Zhang Bao Dan

Zhang Bao Dan

　　"Bao Dan," also known as "century egg" or "pine-patterned egg," was historically referred to as "Chun Hun Zi" or "cowhide duck." Century eggs have a very long history in China. In Anzhou District, the most famous Bao Dan is "Zhang Bao Dan" from Sangzao. Regarding the origins of Zhang Bao Dan, it is said that during the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty, the founder Zhang Yuanlin met a wandering monk from Jiangsu and Zhejiang who taught him a unique technique for making century eggs. Later, the century eggs made by Zhang Yuanlin came to be known as "Zhang Bao Dan." Moreover, during the rice transplanting season and the Dragon Boat Festival, apart from eating zongzi, it became a local custom in Anzhou to also enjoy century eggs.

　　Zhang Bao Dan is meticulously crafted, using carefully selected ingredients and featuring a distinctive style. The core techniques of its production lie in selecting the eggs, preparing the ingredients, and aging them in cellars. Century eggs are not only a delicious delicacy but also possess medicinal value. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that century eggs have a cooling effect and can treat ailments such as eye pain, toothache, high blood pressure, tinnitus, and dizziness. When eaten with vinegar, they are believed to clear heat, reduce inflammation, nourish the heart, calm the spirit, and improve overall health.