In the picturesque Shimo County of Guizhou Province, a delightful aroma fills the air as communities come together to make sesame cakes—a cherished tradition during the Spring Festival. These handmade treats, crispy and sweet, add a special flavor to the festivities and symbolize togetherness and joy.
The Art of Making Sesame Cakes
Sesame cakes are crafted from glutinous rice and sesame sugar, enriched with peanuts, sesame seeds, and melon seeds. The process is intricate and time-consuming, reflecting the dedication of the villagers.
It all begins with soaking glutinous rice for 48 hours. The rice is then steamed over high heat, cooled, and dried. Once dried, the rice is fried in hot oil until it puffs up. Simultaneously, sesame sugar is boiled into a thick syrup. The puffed rice is mixed with the syrup and stir-fried before being pressed into molds and cut into pieces, resulting in a batch of sweet, crispy sesame cakes.
A Community Affair
In Pingzhong Village near Shimo, making sesame cakes is more than just preparing a festive snack—it’s a communal activity that brings neighbors together. Typically, seven to eight villagers gather, working side by side amidst lively conversation and laughter. This shared experience infuses the cakes with a festive spirit and strengthens community bonds.
“We have a custom of making sesame cakes for the Spring Festival,” said Yang Zhengxian, an elderly villager. “Now that I’m older, I teach others to make them, passing down this craft to preserve the tradition for future generations.”
The Sweet Taste of Home
These sesame cakes are not only a popular snack but also a special treat for entertaining guests during the holiday. For many villagers, they hold a nostalgic place in their hearts, symbolizing the sweetness of life and the joy of reunions. Even those who have moved away often return home to savor the familiar taste.
“We’ve been eating these sesame cakes since we were kids—it’s the flavor of our childhood,” said Liu Lina, a young villager. “Every year, we use them to treat friends and family. The slightly sweet flavor symbolizes a happy and sweet life in the year ahead. For us, these cakes are the essence of our memories.”
Preserving a Beloved Tradition
As modern life accelerates and traditions evolve, the residents of Shimo County hold tightly to the practice of making sesame cakes. This beloved tradition continues to represent the sweetness of life and the importance of community, ensuring that the rich cultural heritage is passed down through generations.
Reference(s):
Sesame cakes: A sweet tradition of Spring Festival in Guizhou
cgtn.com
