Rong’an County, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region—As the Dragon Boat Festival approaches, the Zhuang ethnic community in Rong’an County is bustling with activity. Locals are meticulously crafting colorful zongzi, traditional glutinous rice dumplings, to celebrate the upcoming festival.
The Zhuang people prepare a unique array of zongzi by cooking rice in vibrant plant and flower-infused soups, resulting in an array of hues that reflect the rich natural palette of the region. The colorful glutinous rice is then mixed with ingredients such as pork, peanuts, and Chinese water chestnuts.
Wrapping the rice and fillings in bamboo leaves, the zongzi are assembled according to age-old customs passed down through generations. This practice not only preserves the cultural heritage of the Zhuang people but also adds a festive spirit to the Dragon Boat Festival celebrations.
The Dragon Boat Festival, known as Duanwu Festival, is a significant event in Chinese culture, commemorating the ancient poet Qu Yuan. It is traditionally marked by dragon boat races and the eating of zongzi. In Guangxi, the Zhuang community’s colorful twist on this delicacy has become a distinctive cultural highlight, drawing interest from tourists and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Making these colorful zongzi is a way for the Zhuang people to honor their ancestors and share their traditions with younger generations. The vibrant zongzi symbolize the creativity and cultural richness of the Zhuang community, serving as a delicious treat that brings families and communities together during this festive time.
