Editor's Note: This article is produced in collaboration with the Chongqing Institute of Foreign Studies as part of a series of ongoing reports exploring the city’s abundant resources in intangible cultural heritage.
Tiefu Braised Peanuts is a classic delicacy developed by founder Li Guangyao, who drew inspiration from traditional braised peanut recipes recorded in the Qing Dynasty culinary treatise Xingyuanlu, written during the Qianlong era (1736-1795).
Tiefu Braised Peanuts is a classic delicacy developed by founder Li Guangyao, who drew inspiration from traditional braised peanut recipes recorded in the Qing Dynasty culinary treatise Xingyuanlu, written during the Qianlong era (1736-1795). Through extensive experimentation and his culinary expertise, Li refined this distinctive preparation method. The culinary technique has now been passed down for four generations, preserving the unique taste of braised peanuts, enriching its flavors over time. It has become a beloved culinary memory for generations of Chongqing people.
As a classic Chinese snack, braised peanuts are believed to help invigorate the spleen and stomach, supplement qi and nourish the blood, moisten the lungs, relieve cough, and promote digestion. Integrating folk creativity and traditional technique, it is widely loved for its authentic flavor. Made with readily available ingredients and simple preparation methods, this snack can be found across all regions in China, with regional variations giving it distinctive regional characteristics.
Tiefu Braised Peanuts, developed from Sichuan-style brine techniques, are characterized by their plump texture, freshness, crispness, rich nutrition, and aromatic flavor. The production process has been continuously refined, enhancing quality through the use of chicken soup for freshness, beef bones for added aroma, and rock sugar for a lingering sweetness. Over time, seven flavors have been developed, including salt-baked, spicy, five-spice, mountain pepper, and black duck, among others. When served with meals, it not only satisfies the appetite but also enhances the depth and layers of flavor in dishes.
This snack symbolizes family reunion and harmony. It often appears at gatherings of family and friends, allowing people to enjoy delicious food while experiencing the warmth of kinship and companionship. Thanks to its braising process, the peanuts can be stored for longer periods, making them an ideal travel snack. As travelers carry them along their journeys, they bring with them not only a tasty treat but also a sense of warmth and connection.
Chinese script: Ding Dang
Tutored by: Zhang Xuefeng
Translation: Luo Yimeng
Tutored by: Zhang Yidan, Wang Jing
Voice-over: Yang Yu