Zhaliang

Originating from Cantonese cuisine, zhaliang refers to traditional Chinese deep-fried crullers wrapped in silky and almost translucent rice sheets. Similar to the plain cruller, zhaliang is commonly served for breakfast, but it is often a part of traditional Cantonese dim sum meals. It is accompanied by a unique, slightly sweetened soy-based sauce, which can be incorporated into the dish or served on the side. Zhaliang should always be freshly prepared, so the crullers do not lose their crunchy and soft texture. For easier consumption, they are served cut into bite-sized pieces and garnished with sesame seeds and sliced scallions. The dish is widely popular in the Cantonese region, particularly the Guangdong province, and it is one of the favorite dim sum dishes in Hong Kong. However, its popularity is also increasing in Chinese restaurants across the world, where it is becoming a staple dim sum dish.