In the realm of Chinese late-night snacks, barbecue reigns supreme with its diverse regional variations. From the smoky Northeastern skewers to the Yunnan Handful of Barbecue (把把烧) and the robust Western Sichuan hotpot grills, each type of barbecue boasts its own techniques and ingredients. However, amidst this flavorful landscape, there's one standout exception: Xinjiang. Here, barbecue is synonymous with one thing — lamb. Surrounded by prized sheep, Xinjiang has no reason to grill anything else. However, if someone talks about Xinjiang lamb skewers, they're either a local or running a non-local establishment. After reading through the whole article, you will find out why. The Art of Xinjiang Barbecue Ingredients Xinjiang's dominance in barbecue owes much to its natural bounty of local ingredients, especially its lamb. At most barbecue stalls here, the meat is threaded on-site. Picture stainless steel basins brimming with freshly cut chunks of lamb, a mosaic of red and white, fat and lean. Larger stalls have designated skewers, while smaller ones wait for the grill master's free moment for self-threading. For cost-effective vendors, the sequence often alternates between lean and fatty cuts, ensuring each skewer is substantial with five meaty chunks. White lamb fat is a natural oil…

Pepper salt is a common seasoning in various regions of China. Pepper salt is a common seasoning in various regions of China. Toast Sichuan peppercorns and salt over medium heat for about a minute or two until the fragrance of the peppercorns is released, then set aside to cool. In northern China, the method for making pepper salt involves frying Sichuan peppercorns until crispy, grinding them into powder, and mixing them with fine salt. This mixture is typically used as a seasoning for fried chicken or other fried meats. It can be added to the batter of fried foods or sprinkled over fried foods after cooking. Pepper salt is also used in various types of bread, such as pancakes and beef tongue pancakes. It can also be used for barbecuing. Main Ingredients The main ingredients of pepper salt are Sichuan peppercorn powder and salt. Pepper salt is essentially a culinary seasoning consisting mainly of Sichuan peppercorns and salt. To prepare pepper salt, Sichuan peppercorns and salt are mixed together and briefly fried in a pan until fragrant, then removed and allowed to cool before grinding. Pepper salt has a fragrant aroma with a slightly pungent odor when smelled up close.…

As we enter June, dramas with female-centric themes are making a strong impact. Both "The Double" and "The Tale of Rose" have delivered impressive performances since their premieres, with steadily rising viewership and discussion heat. Interestingly, both shows are narrated from a "great female lead" perspective, focusing on themes of growth, revenge, and even vengeance. If "being a woman is a condition," these two dramas, set in different backgrounds, illustrate this condition through the characters Xue Fangfei and Huang Yimei. By examining the protagonists' settings and fate, we can see the next iteration of the great female lead theme and trace the common issues present in female-centric dramas. So, will the future model for great female leads be Xue Fangfei or Huang Yimei? The plots of "The Double" and "The Tale of Rose" are not overly complex. The former depicts a tragic wife who pseudo-reborn and seeks revenge, while the latter revolves around a woman's love story with four men. Both protagonists' stories follow the narrative pattern of female-centric novels: clear character growth, with their pains mainly caused by men. As they grow, the presence of men in their lives diminishes. Additionally, Xue Fangfei and Huang Yimei share some overpowered…

Just as Joy of Life 2 (庆余年2) concluded, The Story of Roses (玫瑰的故事) officially announced its debut on CCTV-8. With national goddess Crystal Liu in the lead, this drama had already captured the public's attention even before airing. In 1981, Chow Yun-fat and Maggie Cheung starred in the film version of "The Story of Roses," which directly broke Hong Kong's art film box office record. After 37 years, Hong Kong romance novelist Yi Shu personally adapted the script for Crystal Liu, setting the story in old Beijing in 2001. The Central Academy of Fine Arts (中央美术学院) where Crystal Liu's character resides is filmed at Beijing's 491 Space Water Platform, not only the former site of 491 Radio but also China's earliest radio station. Many celebrities such as Jing Boran and Roy Wang have also filmed here. Scenes of Crystal Liu rollerblading were shot at Beijing Bell Tower; the dinner scene with Guodong and Roses in Episode 6 took place at Fou-Lu (福禄) french restaurant, one of Beijing's top-tier French restaurants; the hot pot scene with Roses and Guodong's father in Episode 9 was shot at Lao Men Kuai's tripe and beef hot pot, a real-life location. In addition to being…

