Yunnan Da Jiu Jia (云南大救驾), also known as Tengchong Fried Rice Cake (腾冲炒饵块), is a traditional delicacy from Tengchong City in Yunnan Province. It is one of the top ten classic dishes of Yunnan and is steeped in historical legend. According to historical records, after the fall of the Ming Dynasty, General Li Ding and Liu Wenxiu, along with the Last Ming Emperor Zhu Youlang, fled to Kunming in 1656. Two years later, with Qing troops advancing, the emperor and his generals retreated west to Tengchong. There, they were on the brink of starvation when local people offered them fried rice cakes, which were greatly praised by the emperor and thus named “Da Jiu Jia,” meaning “Great Rescue Dish.”
Main Ingredients and Preparation
Main Ingredients:
- Rice Cake (Er Kuai): Made primarily from glutinous rice, these rice cakes are white, smooth, and chewy. They are cut into thin slices or triangular pieces, which are ideal for stir-frying.
- Additional Ingredients: Fresh eggs, pickled chili peppers, tomatoes, Chinese cabbage hearts, and green onions. The eggs add nutrition and texture, while the pickled chili peppers provide a unique spicy flavor. Tomatoes and cabbage hearts add color and freshness.
Preparation Process:
- Prepare Ingredients: Cut the rice cakes into thin slices or triangles. Beat the eggs, and wash and chop the tomatoes, cabbage hearts, and green onions.
- Stir-Fry: Heat oil in a pan, scramble the beaten eggs, then add the sliced rice cakes and stir-fry until they are slightly golden. Add the pickled chili peppers, tomato pieces, and cabbage hearts, and continue to stir-fry.
- Seasoning: Once the ingredients are cooked through, season with salt to taste, and stir well before serving.
Flavor and Characteristics
Da Jiu Jia is known for its crispy texture, vibrant colors, and moderate spiciness. The dish features a delightful mix of red, yellow, white, and green, resembling a vivid watercolor painting. The crispy rice cakes combine with the fresh and aromatic ingredients, creating a flavorful and satisfying experience. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it a memorable culinary delight.