Beijing Chinese Snack: Sweet Plum Juice Delight!
Beijing’s Sweet Chinese Plum Juice is a refreshing Asian snack that locals love in the summer. This traditional Chinese beverage, made from smoked plums, hawthorn, licorice, osmanthus, and rock sugar, is a popular Chinese dish perfect for cooling off. Whether you’re walking through Beijing’s historic alleys or enjoying a meal at an Asian restaurant, this must-try Chinese food is a delightful taste of authentic Chinese cuisine.
1. History of Beijing Sweet Plum Juice
Sweet Chinese Plum Juice, also known as Suanmeitang, started in the Qing Dynasty imperial kitchens. It was originally made to help emperors cool down and aid digestion after rich meals. Over time, the recipe spread to ordinary citizens and became a favorite summer beverage in Beijing. Its enduring popularity reflects the wisdom of traditional Chinese food and classic recipes.
2. Cultural Significance
This isn’t just a drink—it’s a symbol of old Beijing. It represents summer afternoons in narrow alleys, chess games under shady trees, and the simple joys of life. As a traditional Chinese snack, it carries the spirit of Beijing’s culinary culture and is a staple in local Asian restaurants and Chinese restaurants across the city.
3. Ingredients and Flavor
The soul of this famous Chinese dish is smoked plums (Wumei). Combined with hawthorn, licorice, osmanthus, and rock sugar, it delivers a balanced sweet-and-sour taste. The plums and hawthorn provide a unique tangy base, licorice adds a sweet aftertaste, and osmanthus gives a fragrant aroma. Chilled, the drink is smooth, refreshing, and perfect for hot days.
4. How It’s Made
Traditional preparation is meticulous. Soak the plums, hawthorn, and licorice in water. Boil on high heat, then simmer for hours to release all flavors. Add rock sugar to taste, strain, and cool naturally before chilling. This careful method ensures a rich, aromatic, and refreshing drink.
5. Taste and Experience
Take a sip and enjoy the gentle smokiness, floral notes, and a perfect mix of sweet and sour. The plum’s tartness, hawthorn’s fruitiness, licorice’s sweetness, and chilled refreshment make it a popular Chinese snack. It’s a flavorful experience that awakens your taste buds and quenches thirst.
6. When to Enjoy
Sweet Plum Juice is excellent after a hearty Beijing meal, like Peking duck or hotpot. It balances rich flavors and refreshes your palate. It’s also a perfect companion for a stroll through the city’s alleys or street food markets.
7. Where to Try in Beijing
You can find it in most local Chinese restaurants, small snack shops, or hotpot places. The most authentic versions are in traditional shops like “Huguo Temple Snacks,” priced around 8–15 RMB for 200–300ml. Just ask for a cup of Suanmeitang—it’s usually served chilled.
8. Easy Homemade Recipe
Ingredients: smoked plums, dried hawthorn, licorice, dried tangerine peel, and rock sugar (adjust to taste). Rinse and soak for 30 minutes. Boil with water, then simmer 40–60 minutes. Add rock sugar before finishing. Strain, sprinkle dried osmanthus, chill, and enjoy.
9. Traveler Tips
English names: “Sweet Chinese Plum Juice” or “Suanmeitang.” True Suanmeitang is balanced in sweetness and tartness. It’s an excellent digestif after meals and a refreshing summer treat—a must-try Chinese snack during your Beijing adventure.
