Lǘ Dǎ Gǔn (Glutinous Rice Rolls Stuffed with Red Bean Paste)

Brief Introduction

Lǘ Dǎ Gǔn, literally meaning "Donkey Rolls," is a traditional Chinese dessert with a long history. It is renowned for its soft texture, sweet taste, and unique appearance. Made primarily from glutinous rice flour, red bean paste, and a thin layer of soybean flour, this dessert is a delight to both the eyes and the palate.

Cuisine

Chinese Cuisine, specifically belonging to the Beijing Cuisine tradition, though variations exist in other regions.

Taste

Lǘ Dǎ Gǔn boasts a sweet and slightly sticky flavor, with the rich and creamy taste of red bean paste complementing the chewy glutinous rice exterior. The subtlety of soybean flour adds a nutty aroma and a gentle crunch.

Characteristics

Distinctive Shape: Rolled into a cylindrical shape, giving it a unique appearance that resembles a donkey rolling on the ground.
Multilayered Texture: Combining the softness of glutinous rice, the sweetness of red bean paste, and the slight crispiness of soybean flour.
Colorful Appearance: Often dyed with natural food coloring, such as green or pink, to enhance its visual appeal.

Ingredients

Glutinous Rice Flour: Forms the base of the dessert, providing its chewy texture.
Red Bean Paste: Made from sweetened and mashed red beans, it serves as the filling.
Soybean Flour: Lightly coated on the outside to prevent sticking and add a nutty flavor.
Water: Used in the preparation of the glutinous rice dough.
Sugar (optional): To adjust sweetness, though red bean paste is already sweet.

Authentic Location

To taste authentic Lǘ Dǎ Gǔn, one should visit Beijing, China. Here, street vendors and traditional restaurants offer this dessert in its purest and most authentic form.