Hele Zongzi: The Must-Try Traditional Delicacy in Wanning, Hainan
Hainan's Hele zongzi from Wanning City gains fame for its premium ingredients and soft, glutinous texture, becoming a must-try local delicacy.
For generations, Hele zongzi has been at the heart of celebrations in Wanning City, Hainan Province. As the Dragon Boat Festival approaches each year, local families gather to craft these carefully wrapped glutinous rice dumplings, continuing a tradition that dates back centuries. The process is a communal one, with family members sharing stories and skills as they prepare the rich filling and fold the patties into aromatic leaves, ready for steaming or boiling. The result is a delightfully soft and fragrant treat that holds a special place in local hearts.
What sets Hele zongzi apart from other types of zongzi found throughout China is its use of premium ingredients, such as the renowned Hele black pork and locally harvested salted duck egg yolks. The black pork is known for its tender texture and robust flavor, providing a savory depth to the zongzi’s core. Combined with silky duck egg yolks and sticky rice grown by the fertile banks of the Taiyang River, each bite delivers a nuanced balance of flavors and textures appreciated by locals and visitors alike.
The painstaking preparation involved in making Hele zongzi highlights the town’s culinary heritage. Each dumpling is meticulously assembled, ensuring the perfect ratio of meat, egg yolk, and rice. After being wrapped tightly in bamboo or reed leaves, the zongzi are steamed or boiled for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. This meticulous approach is a source of local pride and is widely regarded as integral to preserving the dish’s authenticity and traditional taste.
While Hele zongzi is enjoyed year-round, it becomes an essential part of community gatherings and celebrations during the Dragon Boat Festival. The dish not only satisfies appetites but also serves as a symbol of unity and cultural continuity. Many families pass down their own variations of the recipe, making each batch slightly different yet always rooted in shared customs. For residents of Wanning and visitors, sampling Hele zongzi offers both a delicious meal and a taste of Hainan’s rich, living tradition.
