Shancheng Small Tangyuan is a charming and sweet local delicacy in Chongqing. It’s a beloved dessert that reflects the unique food culture of this hilly city.
These tangyuan are small in size, much smaller than regular ones. Their outer layer is made from glutinous rice flour, which gives them a smooth and soft texture. The glutinous rice skin is so thin that it almost seems translucent, making the tangyuan look extremely delicate.
The fillings of Shancheng Small Tangyuan are diverse and full of flavor. One common filling is sweet osmanthus sugar. The sweet and fragrant osmanthus sugar filling melts in your mouth, releasing a rich and sweet aroma. Another popular choice is red bean paste. The red beans are cooked until soft and mashed into a fine paste, offering a smooth and sweet taste with a hint of bean flavor.
When it comes to cooking, the small tangyuan are usually boiled in water. Once they float to the surface, they are cooked to perfection. They can be served in a bowl of sweet soup. Sometimes, the soup is made from sweet osmanthus syrup, which further enhances the osmanthus flavor. In other cases, it’s a simple sugar water or even a combination of sugar water and a bit of fermented glutinous rice for an extra layer of flavor.
When you take a bite of Shancheng Small Tangyuan, the soft glutinous rice skin gives way easily, and the sweet filling bursts out. The overall taste is a harmonious blend of sweetness and softness. It’s a great dessert to enjoy after a spicy meal in Chongqing, as it helps to soothe the spiciness on your tongue and brings a sense of satisfaction. Whether you’re in a local dessert shop or a street vendor’s stall, Shancheng Small Tangyuan is always a delightful treat waiting to be discovered.
