Dali Milk Fan

Dali Milk Fan

　　Milk fan is a dairy product made from milk, conventionally measuring about 5–30 cm in length and 10–12 cm in width, shaped like an oblong fan. Two fans folded together are called “a pair.” To make it, fresh milk is first boiled and then mixed with edible acid to form yogurt. The proteins and fats in the milk are then spread into thin sheets using bamboo chopsticks and dried on a bamboo rack. It has a milky yellow color, is glossy and smooth, fragrant, sweet, and rich in nutrition. Easy to carry, it makes a great gift for family and friends.

　　Milk fan can be prepared in several convenient ways: pan-frying, steaming, or boiling. Pan-frying is the most common method—simply fry the milk fan in oil for a short time until it turns golden brown, then remove and place on a plate. Sprinkle with sugar or seasoned salt before eating; it's fragrant, crispy, and delicious. For a variation, wrap the milk fan around sweet red bean paste before frying, then slice into tubes called “red bean-stuffed milk fans.” For steaming, soften the milk fan in a steamer and sprinkle with sugar; it has a rich milky aroma and is very nutritious. For boiling, you can either fry the milk fan first, crumble it into a cup, add sugar, and drink it, or boil it in water with sugar. Note: do not mix milk fan with starch and deep-fry to imitate “purple-glazed meat”—it’s sometimes served as a vegetarian dish. (Dali)