Zhuhong Ancient Town, located in Xinghua, a county-level city in Taizhou, Jiangsu Province, is gaining renewed attention now that the custom of Xinghua morning tea has been added to the city's intangible cultural heritage list.
The town preserves much of its traditional charm and is considered the original home of Xinghua morning tea. This tradition dates back to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), when a teahouse opened in the town's commercial center. The teahouse not only served tea but also functioned as a meeting place for the head of the local wooden boat guild and as a hub for business information.
Tanggansi (scalded tofu threads). [Photo/WeChat account: xinghuafabu]
Zhuhong's morning tea focuses on tanggansi, a dish made from scalded tofu threads. Unlike other places, the town uses locally made thin pressed tofu sheets instead of dried tofu. The tofu is topped with a flavorful sauce and sesame oil, which gives the dish its unique taste.
Over time, dazhu gansi, a braised shredded tofu dish, was introduced to the town and adapted to include local ingredients. Traditional home-style tea snacks continue to be served today.
The town is also known for its noodles. Fish soup noodles are served in a rich, milky broth made from wild eel bones. Shredded pork noodles are presented in a red broth made with local shrimp-roe soy sauce, featuring springy noodles and a smooth topping.