Suzhou Pan-fried Red Bean Cake (Jiunianghong Dou Bing)
Treat yourself to something sweet with these delightful Pan-fried Red Bean Cakes. The crispy exterior gives way to a gooey, sweet red bean filling that’s bound to win over your taste buds. Whether you're enjoying them as an afternoon snack or a quick dessert, they're a perfect embodiment of Suzhou's sweeter culinary offerings. Enjoy the simple joy of biting into these warm, fluffy treats at a local bakery or street vendor!
Top 5 for Suzhou
Who Should Try This Dish?
Those who enjoy sweet and comforting snacks will find Pan-fried Red Bean Cakes particularly appealing. It's a perfect treat for anyone with a sweet tooth, as well as travelers looking to experience authentic local flavors.
Flavor Profile
Pan-fried Red Bean Cakes are primarily sweet, with a rich, sugary flavor from the red beans. The exterior is crispy and slightly greasy, creating a delightful textural contrast with the soft, gooey filling. This combination provides a warm, satisfying experience that many find irresistible.
Things to Eat with It
Pan-fried Red Bean Cakes pair well with hot green tea, as the tea's slight bitterness complements the sweetness of the cakes. Additionally, serving these treats with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture, enhancing the overall experience.
What's in It?
- Red Beans: The main filling, sweetened and mashed to create a gooey texture.
- Flour: Forms the outer layer, giving the cakes their structure.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness to the red bean paste.
- Water: Binds the flour to make the dough.
- Oil: Used for frying, giving the cakes a crispy exterior.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
These ingredients combine to create a delightful sweet treat, with red beans being particularly significant in Chinese desserts.
How It's Made
The preparation of Pan-fried Red Bean Cakes begins with soaking and cooking the red beans until they are soft. After mashing them and mixing them with sugar, a dough is made with flour, water, and a pinch of salt. The dough is divided, filled with the sweet red bean mixture, and shaped into flat cakes. These cakes are then fried in oil until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Local Traditions or Rituals Around the Dish
In modern-day Suzhou, Pan-fried Red Bean Cakes are enjoyed both as a casual snack and a popular dessert option. They can be found in street markets, bakeries, and even at food stalls during local festivals. These cakes symbolize comfort and nostalgia for many locals, often enjoyed during family gatherings or festive occasions. The simple act of sharing these cakes brings friends and families together, showcasing the communal aspect of food in Chinese culture.