Residents of Shiqian County in Guizhou Province are embracing the Dragon Boat Festival in a uniquely traditional manner by crafting tea-fragrant “sister zongzi”—sticky rice dumplings that symbolize community bonds and cultural heritage.
In the days leading up to the festival, locals gather to collect fresh zongye, or reed leaves, washing and air-drying them in preparation. They also ready plump glutinous rice, sweet chestnuts, pliable straw, and other essential ingredients. Using time-honored methods passed down through generations, they assemble the “sister zongzi.”
The name “sister zongzi” stems from its distinctive wrapping style. Multiple reed leaves are wrapped together and tied with a single straw, symbolizing the close ties among siblings, neighbors, relatives, and friends—much like the leaves and straw depend on one another.
Once wrapped, the dumplings are neatly arranged in iron dingguan, tripod-shaped cooking vessels that play a crucial role in developing their flavor. Fresh taicha leaves, a unique tea variety native to Shiqian, are added to infuse the zongzi with their delicate aroma.
The cooking process lasts for two and a half hours over a wood fire. As the dumplings simmer, the fragrance of the taicha leaves permeates them, blending perfectly with the rich aroma of the rice and fillings. The result is a tea-scented zongzi that is not only delicious but also gentle on the stomach, aiding digestion and boasting a longer shelf life.
For the residents of Shiqian County, wrapping “sister zongzi” is more than just making food; it’s a celebration of their shared culture and a way to strengthen community bonds. When the steaming hot dumplings are lifted from the stove, neighbors eagerly share them with one another, spreading joy and warmth throughout the festival.
The tradition of making tea-fragrant “sister zongzi” reflects the deep-rooted customs of Guizhou Province and highlights the importance of preserving cultural practices. As the Dragon Boat Festival brings people together, the aroma of the “sister zongzi” serves as a reminder of the unity and friendship that tie the community together.
