Longevity peach

Longevity peach (also known as Shou Tao) is a type of steamed bun that is popular in Chinese cuisine. It is often used in celebrations, particularly those related to longevity and immortality, hence its name. The bun is shaped and colored to resemble a peach, which is a symbol of longevity in Chinese culture.

History

The longevity peach has its roots in ancient China, where it was traditionally offered to the gods and ancestors as a symbol of long life. The tradition of making and eating longevity peaches is believed to have originated during the Tang Dynasty, and has continued to the present day.

Symbolism

In Chinese culture, the peach is a symbol of immortality and longevity. This is due to the legend of the Queen Mother of the West, who was said to have a garden of peach trees that bore fruit only once every three thousand years. Eating this fruit was believed to grant immortality. The longevity peach bun, with its peach-like shape and color, is thus a symbol of long life and good health.

Preparation and Use

Longevity peaches are made from wheat flour, yeast, sugar, and water, which are combined to form a dough. The dough is then shaped into a peach-like form, often complete with a crease along the side to mimic the appearance of a real peach. The buns are then steamed until they are cooked through.

Longevity peaches are often used in celebrations, particularly those related to birthdays and longevity. They are often presented in a basket or on a tray, and are sometimes accompanied by other symbolic foods, such as noodles (which represent long life) and dumplings (which represent wealth and prosperity).

See Also

• Chinese cuisine
• Steamed bun
• Queen Mother of the West
• Tang Dynasty