Yellow Pea Pudding: A Sweet Taste of Old Beijing(豌豆黄)

1. Origins and Cultural Meaning

Pea cake, or yellow pea pudding, began as a Beijing street snack.
It entered the royal court during the Qing Dynasty.
Empress Dowager Cixi loved it as one of her favorites.
It reflects the rise of folk food to imperial cuisine.
Today it is a spring symbol of traditional Beijing desserts.

2. Ingredients and Making Process

The main ingredient is peeled yellow peas.
Sugar and natural gardenia yellow give it color.
The pudding is soft, golden, and cut into neat cubes.
Peas are soaked, boiled, and pressed into a smooth paste.
Sugar is added, then slowly cooked and cooled to set.
The process requires patience, but the texture is silky.

3. Flavor, Eating Tips, and Travel Experience

Yellow pea pudding is cool, sweet, and melts in your mouth.
It has a soft bean flavor, sweet but never heavy.
Pair it with Chinese tea like jasmine for the best experience.
You can try it in old Beijing snack shops or royal-style restaurants.
A serving costs about 15–30 RMB in 2025.
Famous spots include “Huguosi Snacks” and “Fangshan Restaurant.”
Ask for “Yellow Pea Pudding” or “Pea Cake.”
For extra refreshment, request the chilled version.
Remember, it is best enjoyed cold from the fridge.
Add it to your must-try Beijing dessert list!