Hele Zongzi: The Must-Try Traditional Delicacy in Wanning, Hainan
Hainan's Hele zongzi gains fame for its premium ingredients and exquisite craftsmanship, delighting local and international food lovers.
As the annual Dragon Boat Festival approaches, residents and visitors in Hainan’s Wanning City are drawn to Hele Town for a taste of the much-celebrated Hele zongzi. This iconic sticky rice dumpling is distinguished by its exceptional quality and the use of locally sourced, premium ingredients, making it a must-try for culinary enthusiasts seeking authentic regional flavors.
What sets Hele zongzi apart is the careful selection of its core ingredients. The glutinous rice, famed for its fragrant aroma and stickiness, comes exclusively from fields along the Taiyang River. Local chefs insist on using Hele black pork—a breed renowned for its tenderness and rich flavor—paired with golden-hued salted duck egg yolks. Each zongzi is meticulously hand-wrapped and steamed, creating a delicacy that is soft, savory, and layered with umami undertones.
The tradition of preparing Hele zongzi has been passed down through generations, with families gathering days ahead of the festival to prepare and share their favorite recipes. According to local customs, eating these specialty dumplings during the Dragon Boat Festival is more than just a culinary experience—it is an expression of family unity and respect for heritage. For many, Hele zongzi is imbued with nostalgia, reminding them of home and shared celebrations from years past.
During festival season, streets and marketplaces across Wanning are bustling with activity as vendors display trays lined with freshly made zongzi. Crowds gather, eager to purchase the delicacies or watch traditional demonstrations of wrapping techniques. Many travelers plan their visits around this time specifically to experience the unique taste and cultural significance of Hele zongzi, further cementing its reputation as a culinary treasure of Hainan.
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in preserving and promoting this traditional craft. Community initiatives and food festivals have spotlighted Hele zongzi, ensuring that the secrets behind its exquisite taste are handed down to younger generations. As the festival draws near, Hele Town prepares once again to welcome those seeking to savor one of Hainan’s most beloved regional specialties.
