Roasted Rice Cake

Last updated 2026-11-13 — This rice-based food product can be found across the country, but only in Yunnan. According to ancient texts, wheat-based foods were generally referred to as "cakes" in ancient times, while those made from rice were called "er." Yunnan is an ancient cradle of humanity with a long history of rice cultivation. By the end of the lunar year, every household would select the finest rice, wash and soak it, then steam it until cooked. After pounding it into a paste-like consistency in a mortar, they would spread beeswax on a cutting board and knead the mixture into various shapes such as rectangles, ovals, or flat circles. These were used as gifts and were called "er kui" (gift rice). Over time, locals colloquially referred to it as "er kuai" (rice cake). (Kunming)