Ningqiang Tree Leaf Jelly

Ningqiang Tree Leaf Jelly

　　Ningqiang has a special local dish called tree leaf jelly, made from the leaves of a tree known as "Còu Huángjīn" (literally "Gathering Gold"). The preparation involves picking about one kilogram (half a bucket) of these leaves, placing them in a wooden barrel, and pouring hot water mixed with cypress ash over them. Then, using a rolling pin, the leaves are continuously stirred in the barrel until they break down. The resulting leaf juice is scooped into bowls and left to cool until it solidifies, after which it can be served cold in a salad. For the salad, ingredients such as garlic, salt, MSG, Sichuan peppercorns, vinegar (or fermented gluten liquid), and chili oil are added. Once mixed, it’s ready to eat — a completely natural and delicious treat. It is said to have health benefits, including improving digestion, nourishing the stomach, and promoting longevity.

　　　　This type of tree thrives in cool and moist environments, typically growing along small streams in mountain valleys. When we were children, we often picked these leaves — known as "Golden Leaves" or also nicknamed "Stinky Golden Leaves" — while herding cattle in the mountains. We would stir them up at night, and by the next day, they could be sold at the market or eaten at home. Delicious and appetizing. Ningqiang has a special local dish called tree leaf jelly, made from the leaves of a tree known as "Còu Huángjīn" (literally "Gathering Gold"). The preparation involves picking about one kilogram (half a bucket) of these leaves, placing them in a wooden barrel, and pouring hot water mixed with cypress ash over them. Then, using a rolling pin, the leaves are continuously stirred in the barrel until they break down. The resulting leaf juice is scooped into bowls and left to cool until it solidifies, after which it can be served cold in a salad. For the salad, ingredients such as garlic, salt, MSG, Sichuan peppercorns, vinegar (or fermented gluten liquid), and chili oil are added. Once mixed, it’s ready to eat — a completely natural and delicious treat. It is said to have health benefits, including improving digestion, nourishing the stomach, and promoting longevity.

　　 This type of tree thrives in cool and moist environments, typically growing along small streams in mountain valleys. When we were children, we often picked these leaves — known as "Golden Leaves" or also nicknamed "Stinky Golden Leaves" — while herding cattle in the mountains. We would stir them up at night, and by the next day, they could be sold at the market or eaten at home. Delicious and appetizing.