Happy Pie Day! Well, technically it’s Pi Day, but pie is much more fun to talk about. Mar 14, known as International Pi Day, is a celebration of the mathematical constant π (pi), which represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. Embraced by mathematicians, students, and enthusiasts worldwide, this day pays homage to the infinite and irrational number that plays a fundamental role in geometry, trigonometry, and beyond.
Whether you’re a math aficionado or simply someone with a sweet tooth ready to indulge in a slice of your favorite pie, International Pi Day brings together people of all backgrounds to appreciate the beauty and significance of this transcendent mathematical concept. Now let’s start Pi Day with some delicious Chinese meat pies – or 馅饼 (xiàn bǐng).
Chinese cuisine boasts a rich tapestry of flavors, and among its culinary delights are the diverse and delicious savory pies known as 馅饼 (xiàn bǐng). These savory pastries, filled with various mouth-watering ingredients, showcase regional flavors and offer a delightful experience for food enthusiasts. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to discover the different types of Chinese xian bing.
肉韭馅饼 (Ròu Jiǔ Xiàn Bǐng) – Pork and Chive Pie: A classic in many regions, this savory pie is filled with a delectable mixture of minced pork and fresh chives. The combination of savory meat and fragrant chives creates a harmonious blend of flavors.
三鲜馅饼 (San Xiān Xiàn Bǐng) – Three Delicacies Pie: Featuring a trio of ingredients, typically shrimp, pork, and vegetables, 三鲜馅饼 offers a medley of flavors. The filling is seasoned with various spices, creating a savory and satisfying experience.
鸡肉馅饼 (Jīròu Xiàn Bǐng) – Chicken Pie: For a more gourmet experience, this savory pie incorporates tender chicken and a medley of wild mushrooms. The earthy and rich flavors make it a delightful treat for those seeking a unique taste.
Pro Tip: This chicken pie makes for a great side order with sour spicy noodles (酸辣粉 suān là fen).
土豆牛肉馅饼 (Tǔdòu Niúròu Xiàn Bǐng) – Potato and Beef Pie: A heartier option, this pie is filled with a savory mixture of seasoned beef and diced potatoes. The comforting combination of meat and potatoes appeals to those with a hearty appetite.
海鲜馅饼 (Hǎixiān Xiàn Bǐng) – Seafood Pie: A coastal delight, 海鲜馅饼 features a flavorful seafood filling, often including shrimp, crab, and fish. The pie offers a taste of the ocean, making it a favorite in regions with abundant seafood.
韭菜猪肉馅饼 (Jiǔcài Zhūròu Xiàn Bǐng) – Leek and Pork Pie: Celebrating the vibrant flavors of leek and pork, this pie is a popular choice in many regions. The aromatic leeks complement the savory pork, creating a well-balanced and delicious filling. An even more popular vegetarian option for this is the leek and egg combination. Some restaurants will take it to the next level by mixing dried shrimp and vermicelli noodles into the stuffing.
Each region brings its own unique twist to these savory pies, inviting food enthusiasts to relish the rich culinary heritage of China. Let’s try out a classic leek and egg pie recipe:
Chinese Chive and Egg Pancake (韭菜鸡蛋饼) Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Chinese chives (韭菜), finely chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Soy sauce for dipping (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chives:
- Wash the Chinese chives thoroughly and finely chop them.
- Make the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, water, eggs, salt, and white pepper.
- Whisk the ingredients together until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Add Chives:
- Add the finely chopped Chinese chives to the batter and mix well.
- Cooking:
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a bit of vegetable oil.
- Pour a ladle of the batter onto the pan, spreading it evenly to create a thin pancake.
- Cook until the edges start to crisp and the bottom turns golden brown. Flip and cook the other side.
- Repeat:
- Repeat the process until you’ve used all the batter.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, cut the pancake into smaller pieces.
- Serve the Chinese chive and egg pancakes hot, optionally with soy sauce for dipping.
Images: BingAI
