Xiâolóngbāo (小籠包)

Ginger is an extremely important component in Chinese cooking, not only for its olfactory and aromatic attributes, but also for health benefits that the Chinese believe Ginger fosters. Ginger is one of China’s oldest spices as it is documented in the dialogues of Confucius (551-479 B.C.). It is said to have many health benefits, including stimulating the heart and the circulatory system, and improving blood flow. The Chinese cook with the proverb “food and medicine have the same roots” in mind, and use roots readily throughout their cooking with the idea that one’s food should not only quench hunger, but also deter sickness and promote health.