Yu (屿) is the Chinese pinyin for a wonderful island. In the bustling city of Guangzhou, a culinary gem named Yu has recently ascended to the prestigious ranks of the Michelin Guide, securing its first star. Behind this remarkable achievement stands May, an elegant and accomplished woman with a background in oil painting and a decade of experience in the culinary industry. Her journey from an art school graduate to a Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur is a tale of determination, passion, and a bit of rebellious spirit. The Bold and Brave Path of a Chef Had May followed the path laid out by her parents, both art teachers, she would likely be working in the arts today. Instead, she pursued a different route. May's upbringing in an art-centric household led her to study fine arts and graduate in oil painting. However, upon completing her studies, she embarked on her stubborn and brave rebellious phase. Without formal culinary training, May audaciously approached Michelin-starred restaurants, eager to learn and compete. Financial constraints did not deter her ambition to further her culinary education. She entered high-stakes cooking competitions, earning full scholarships and honing her skills. With a fearless attitude, she established her own…

Baba (粑粑), often overlooked in Northern Chinese cuisine, shines brightly as a beloved staple across Southern China, presenting a vast universe of culinary delights that rival the variety of Bing (饼), Mo (馍), and Huoshao (火烧). This versatile delicacy, ranging from plain to filled, sweet to savory, and steamed to fried, embodies the rich culinary traditions and diverse flavors of the region. Let's embark on a journey to uncover the cultural heritage and regional variations of Baba, celebrated in provinces like Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, and beyond. Basic Baba: Essence of Simplicity In its simplest form, Baba requires nothing more than grains and water, cooked in a manner that elevates simplicity to sublime flavors. In Xiangxi, glutinous rice Baba reigns supreme as a classic. During the lunar twelfth month, every household steams glutinous rice, pounding it into soft, sticky balls. Shaped into moon-like discs, these Baba are cooled in cold water for preservation until spring. Variations include sorghum Baba made with sticky sorghum, offering a different texture and taste experience. Baba can be pan-fried, cooked in soup with sliced strips, but its most beloved preparation involves direct grilling over charcoal. The heated Baba puffs up like balls, developing a golden crispy…

The intense summer drama showdown has begun. Youku has set the stage good start with "The Double," and now they’re back with a surprise hit - "The Princess Royal." Upon its release, this drama swiftly climbed to the top of Youku's hottest premieres of 2024. Within the first three episodes, "The Princess Royal" manages to tell a story with the pace and charm that would take other dramas a dozen episodes to cover. The plot advances at lightning speed, from the protagonists' deaths to their reunion in a new life, leaving no room for unnecessary filler. For those recovering from the addictive "The Double," "The Princess Royal" is the perfect follow-up. This drama blends intense romance and sweet moments seamlessly. With Youku consistently delivering high-quality dramas, audience expectations have risen. While innovating in the historical romance genre is challenging, "The Princess Royal" manages to surprise. It combines a strong male and female lead dynamic with multi-layered relationships, where the leads are adversaries, allies, and lovers all at once. This creates a sweet yet complex narrative that keeps viewers hooked. In recent years, sweet dramas have faced criticism for being formulaic and artificial. However, "The Princess Royal" offers fresh and grounded…

When traveling to Fujian, a southeastern province of China, one must immerse themselves in the region's diverse and rich culinary landscape. Fujian cuisine, often overshadowed by its spicier counterparts from other regions, offers a unique blend of flavors that highlight the natural sweetness and freshness of its ingredients. Here, we'll explore the delectable delights of Fuzhou and Quanzhou, two cities that epitomize Fujian's gastronomic charm. Fuzhou: A Symphony of Sweet and Fresh Flavors Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian, is renowned for its distinctive sweet and fresh flavors. The city's cuisine is a harmonious blend of sweetness that doesn't overpower but enhances the natural taste of its ingredients. Lychee Pork: A Sweet Surprise Before visiting Fuzhou, I had heard about the famous lychee pork and was curious to try it. Contrary to its name, lychee pork does not contain any lychees. Instead, the dish is named for the pork's lychee-like appearance. The meat is coated in a batter, deep-fried, and then stir-fried in a tangy tomato-based sauce. Its taste is reminiscent of sweet and sour pork, a beloved dish in northeastern Chinese cuisine. This sweetness is a hallmark of many Fuzhou dishes, such as stir-fried pork liver and drunken ribs. While…

