Exclusive Food in Tonglu, Hangzhou

01. Qingming Kuih (Green Rice Cake)

Qingming Kuih is a unique delicacy of Tonglu in spring. It is primarily made from fresh mugwort and filled with a combination of pickled vegetables, tofu skin, shredded bamboo shoots, and shredded radish. The refreshing fragrance of mugwort blends with the rich filling, and the soft, colorful exterior offers an extraordinary taste experience. Each bite is filled with the freshness of mugwort and richness of glutinous rice, capturing the essence of spring in every mouthful.

02. Spring Bamboo Shoots

In addition to Qingming Kuih, spring bamboo shoots are also an indispensable delicacy in Tonglu during spring. Tender and delicious, spring bamboo shoots are rich in nutrients and are known as the "king of spring vegetables." In Tonglu, people prefer to cook spring bamboo shoots in the simplest ways, such as braising them with oil or stewing preserved meat with dried bamboo shoots, allowing the freshness of spring bamboo shoots to be fully showcased. Tasting spring bamboo shoots is like savoring the freshness and vitality of spring.

03. Malantou (Kalimeris indica)

Malantou is another delicacy of Tonglu in spring. With its tender texture and refreshing taste, it is believed to have heat-clearing and detoxifying effects. In Tonglu, people often stir-fry Malantou with ingredients like dried tofu and shredded meat to create delicious dishes such as stir-fried Malantou with dried tofu or stir-fried Malantou with shredded meat. Tasting these delicacies not only satisfies the palate but also embodies the health and vigor of spring.

04. Chinese Toon

Chinese toon, adored by some for its flavor, is shunned by others for its aroma. Apart from mixing with dried tofu or tofu, people in Tonglu also love to stir-fry Chinese toon with eggs! Those who know, know that it's incredibly delicious! The richness of the eggs balances out the strong flavor of Chinese toon, resulting in a fresh and delightful taste that is not greasy at all!

05. Fern

Fern, known as the "king of mountain vegetables," has distinctive features that set it apart from other wild vegetables. Tonglu locals affectionately call it "lanjitou" (orchid root). When hiking or wading through mountains and rivers, remember to look down and you'll see the small plants whose tops curled into lollipop-like shapes —resembling magical plants from animations—those are wild ferns! Be sure to pick the freshest part at the top. Fresh ferns are the best choice for tasting the freshness of spring.