Shangsi Fish Balls and Fish Cakes

Shangsi Fish Balls and Fish Cakes

　　Fish balls and fish cakes have long been among the favorite fish dishes of the Zhuang people living at the northern foot of the Shiwandashan Mountains, often appearing on wedding banquet menus. These dishes are usually made with mud carp for the best flavor, as the firm texture of the fish yields a crispy, sweet, fresh, and tender taste that’s very refreshing. Other types of fish, such as white mud carp, can also be used. The silvery-white, spherical fish balls symbolize silver ingots; the golden-yellow, spherical fish cakes (which may develop slight indentations when cooled) symbolize gold. Together, the fish balls and fish cakes signify “a continuous flow of wealth and treasures.”

　　Source: Official Website of the People's Government of Shangsi County