|

Shengzhou steamed buns are promoted in Hangzhou. [Photo/Tide News]

A recent event in Hangzhou spotlighted Shengzhou's iconic xiaolongbao, or steam buns, featuring live cooking demonstrations, interactive games, and exhibits highlighting the city's rich culinary heritage.

Visitors savored freshly steamed dumplings while learning about the culture behind Shengzhou's renowned snacks.

One standout exhibit featured a plane-shaped display at the booth of Bao Hang Foods. "In November, we signed a partnership with Zhejiang Loong Airlines," said Jin Yi, the company's sales director. "By the end of this month, our buns will officially take to the skies."

Steamed buns receive global acclaim for their paper-thin skin and light, flavorful fillings. They are steamed to perfection, highlighting a harmonious blend of their delicate textures with the distinctive fresh and aromatic broth.

The buns, generally thought to have originated in Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province, were actually created by locals from Shengzhou, a county-level city in Shaoxing, around 120 kilometers southeast of Hangzhou.

Local statistics show that there are about 50,000 Shengzhou natives who, relying on Shengzhou steamed buns, have opened more than 20,000 stores nationwide. Most of the shops that are scattered throughout the streets and alleys exist as mom-and-pop stores, with the handmade buns being of good quality.