinous rice, fish and sticky rice, and sweet potato and peanut. These fillings provide a delightful array of textures and flavors.

Beyond their deliciousness, jiaozai also offers health benefits, focusing on balanced ingredients and taste. For instance, pumpkin in the pumpkin and glutinous rice jiaozai is rich in beta-carotene, which helps protect vision and boost immunity. Sweet potatoes in the sweet potato and peanut jiaozai are high in dietary fiber, promoting gut health.

Innovative Fillings: Adding Kudzu Root to the Mix

In Gaoming, the tradition of making jiaozai is undergoing an innovative transformation. A local shop has incorporated kudzu root powder into the jiaozai-making process, breaking away from traditional methods.

This new approach not only simplifies the previously cumbersome process of preparing the dough but also enhances the texture of the jiaozai, making them more chewy and elastic. The addition of kudzu root powder retains the traditional flavor while adding a healthful twist.

These innovative jiaozai, blending time-honored traditions with new health benefits, continue to bring joy and wellness to all who enjoy them.

Reporter | Eddie

Revisor | Zoey, Lynn

Photo | Foshan News and Media Center, Gaoming Release, Hecheng Release, Gao Zeming, Hong Hai

*If the picture infringes any rights, please contact us for deletion.