Deep-fried Crispy Beans

Last updated 2026-11-15 — Deep-fried Crispy Beans is one of the uniquely flavored snacks in Shangcheng. The main ingredient is large, plump old peas, which are soaked in boiling water mixed with alkali and alum for 24 hours before being scooped out and placed in a bamboo tray. Using a sharp knife, they are lightly chopped about one-third of the way through the seed, then the peas adhering to the blade are swept into another container along the edge of the knife. Once dried and cooled, oil is added to a pan and heated until very hot. For every jin (500g) of peas, they are fried until golden brown and floating on the oil’s surface, then removed. They are then evenly mixed with salt and five-spice powder. The resulting peas have an ultra-crispy thin skin, a tender and chewy interior, with a perfect balance of softness and hardness. Salty and fragrant, they are delicious as a snack or paired with alcohol. Once packed, they’re suitable for all ages. This product has traditionally been sold by individuals carrying baskets and hawking on the streets, with no dedicated shops operating yet.