As Chinese New Year approaches, the kitchens of Yuping Dong Autonomous County are buzzing with activity! Families are preparing hongba 🍚—a sticky, crimson-hued rice cake symbolizing luck and joy—alongside other festive treats like seasoned pork and ciba. The vibrant red color of hongba, deeply tied to Dong culture, represents prosperity and unity, making it a staple during celebrations.
\"Hongba is more than food; it’s a bridge connecting generations,\" says a local resident, highlighting how the tradition strengthens community bonds. The process of steaming glutinous rice, dyeing it with natural pigments, and shaping it into cakes is a cherished ritual passed down for centuries.
This year, young innovators are blending modern flavors with traditional recipes, keeping the custom alive for the digital age. 🌟 Whether shared with neighbors or displayed as a festive decoration, hongba remains a delicious emblem of hope as the Dong people welcome the Year of the Dragon.
