Lamb Eye Dumplings

Lamb Eye Dumplings

　　 Legend has it that Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty once tasted Lamb Eye Dumplings, which made them famous. These dumplings are so named because of their small size, resembling a lamb’s eye. Despite their tiny appearance, they come with a variety of fillings and are very popular.

　　 Lamb Eye Dumplings are considered a delicacy in Hui cuisine. It is said that Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty once disguised himself and visited a Hui lamb dumpling shop outside Qianmen to try their Lamb Eye Dumplings. Upon entering the shop, the hospitable Hui shopkeeper served two cups of covered bowl tea on a small tray. After greeting Emperor Kangxi, he said with a smile: “If it doesn’t offend Your Highness, there’s no delicacy Your Highness hasn’t tasted in the palace, yet you’ve honored us by coming to try our Lamb Eye Dumplings. I truly don’t dare to serve them to you.” Though Kangxi knew his identity had been recognized, he pretended to still want to eat the dumplings. The shopkeeper had no choice but to say: “If Your Highness insists on having them, please wait a moment.” Soon after, a plate of steaming hot little dumplings was served. Kangxi picked one up with chopsticks, placed it on a plate, and observed it carefully. He was greeted by a rich aroma, and upon tasting it, found the flavor exquisite and the texture exceptional. However, despite looking around, Kangxi couldn’t find any “lamb eyes,” so he asked the shopkeeper: “Why can’t I see the lamb eyes?” The shopkeeper quickly replied: “Your Highness, I wouldn’t dare deceive you—there are no lamb eyes in the filling. They’re just made with fine craftsmanship and are small in size, resembling lamb eyes, which is why we call them ‘Lamb Eye Dumplings.’” Kangxi ate two and found them extremely delicious. He then issued an imperial decree: “I find these Lamb Eye Dumplings quite good. They can be sent to the palace regularly. The Imperial Household Department will issue payment.” From then on, Lamb Eye Dumplings became widely renowned and gained fame all over Beijing. As a result, Hui people across the city began making them, and they became a beloved delicacy among the Hui community.