Have you ever heard of Morning Wine? This phrase might sound unfamiliar, but a quick search on platforms like Bilibili or Douyin will reveal videos with hundreds of thousands or even millions of views—scenes depicting a leisurely meal in the early hours, complete with small glasses of wine and a table laden with dishes. This tradition of enjoying a relaxed breakfast with a few drinks has quietly captured the admiration of many, drawing young people to regions like Hubei, Sichuan, and Chongqing, where Morning Wine culture thrives. In the heartlands of China, beyond the bustling cities and serene countryside, lies a breakfast tradition steeped in camaraderie and cultural richness—the practice of Morning Wine (晨酒). Contrary to its name, Morning Wine is not merely about alcohol but embodies a convivial morning meal paired with modest spirits, celebrating local flavors and community ties. Originating along the banks of the mighty Yangtze River, Morning Wine is more than just a meal; it's a social ritual deeply ingrained in the fabric of everyday life. Traditionally enjoyed by laborers and farmers to kickstart their day, it has evolved into a cherished custom celebrated across generations. Beyond Just Morning Drinks: The Allure of Meat At first…

Zhang Yuxi, this female artist who has an extremely beautiful face and extraordinary talents, has always been the focus of everyone's attention. Her excellent performance in the variety show "First Grade" left a deep impression, and her love story with Wang Sicong even made people sigh at her maturity in emotional handling. Especially when she walked out of the country in a gorgeous cheongsam, her elegant posture and noble temperament instantly became the focus of the whole audience, and her name also became a synonym for beauty. Since Zhang Yuxi made her debut, she has won widespread love with her natural beauty. Her clear eyes and delicate features bring visual enjoyment every time she appears in front of the camera. Not only that, the elegant temperament and proper behavior that Zhang Yuxi shows on multiple occasions make her the goddess in the hearts of many fans. Whether at banquets or events, she can always show her own style, whether it is decent dresses or casual clothes, she can show her unique charm. And the charm of Zhang Yuxi in a cheongsam is even more irresistible. On the streets abroad, she was dressed in a yellow printed cheongsam, and the classical…

After the market saw the decline of the once-dominant "palace intrigue" and "time-travel" dramas, similar genres like "family intrigue" and "rebirth" dramas have experienced a resurgence in recent years. Combining the elements of both "family intrigue" and "rebirth," new series have emerged, doubling the dramatic conflicts and emotional thrills that keep female audiences hooked. Last year's hits "Story of Kunning Palace," "Scent of Time," and "Romance on the Farm," as well as this year's "The Double," are all prime examples. But what exactly is the allure of "palace intrigue" and "family intrigue"? And why do "time-travel" and "rebirth" continue to captivate audiences?   Competitive Spirit vs. Intrigue Although "competitive femininity" is often criticized, the "battle of wits" undeniably captivates audiences. Traditional palace intrigue dramas revolve around competitive femininity, where palace women vie for favor, either actively or passively, engaging in a struggle filled with both overt and covert schemes. The distorted human nature and malevolent hearts revealed in these struggles act as a vivid moral lesson in human depravity. The strategies employed by the female protagonist in battling the surrounding enemy forces in the palace provide a lively display of practical wisdom. While competitive femininity may not align with the…

Some people once said that putting on a cheongsam seems to be revisiting the thousands-of-years-old traditional virtues of Chinese women. And when Zhang Man Yu wears a cheongsam, it is precisely to interpret this virtue to the fullest: dignified and intellectual, gentle and generous, implicit and moderate. Every expression and gesture reveals the unique charm and quietness of women. As a representative of traditional Chinese women's clothing, with its unique design and elegant charm, the cheongsam showcases the traditional virtues of Chinese women for thousands of years. However, for the same wearing of a cheongsam, some people can be out of the ordinary, while some are plain and unremarkable, and the key lies in the temperament and self-cultivation of the wearer. The appeal of the cheongsam lies in its peculiar oriental charm, and the perfect presentation of this charm requires inner cultivation and bearing. Zhang Man Yu is a good example. Her unique oriental feminine charm allows her to interpret it to the fullest when wearing a cheongsam. Her eyes are graceful, and her steps are elegant, and every expression and gesture reveals the unique charm and quietness of women. Compared with Zhang Man Yu, some young female stars had…

