A bite of Taicang in spring

Qingtuan (Green rice ball)

Qingtuan, or green rice balls, is a traditional snack made from wormwood juice and glutinous rice powder. There was originally only one kind of filling – red bean paste –but now there are many flavors, including sesame, date paste, salted duck egg yolk and meat floss, and purple sweet potato.

Fermented rice cake

Fermented rice cake looks similar to Suzhou-style moon cake and has a soft texture. Red bean paste and rose are two common fillings. Lard and pine nuts are also added to enrich the flavor. The cake will turn golden and crispy after being fried or baked and its filling is fresh, sweet, and tender.

Malt cake

Malt cake is a kind of small fried bun with sesame on both sides. It is often steamed before being fried and the cake is made in such a way to give it a sweet and refreshing flavor.

Songhua rice ball

Songhua rice balls are covered with soybean meal and come to market after Tomb Sweeping Day every year. It is generally stuffed with red bean paste and sesame. It is better when eaten cold.