Hui Dou Zi (灰豆子), a traditional sweet snack with a history of over 300 years, is a unique dessert that originates from the Lanzhou region of Gansu Province, China. The name “Hui Dou Zi” translates to “gray beans,” where “hui” refers to peng hui, an ash produced by burning peng grass that grows in the Gobi Desert. This ash is akin to a plant-derived edible alkali. When combined with ingredients like peas, red dates, and sugar, peng hui undergoes a lengthy cooking process to create this distinctive delicacy.
Preparation Process
Main Ingredients: The primary ingredients for Hui Dou Zi include ma wan dou (a type of green pea), although variations may use da yun dou (large fava beans), ying zui dou (chickpeas), and other durable legumes. Additional ingredients include red dates, edible alkali (or peng hui), and rock or granulated sugar.
Steps for Preparation:
- Soaking the Peas: Begin by washing the peas thoroughly to remove impurities. Soak them in water for several hours – typically 3 to 4 hours, though some recipes recommend overnight soaking.
- Roasting the Peas: Once soaked, drain the peas and transfer them to a pot. Stir-fry them until they release a pleasant aroma, enhancing their flavor.
- Adding Alkali: Introduce a suitable amount of edible alkali (or peng hui). A general guideline is to use about 5 grams of alkali for every 500 grams of peas, which helps achieve a softer texture during cooking.
- Incorporating Red Dates and Sugar: Add red dates and rock or granulated sugar to the pot, then pour in enough water to submerge the peas.
- Cooking Process: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. As the water evaporates, add boiling water to continue cooking until the peas become soft and mushy.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Once cooked, adjust the sweetness according to personal preference, and the dish is ready to be served.
Flavor Profile
Texture and Taste: Hui Dou Zi is characterized by its soft, creamy texture and rich flavor. The combination of peas, red dates, and sugar melds together, producing a delightful harmony of flavors that showcases both the earthy essence of the beans and a subtle hint of alkali, making it a memorable treat.
Color and Appearance: The addition of peng hui (or edible alkali) gives Hui Dou Zi its distinctive light gray hue during cooking, which is also the reason behind its name.
Serving Suggestions
Versatile Enjoyment: Hui Dou Zi can be enjoyed both hot and cold, making it a versatile dish suitable for all seasons. In winter, it serves as a warming comfort food, while in summer, it provides a refreshing treat to beat the heat.
Consumption Ideas: This delightful dessert can be eaten directly or served as a sweet dish for breakfast or afternoon tea. In some beverage shops in Lanzhou, you can even find a unique twist on Hui Dou Zi in the form of milk tea, where the sweetness of the beans beautifully complements the rich creaminess of the tea.
