Lijiang Baba (丽江粑粑), a traditional flatbread from Yunnan, boasts a history that dates back to the Tang Dynasty and is deeply rooted in local culture. According to legend, the Naxi people of Lijiang began making this flatbread to commemorate a hero named Baba. Over time, Lijiang Baba evolved into a distinctive local delicacy that has been passed down through generations. The renowned Ming Dynasty traveler Xu Xiake also mentioned Lijiang Baba in his travelogue, referring to it as “crispy oil threads” or “oil-crisp flatbread,” underscoring its long history and widespread influence.
Main Ingredients and Preparation Process
The key ingredients for Lijiang Baba include fine wheat flour from Lijiang, spring water from the Yulong Snow Mountain, and various seasonings such as ham, sugar, sesame seeds, and walnut kernels. The preparation process is unique and involves the following steps:
- Mixing the Dough: Combine the fine wheat flour with spring water to form a dough. Knead the dough thoroughly until it becomes soft and elastic.
- Rolling Out: On a marble slab greased with vegetable oil, roll the dough into thin sheets.
- Adding Ingredients: Spread melted fat (pork lard or vegetable oil) over the dough sheets and sprinkle with seasonings such as ham or sugar.
- Shaping: Roll the thin sheets into cylindrical shapes, pinch the ends together, and flatten them. You can also fill the center with sesame seeds or walnut kernels.
- Cooking: Cook the rolled flatbreads in a flat pan over low heat until golden brown. Alternatively, they can be fried or steamed.
Varieties and Taste
Lijiang Baba comes in various flavors, primarily categorized into savory and sweet types:
- Savory Baba: Includes varieties such as ham Baba and pepper-salt Baba. These are known for their crispy texture and savory filling.
- Sweet Baba: Includes varieties such as red bean paste Baba and oil cake Baba. These are aromatic, sweet, and have a crispy exterior with a tender interior.
Regardless of the flavor, Lijiang Baba is celebrated for its exceptional color, aroma, and taste, making it a beloved treat among locals and visitors alike.