Fried Cha Zi

Fried Cha Zi

　　Cha Zi was originally a distinctive food of the Manchu people. Made from corn, it is fermented, ground into a batter, settled, then shaped by hand or mold into smooth, chopstick-thick strips. It can be stir-fried or stewed, and has a delicious and appetizing flavor. As a Nanjing specialty snack, when stir-frying, the Cha Zi is typically soaked in cold water for a few minutes first to remove any sourness, then minced meat is added to the pan to sizzle. It is then mixed with chopped leeks, scallions, and other ingredients to pair with the Cha Zi. The result is chewy, tender, and flavorful. The stewing method is somewhat similar, except that the pot is prepared with broth for seasoning. The taste is refreshing and soothing.