Bowl Rice Cakes

Last updated 2026-11-15 — Bowl rice cakes in Fengshun are a traditional New Year gift given to family and friends. Because they are sweet and contain less moisture, they are typically given in even numbers such as four, six, eight, ten, or twelve, which are considered auspicious. These cakes are made by steaming rice batter in small bowls. Well-made bowl rice cakes have an exquisite appearance, with a smooth and intact base. The tops puff up and crack open like blooming flowers — this is what locals commonly refer to as the "smile," and it's the most desired outcome. The "smile" is the essence of the bowl rice cake. A pot of bowl rice cakes that have "smiled" and split into several sections brings joy just to look at, and even more delight when eaten. Most importantly, their "smile" is believed to foretell a peaceful, prosperous, and happy new year for the whole family, filled with smooth business and endless laughter. As a symbol of good fortune, bowl rice cakes have always been highly cherished.