White Rice Cake

White Rice Cake

　　White Rice Cake

　　The method of making it is extremely ancient. High-quality glutinous white fragrant rice is selected, washed and soaked thoroughly, then steamed in a bamboo steamer until fully cooked. It is then poured into a stone mortar and pounded thousands of times with a pestle until the grains are completely mashed and uniform. The mixture is taken out, kneaded into a dough that is chewy yet not sticky to the touch, and then pressed using carved round molds to form moon-shaped white rice cakes, which are decorated with patterns such as peonies or scrolling floral designs. Locals who favor good fortune also dot the center of the cakes with red, turning them into excellent gifts and delicacies for entertaining guests.