The 2024 "Silk Road Week" grandly opened at the China National Silk Museum! The highlight of this event is the grand exhibition "The Silk Road's Chang'an," officially launched with over 210 artifacts on display, including more than 50 first-class relics. The exhibition is divided into five sections, showcasing a vibrant, diverse, open, and integrated Chang'an through aspects such as politics, economy, culture, lifestyle, and its long-standing connections with Zhejiang. Chang'an, the ancient name for Xi'an, located in the central Guanzhong Plain, is one of the cradles of Chinese civilization. Historically, over ten dynasties, including the Western Han, Xin, Eastern Han, Western Jin, Former Zhao, Former Qin, Later Qin, Western Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, and Tang, established their capitals here over a span of more than a thousand years. It is the city with the longest history, most dynasties, greatest influence, and richest heritage in Chinese history. During the Han and Tang dynasties, Chang'an was the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, a crucial node connecting the Eurasian continent. With its thriving economy, splendid culture, and inclusive nature, it became an undeniable global metropolis and a center of cultural exchange between China and the world. This year marks the 10th…

At the recent red carpet of the movie event, Na Ran became the focus of everyone's attention with her astonishing beauty and unique style. She was dressed in a black cheongsam and held a folding fan, transforming into a classic beauty, showing a kind of transcendent and refined classical charm, which made the whole place amazed. Na Ran's black cheongsam is undoubtedly the highlight of her entire look. This cheongsam perfectly outlines her figure curve, showing her elegance and sexiness. The black fabric exudes a mysterious atmosphere and complements Na Ran's temperament. The delicate embroidery and detailed processing on the cheongsam add a touch of nobility and magnificence, making people can't help but admire it. And the folding fan in Na Ran's hand adds a touch of agility and playfulness to her look. The folding fan has always been a symbol of women's elegance and wisdom in traditional Chinese culture, and Na Ran skillfully used this element to create a beautiful woman full of classical charm. She gently shakes the folding fan, sometimes showing a charming smile, and sometimes showing a sharp look, as if telling an ancient and touching story. Na Ran's skin is as smooth as jade, which…

Recently, the Hunan Museum unveiled a 3D digital avatar of Lady Xin Zhui, captivating enthusiasts of traditional Chinese attire. This legendary figure has always sparked endless discussions. Currently on display at the Hunan Museum’s “Women of the Han Dynasty and the Roman Empire” exhibition is a 48-gram Quju robe that has never been exhibited before, adding a touch of legendary charm. Let’s journey back to the summer of 1972. Lady Xin Zhui, the wife of Li Cang, the first Marquis of Changsha from the early Western Han Dynasty, was unearthed from the Mawangdui Han tombs in Changsha, Hunan. Upon excavation, Xin Zhui’s face was well-preserved, and she was dressed in intricately decorated silk garments, exuding an aura of grace and nobility. However, due to prolonged submersion in the waterlogged tomb, the silk fabrics wrapping her body had fused together. After much discussion, the archaeological team decided to follow the advice of Hunan Provincial Museum’s then-deputy director Hou Liang. They inserted a large wooden board into the side of the wooden coffin, then slowly tilted the coffin towards the board until it was completely flat, allowing them to transfer Xin Zhui onto the board. This method enabled the safe extraction of…

In the magnificent long river of traditional Chinese culture, the cheongsam is like a wonderful flower, exuding eternal charm. Entering the Chinese Cheongsam Museum is like starting a journey through time and space, allowing people to appreciate the unique charm and profound cultural heritage of this classic dress. Here, not only the evolution process of the cheongsam is displayed, but also through one exquisite exhibit after another, we can get a glimpse of the social features and aesthetic changes in the Republic of China era. The Precipitation of History and the Inheritance of Beauty In the depths of the cheongsam museum, there are precious photos of famous ladies and stars in the Republic of China era wearing cheongsams. Their elegant postures and the magnificence of the cheongsams complement each other, forming a series of moving pictures that make visitors can't help but be intoxicated. The bright red satin round flower auspicious dress robe in the Qing Dynasty, with its luxury and solemnity, makes people respectful. As a formal dress for grand occasions under the conditions of the Qing Dynasty ritual system, women could not expose curves like in modern times, and the ingenious concealment of the female curves in its…

