Shen County Intangible Cultural Heritage Cuisine – Zhanglu Nine Big Bowls

LIAOCHENG, China, Feb. 12, 2025 /Xinhua-AsiaNet/–

Zhanglu Nine Big Bowls is a signature traditional feast from Zhanglu Hui Ethnic Town in Shen County, Shandong Province, embodying the rich cultural and historical heritage of the cuisine of people of Hui ethnic group. This iconic Halal banquet dish, often regarded as the soul of Hui festive dining, features nine generously portioned stews, each served in large bowls and prepared with an emphasis on abundant ingredients, pure flavors, and rich, clear broths. The dish showcases a diverse selection of beef, lamb, chicken, duck, and fish, all cooked using a variety of techniques, including stewing, boiling, braising, frying, roasting, and steaming.

The origins of Nine Big Bowls trace back to a legendary act of humanitarian aid. According to local lore, a catastrophic flood once struck the region, leaving countless villagers in distress. A benevolent landowner used his entire grain stockpile to provide daily meals of nine different dishes to those in need. In gratitude, the villagers honored his memory by preparing nine symbolic dishes made from beef, lamb, and other ingredients on the anniversary of his passing. Over time, this tradition evolved into a celebrated banquet custom, passed down for over a century.

Image: Zhanglu Nine Big Bowls

Nine Big Bowls primarily features beef and lamb, complemented by cabbage, tofu, and vermicelli, with cooking styles of steaming and stewing that create tender, comforting flavors. Signature dishes include steamed meat, crispy fried meat, meatballs, chicken pieces, and fish segments, creating a well-balanced mix of meat and vegetables. What sets this dish apart is its symbolic presentation: the nine large bowls are arranged in a square formation with three bowls per side, resembling the Chinese character “Hui” , a nod to the cultural identity of the Hui people. Moreover, in Hui tradition, the number nine signifies prosperity, harmony, and completeness.

With its distinctive flavors, rich cultural heritage, and deep ethnic roots, Zhanglu Nine Big Bowls stands as a shining jewel of Shandong cuisine. More than just a dish, it serves as a symbol of unity and tradition for the Hui community and a testament to the diversity and richness of Chinese gastronomy.