Tian Pei Zi (甜醅子), also known as sweet fermented paste, boasts a rich and legendary history that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. This traditional food has been passed down through generations, evolving in its production methods while maintaining its fundamental principles. As one of the iconic dishes in Gansu, Tian Pei Zi carries the local culinary culture and historical memories of the people, serving as a bond connecting individuals through shared tastes and experiences.
Preparation Process
Key Ingredients: The primary ingredients for Tian Pei Zi include oat (known as yóu mài or 玉麦), barley, and wheat, with oat being one of the most commonly used grains. Oat is rich in protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals, providing significant nutritional value to Tian Pei Zi.
Preparation Steps:
- Ingredient Preparation: Choose plump, impurity-free oats, barley, or wheat as the base ingredients, then wash and soak them thoroughly.
- Steaming: Place the soaked ingredients in a steamer and steam over high heat until they are about 80% cooked, then remove and let them cool.
- Mixing and Fermentation: Once the ingredients have cooled, add an appropriate amount of sweet wine yeast (or regular yeast) and mix well. Transfer the mixture to a clean ceramic jar or bowl and place it in a warm location to ferment. During fermentation, the sugars in the ingredients are converted into alcohol and carbon dioxide by the microorganisms in the yeast, resulting in a distinctive sweet aroma and alcoholic fragrance.
- Final Product: After a fermentation period of about two to three days, Tian Pei Zi is ready to be enjoyed. At this stage, it boasts a balanced sweet and sour taste, accompanied by a strong wine aroma and the scent of malt.
Texture and Flavor Profile
Tian Pei Zi has a well-balanced sweet and sour taste, with a rich wine aroma and a delightful malt fragrance. It has a unique flavor profile, enhanced by the luscious wine-like liquid that accompanies it, making it delicious and refreshing. Ideal for summer, it serves as a delightful drink to cool off, but it can also be enjoyed as a dessert or snack. Pairing it with other ingredients can create exciting culinary combinations, making Tian Pei Zi a versatile choice for various occasions.