In the subways of the city, a group of grandmas wearing cheongsams have become a unique landscape. Though they are over fifty years old, they show the everlasting charm with their confident and elegant postures. These "subway cheongsam grandmas" use their dressing and temperament to interpret for people what true fashion and beauty are. The Charm of Cheongsam: Inheritance and Innovation As a traditional female costume in China, the cheongsam has a long history and profound cultural heritage. With its unique cutting and design, it shows the elegance and graceful figure of women. However, with the change of times, the cheongsam is also constantly innovating and developing. Modern cheongsams retain traditional elements, and incorporate fashionable designs and elements, making them more suitable for modern women to wear. These subway cheongsam grandmas choose the cheongsam as their daily dress, which is not only the inheritance and promotion of traditional culture, but also the display of their own beauty and confidence. They use their own ways to put on the traditional costume with a new style and charm. Tips for Selecting Cheongsam For the grandmas who are older, it is not easy to choose a suitable cheongsam. The following are some tips…

Since its inception, "The Tale of Rose" has been under the spotlight, garnering significant attention throughout its development. Firstly, the involvement of director Wang Jun and screenwriter Li Xiao, both renowned for their urban-themed works and recognized by the Magnolia Awards, along with the addition of Liu Yifei, has heightened audience anticipation. Additionally, the drama is produced by New Classics Media, a subsidiary of China Literature Group, known for its leading role in urban dramas and its expertise in adapting Yi Shu's works, with an impeccable track record. However, the project also faces considerable pressure. How can it cultivate something unique in the well-trodden field of female-centric dramas? How can it navigate shifting audience tastes amidst changing public discourse? How can it avoid being pigeonholed? "The Tale of Rose" explores love but avoids compensatory romanticism. It portrays independent, free-spirited modern women without pandering to idealistic fantasies. Using a realistic approach, it depicts a courageous and evolving female protagonist. Despite not taking the shortcut of sensationalism, it still deeply resonates with the audience. Its professionalism shines through practical yet imaginative symbolism, clever cross-cutting, and meticulous visual details, constantly drawing viewers into the main story. On social media, many analyze its buried…

On the fashion stage, age has never been a factor that limits beauty. For women in their fifties and sixties, how to show a young and energetic image is an important topic. In recent years, the Chinese-style modified cheongsam has become a darling of the fashion industry. It not only has a strong cultural heritage but also allows middle-aged women to show a unique charm. Today, we will take He Saifei's dressing as an example to introduce the selection and matching skills of cheongsam for everyone, helping women in their fifties and sixties get rid of the feeling of auntie and show a different fashion side. First, why is the cheongsam suitable for women in their fifties and sixties? Chinese embroidery, highlighting the cultural heritage. The cheongsam with Chinese style is known for its exquisite embroidery craftsmanship. These embroidery not only reflects the craftsmanship spirit, but also allows the wearer to visually feel the quality of the clothes. A well-made Chinese cheongsam, even if the style is not fancy enough, can also show a sense of high-end with its unique cultural heritage. Long skirt design, covering the disadvantages of the figure. Formal cheongsam is usually in the long skirt style,…

For nearly two decades since the premiere of "Chinese Paladin" in 2005, ancient costume fantasy dramas have captivated audiences with their enchanting worlds and captivating storytelling. From "Eternal Love" to "Ashes of Love," "The Untamed," "Love and Redemption," "Word of Honor," "Legend of Fei," and the recent sensation "Ancient Love Poetry," these dramas have consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre, expanding its horizons and attracting a diverse fanbase. As the genre enters its third decade of exploration, the question arises: What lies ahead for ancient costume fantasy dramas? One potential direction for the genre is to delve deeper into mythology and folklore, drawing inspiration from a wider range of cultural traditions and legends. While many ancient costume fantasy dramas have been rooted in Chinese mythology, there is ample opportunity to explore other mythologies from around the world, introducing audiences to new and intriguing mythological realms. Moreover, there is a growing demand for more diverse and inclusive storytelling within the genre. While ancient costume fantasy dramas have traditionally focused on heterosexual romances between male and female protagonists, there is an increasing appetite for stories featuring LGBTQ+ characters and relationships. By embracing diversity and representation, the genre can appeal to a…