Mixed Grain Dumplings

Mixed Grain Dumplings

　　Mixed Grain Dumplings, also known as mixed grain noodles, are one of the beloved coarse grain dishes among the people of Zhouqu. The local dialect term "dumplings" often leads first-time visitors to Zhouqu to assume they are some kind of small lump or ball of coarse grain. It’s only after seeing and tasting them that they realize — oh, they’re actually hand-pulled noodles made from mixed grains.

　　Mixed grain is made by grinding a specific ratio of wheat and soybeans. The resulting flour is fine-textured, slightly yellow in color, and nutritious. The origins of mixed grain can be traced back to a time when farmers lived in poverty and wheat was scarce, making white flour a luxury. To make up for the lack of wheat, soybeans were mixed with wheat and ground on stone mills. It became one of the staple foods. Nowadays, as living standards have improved and meals often feature rice, white flour, fish, and meat, mixed grain has become more of an occasional treat to vary the palate.

　　A delicious bowl of Mixed Grain Dumplings features thin, firm noodles with a glossy sheen, a tangy and flavorful broth, and crisp, refreshing pickles — all of which are sure to whet your appetite. The Mixed Grain Dumplings of Bazang in Zhouqu are especially famous, much to the dismay of homemakers in other parts of the county. In truth, no matter where you visit, the skillful women of Zhouqu can quickly whip up a tasty bowl of Mixed Grain Dumplings for you to enjoy.

　　Source: Office of the People's Government of Zhouqu County