Chinese desserts

Chinese Desserts are a significant part of Chinese cuisine, with a long history and rich variety. They are often sweet, but not always, and can be served either hot or cold. Chinese desserts are typically less sweet than Western desserts and often incorporate ingredients not commonly found in Western recipes, such as red beans, lotus seeds, and sesame.

History

The history of Chinese desserts can be traced back to the Neolithic Age, when simple desserts were made from honey and fruits. The art of dessert making evolved significantly during the Tang Dynasty, when trade with foreign countries introduced new ingredients and techniques. The Ming Dynasty and Qing Dynasty saw further development, with the creation of many desserts that are still popular today.

Types of Chinese Desserts

Chinese desserts can be broadly categorized into pastries, sweet soups, and snacks.

Pastries

Chinese pastries, such as Mooncakes and Egg tarts, are often made with a sweet filling and a flaky or crumbly crust. They are typically served during festivals or special occasions.

Sweet Soups

Sweet soups, or tang shui, are a popular type of Chinese dessert. They are often made with ingredients like red beans, lotus seeds, and glutinous rice, and can be served either hot or cold.

Snacks

Chinese dessert snacks include items like Tanghulu, a candied fruit skewer, and Bingtanghulu, a type of candied hawthorn stick.

Regional Variations

There are significant regional variations in Chinese desserts. For example, Cantonese desserts are often sweet and chilled, while Sichuan desserts are known for their spicy and bold flavors.

Cultural Significance

Chinese desserts are not just a part of the culinary culture, but also hold significant cultural and symbolic meanings. Many desserts are associated with festivals and celebrations, such as the Mooncake for the Mid-Autumn Festival and Nian gao for Chinese New Year.

See Also

• Chinese cuisine
• List of Chinese desserts
• Chinese festivals