Beijing Pea Cake – Authentic Chinese Snack & Famous Summer Dessert
Introduction
Pea Cake, also called Yellow Pea Pudding, is a traditional Chinese snack loved for its silky texture and sweet taste. This authentic Chinese food has deep roots in Beijing, once a famous Chinese dessert in the royal court and now a must-try Chinese food at local Chinese restaurants. It is one of the most popular Chinese dishes to enjoy in spring and summer.
1. Origin and History of This Traditional Chinese Food
This sweet treat started in the Ming and Qing dynasties. It was said to be Empress Dowager Cixi’s favorite summer dessert. Later, it spread to the people of Beijing, showing the creativity and elegance of traditional Chinese cuisine.
2. Cultural Significance in Chinese Snacks
Pea Cake represents the charm of famous Chinese snacks. Once served in the royal court, it is now found in small shops and Asian restaurants, symbolizing the balance of elegance and daily life in Beijing.
3. Ingredients of This Authentic Chinese Dish
The recipe is simple: peeled yellow peas, sugar, and water. The peas must be carefully chosen. The final product shines golden, smooth like cream, and melts in your mouth.
4. Traditional Preparation in Chinese Cuisine
Yellow peas are soaked overnight, peeled, and slowly cooked. The mixture is strained, mixed with sugar, and simmered until thick. Then it is cooled and cut into diamond shapes. Making it requires skill, patience, and time.
5. Flavor and Texture of This Popular Chinese Dish
The taste is light, sweet, and refreshing. It has a rich pea aroma and a silky, smooth texture, almost like “silk on the tongue.” It feels both tender and slightly grainy, making it unique among Asian snacks.
6. How to Enjoy This Must-Try Chinese Food
Pea Cake is served chilled, cut into neat blocks. It pairs perfectly with jasmine tea or as a dessert after meals in Chinese restaurants. A serving usually costs around 15–25 RMB. You can order it by saying: “A portion of Pea Cake, please.”
7. Where to Taste This Traditional Chinese Snack
You can try this dessert in old Beijing shops or palace-style restaurants. Recommended places include Huguosi Snacks (chain) and Fangshan Restaurant in Beihai Park, two spots known for authentic Chinese food.
8. Travel Tips for Tasting Famous Chinese Food
In English, it is called “Pea Cake” or “Yellow Pea Pudding.” It is refreshing in spring and summer, similar to Western pudding but lighter and more natural.
9. Cooking Method of This Authentic Chinese Cuisine
Soak yellow peas overnight, cook until soft, and strain into smooth paste. Mix with sugar, simmer, and stir until thick. Pour into molds, cool, and refrigerate for 4 hours. Cut into blocks before serving.
Conclusion
This golden traditional Chinese dessert carries the flavor of old Beijing and the elegance of royal life. Take a bite of this authentic Chinese snack, and it may become the sweetest memory of your Beijing journey.
