Zongzi (Sticky-Rice Dumplings) — Flavors, How to Eat & Where to Buy
Zongzi (粽子) are glutinous-rice dumplings wrapped in fragrant leaves and steamed or boiled. They’re the signature food of the Dragon Boat Festival, but you can find them year-round in Chengdu—from park teahouses to supermarkets. This guide covers flavors, how to order, reheating, gifting etiquette, and quick Mandarin.
What Exactly Is a Zongzi?
Structure
- Sticky rice (糯米) on the outside, fillings in the center.
- Wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves, tied with string.
- Shapes vary: pyramids, pillows, or tetrahedrons depending on region.
Cooking
- Boiled (most common) for 1–3 hours depending on size.
- Steamed for a slightly drier, more aromatic texture.
- Large/filled versions take longer; pressure cookers shorten time.
Despite the name, glutinous rice contains no gluten. If you’re gluten-sensitive, check sauces/fillings for soy sauce or wheat.
Popular Fillings — Sweet vs Savory
Sweet (甜粽 tián zòng)
- Red bean (豆沙) — classic, smooth and lightly sweet.
- Jujube (蜜枣) — fruity, honeyed aroma.
- Lotus seed paste — creamy, dessert-like.
- Often dipped in sugar or drizzled with honey.
Savory (咸粽 xián zòng)
- Pork belly (五花肉) — soy-braised; rich and tender.
- Salted egg yolk (咸蛋黄) — sandy, umami, pairs well with pork.
- Mushroom & peanuts — earthy, great vegetarian option if cooked without lard.
- Seasoned with soy sauce, five-spice, and aromatics.
In Chengdu you’ll find both styles; many shops offer mixed boxes for gifting during Duānwǔ.
How to Order in Chengdu (Quick Phrases)
- “要甜的还是咸的？” — Sweet or savory? → “甜的/咸的，谢谢。”
- “加蛋黄吗？” — With salted egg yolk? → “要/不要。”
- “一个/两个” — One/two pieces. You can also order by weight in some shops.
- To go: “打包 (dǎbāo).” Eat now: “现在吃。”
How to Eat (And Not Burn Your Fingers!)
- Snip or untie the string; peel the leaves gently away from the rice.
- For savory: add a splash of soy sauce or chili crisp if you like heat.
- For sweet: sprinkle a little sugar or drizzle honey.
- Eat with chopsticks or a spoon; watch for hot steam from the center.
Buying, Storing & Reheating
- Where to buy: Festival pop-ups, wet markets, teahouses, and supermarket freezer aisles (year-round).
- Fridge: 2–3 days in an airtight box; freezer: up to 1–2 months.
- Reheat from chilled: Steam 10–15 minutes or simmer in water 8–10 minutes.
- Reheat from frozen: Steam/simmer 20–30 minutes until hot through.
Gifting & Festival Etiquette
- Boxed zongzi make a popular Duanwu gift for host families and teachers.
- Offer/receive with two hands and a simple greeting: “端午安康！” (Wishing you health at Duanwu).
- If gifting to vegetarians/halal friends, choose sweet or veg savory clearly labeled.
DIY: Simple Home Zongzi (Beginner-Friendly)
- Soak leaves (hot water, 1–2 hrs) and sticky rice (cold water, 2–4 hrs).
- Prep filling: sweet red bean paste or savory soy-braised pork + egg yolk.
- Fold a leaf into a cone → add rice → filling → top with rice. Fold/press into a pyramid and tie firmly.
- Boil gently 1.5–3 hrs (size and filling matter). Rest 5 minutes before serving.
First time? Start with sweet—easier to season—and watch a folding video to learn the hand hold.
Allergy & Diet Notes
- Gluten: Rice itself is gluten-free; check soy sauce or marinades for wheat.
- Nuts/peanuts: Common in savory mixes—ask if unsure.
- Vegetarian/vegan: Look for labels like 素粽 (sù zòng) and confirm no lard.
- Halal: Choose sweet or veg options; avoid pork/lard fillings.
Useful Vocabulary
- 粽子 (zòngzi) — sticky-rice dumpling
- 甜粽 / 咸粽 — sweet / savory zongzi
- 蜜枣 / 豆沙 — jujube / red bean paste
- 五花肉 / 咸蛋黄 — pork belly / salted egg yolk
- 糯米 — glutinous (sticky) rice
- 打包 — to-go / takeaway
FAQ — Zongzi
Are zongzi only for Dragon Boat Festival?
They’re traditional for Duanwu but sold year-round in many places.
Sweet or savory for beginners?
Sweet is gentler; savory is richer and more filling—try one of each.
Can I microwave?
Yes if wrapped: splash of water, cover, medium heat 1–2 minutes. Texture is best with steaming/simmering.
Do I eat the leaves?
No—peel and discard. They’re for fragrance and shape.
Celebrate Duanwu with Masons Au Pair
We’ll point you to the tastiest zongzi stalls, organize wrap-your-own workshops with host families, and share festival etiquette so you can join like a local.
Join Our Au Pair Program