Lüdagun – A Traditional Chinese Snack

Lüdagun, literally meaning "Rolling Donkey", is a traditional snack popular in Northeast China, Beijing and Tianjin. Its finished appearance features three colors—yellow, white, and red. The name comes from the final step of preparation, when roasted soybean flour is sprinkled over the pastry, resembling the clouds of dust kicked up by a donkey rolling on the ground in the countryside around old Beijing. 

It is made by steaming glutinous millet dough and is prepared with ingredients such as roasted soybean flour, sweet red bean paste, sugar, sesame oil, and osmanthus. Originating in Northeast China and later becoming especially popular in Beijing, Lüdagun is made in three main steps: preparing the dough, making the filling, and shaping the pastry. The finished snack is coated in golden roasted soybean flour, offering a rich bean aroma and a sweet filling that melts in your mouth, making it a favorite among people of all ages. 

According to traditional Chinese medicine, Lüdagun is believed to help strengthen the digestive system, promote urination, reduce swelling, and relieve internal heat and irritability. During the 2014 APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Beijing, Lüdagun was served at the state banquet as a representative of traditional Chinese snacks, giving international guests a taste of authentic Beijing flavors while showcasing Chinese culinary culture.