Beijing Douzhir: A Bold Adventure in Chinese Snacks
Dear traveler, if you think Beijing is only about Peking Duck, you’re missing out on a true food adventure. Today we’ll unlock Beijing Douzhir, a legendary drink and one of the most traditional Chinese snacks. It may be the most unexpected flavor in China, but it’s also a must-try Chinese food that tells the story of Beijing’s culture.
1. Origin and History of This Famous Chinese Dish
Douzhir dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties in Beijing. It was created as a byproduct when locals made starch from mung beans. Instead of wasting it, the resourceful people turned it into an affordable yet nutritious dish. This shows the wisdom of old Beijing—transforming the ordinary into something magical.
2. Cultural Meaning in Authentic Chinese Cuisine
For Beijingers, Douzhir is more than food—it’s a taste of home. Unlike royal palace dishes, it belongs to the streets and markets, full of life and warmth. This drink represents the city’s traditional Chinese food culture, simple but full of spirit. Locals say: “If you haven’t tried Douzhir, you haven’t truly visited Beijing.”
3. Ingredients and Flavor of This Traditional Chinese Snack
The main ingredient is fermented mung bean juice, thick and slightly gray-green after cooking. It carries a sour, earthy aroma. The classic set, known as the “Golden Trio,” includes:
- Jiaoquan (crispy fried dough rings)
- Pickled vegetables with a spicy kick
- Savory shredded radish for balance
The taste may surprise you at first—sour, tangy, and bold, like a fermented grain drink. But with each sip, it becomes smooth, rich, and strangely addictive, especially when paired with the crunch of Jiaoquan.
4. How This Popular Chinese Dish Is Made
The process is traditional and careful: mung beans are soaked, ground into pulp, and the starch is separated. The remaining liquid ferments naturally until sour. Before serving, it is simmered over low heat while being stirred constantly to avoid burning. Once it thickens and bubbles, the aroma fills the air.
5. How to Drink Douzhir in a Chinese Restaurant
The best way to enjoy it is as a full breakfast set. Sip hot Douzhir, bite into a crispy Jiaoquan, and add a little pickle. Many Chinese restaurants serve it this way. For the most authentic experience, go to Huguosi Snacks, a time-honored eatery in Beijing. A bowl costs only 5–8 RMB, and the combo with fried dough is under 30 RMB—a true bargain for authentic Chinese cuisine.
6. A Must-Try Chinese Food for Adventurous Travelers
The English name is “Beijing Douzhir” or “Fermented Mung Bean Juice.” For first-timers, it might taste unusual, but keep an open mind. Many travelers fall in love after just the second sip. Add this to your famous Chinese dishes list, and you’ll carry home not just memories but the bold spirit of Beijing’s authentic Chinese snacks.
Travel Tip: Don’t use a spoon. Hold the bowl, sip in circles, crunch on Jiaoquan, and balance it with pickles. That’s the real Beijing way to drink it.
