Huoshao Mo (Baked Flatbread)

Huoshao Mo

　　Huoshao Mo

　　Huoshao Mo is a unique type of bread from Jiange. Due to its resistance to mold, it can be stored for seven to ten days or even longer in the hot summer without going bad or losing flavor. It mainly serves two purposes: first, in the past, Jiange was known for its porters called “back carriers” (“Beier Ge”), who would carry goods on their backs for a living. Whenever they went out to work, huoshao mo was the dry food and travel money they carried; secondly, it plays an important role in weddings. On the third day after a bride returns to her parents’ home following the wedding ceremony, before she officially moves into her husband’s household, her family prepares huoshao mo as “Harmony Bread.” This “Harmony Bread” is shared among relatives and neighbors, so it needs to stay fresh for a certain period.

　　To make huoshao mo, the best-quality wheat flour is used, mixed with a small amount of vegetable oil and water, and then vigorously kneaded on a dough board. Because very little water is used, the dough becomes hard and must be forcefully worked together until it barely holds its shape, with a smooth outer surface. The dough is shaped into rounds about the size of a bowl opening and around two inches thick, then placed in a pan and baked over low heat to solidify the surface. Next, it is covered with firewood ash (also called charcoal cinder ash).

　　The temperature of the firewood ash must be high enough to cook the mo through without burning it. Baking a batch of huoshao mo takes an entire night, during which the ashes need to be changed at least three to four times. To test if the huoshao mo is done, you can tap the flat surface with your hand — if it makes a “pu, pu” sound, it is fully cooked. The taste of huoshao mo is sweet and fragrant, and crumbs will fall off when you bite into it. Typically, one mo is cut into four pieces for easier eating.

　　Not every housewife knows how to make huoshao mo. It is usually mastered by women from families of moderate or higher economic standing, or by those whose husbands are away for long periods. For these women, learning this skill is essential to managing daily affairs and hosting guests.