Huangshan Shaobing (黄山烧饼, Yellow Mountain Crispy Bun), a traditional pastry from Anhui Province, is a beloved snack known for its golden color and crab shell-like shape. Locally, it is often referred to as “Small Shaobing” or “Crab Shell Yellow Shaobing” due to its compact, round shape that resembles a crab shell. The origins of this pastry are deeply rooted in the history of the region, and its fame has grown over centuries.
Historical Origins
The story of Huangshan Shaobing dates back to 1357 during the reign of Zhu Yuanzhang, who would later become the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty. During a military campaign in the She’nan area, near the foot of Mount Huang, local bakers created this pastry as a durable and easy-to-carry ration for soldiers. After Zhu became emperor, he recognized the quality of this humble yet delicious snack and awarded it the title “Rescue Imperial Shaobing” to honor its role in supporting his military efforts. Later, during the Qianlong Emperor’s southern tour, he tasted this shaobing and was so impressed that he bestowed the name “Imperial Seal Shaobing” upon it.
Ingredients and Preparation
Ingredients: The primary ingredients used in Huangshan Shaobing include high-quality white flour, vegetable oil, tender dried vegetables (or pickled mustard greens), fatty pork, sesame seeds, and salt.
Preparation Process:
- The flour is mixed with vegetable oil to form a dough for the outer crust.
- A filling is made using the tender dried vegetables (or pickled mustard greens) and fatty pork.
- The oil dough and water dough are rolled out into multiple thin layers, creating a layered dough structure.
- The filling is placed in the center, and the dough is folded over and shaped into a round, flat disk.
- Sesame seeds are sprinkled over the top for added flavor and texture.
- The shaobing is then baked in a specially designed large oven, where it is pressed against the oven wall to cook, creating a crispy, golden exterior.
Flavor and Texture
Huangshan Shaobing is renowned for its layered, thin, and crisp skin. The freshly baked pastry has a golden hue and a fragrant aroma that immediately entices the senses. When bitten into, the shaobing offers a crispy and flaky texture, with layers of crumbs falling away. The flavor is a harmonious blend of sweetness, saltiness, and a slight spiciness from the filling, providing a delightful and satisfying experience. Whether enjoyed as a light snack with tea or a travel treat, Huangshan Shaobing brings comfort and happiness in every bite.