Yunnan Chickpea Jelly (云南鸡豆凉粉), also known as the “Black Treasure of Lijiang,” is a unique cold jelly snack native to the Lijiang region. Made from chickpeas, a legume suited to high-altitude climates, this dish has been a local favorite for centuries, enjoyed in both hot and cold seasons.
Main Ingredients and Preparation Process
Main Ingredients: The primary ingredient for Yunnan Chickpea Jelly is chickpeas (also known as “bean peas” or “soldier peas”), which are named for their resemblance to a chicken’s eye. These chickpeas are grown, harvested, sun-dried, peeled, and ground into a paste, forming the essential component of this jelly.
Preparation Process:
- Soaking: The chickpeas are soaked in water overnight to soften them.
- Grinding: The soaked chickpeas are ground with water, and the resulting mixture is strained to obtain a smooth chickpea paste.
- Cooking: The filtered chickpea paste is heated until cooked. The color changes from light yellow to black, indicating that it is fully cooked.
- Setting: The cooked chickpea paste is poured into molds and left to cool and solidify, forming the jelly. Controlling the temperature and time during this process is crucial for achieving the desired texture and quality.
Texture and Flavor
Yunnan Chickpea Jelly is characterized by its black color, hence the name “Black Jelly.” It has a delicate, smooth, and slightly elastic texture with a distinctive chickpea aroma. In Lijiang, street vendors commonly sell this snack, often enhancing the flavor with a variety of condiments, such as red chili peppers, green chives, Sichuan peppercorns, scallions, mustard, and vinegar. Whether enjoyed cold or warm, it offers a delicious and memorable taste experience.
Nutritional Value
Yunnan Chickpea Jelly is not only tasty but also nutritious:
- Rich in Nutrients: Chickpeas are high in protein, fat, carbohydrates, calcium, iron, and contain 18 essential amino acids and various vitamins.
- Health Benefits: Regular consumption of chickpea jelly may help lower blood sugar levels, regulate body temperature, and relieve blockages. It is also rich in dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps prevent constipation.
Yunnan Chickpea Jelly offers a delightful blend of taste and health benefits, making it a must-try dish for visitors to the region.