At the table
Eat with a spoon, taking a little rice, vegetables and tofu in each mouthful. Let the thick porridge cool before eating. Ask which beans and additions are in today’s pot.
Fried tofu contains soy; some mixtures include peanuts or sesame oil. Meat versions may contain rib bones. Check the full mixture and broth for dietary needs, and check large pieces or whole beans before serving someone who has difficulty chewing.
This is a savory porridge, not necessarily the sweet eight-treasure dessert. Ingredients vary, and pork ribs or meat broth may be included. Vegetarian and vegan suitability are unconfirmed without checking the whole recipe. The non-chili style has chili heat 0; added chili changes it.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Household mixtures vary rather than following one fixed set of eight ingredients. Ribs, including salted ribs in some preparations, are optional.
Typical ingredients
In some versions
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Savory grain and vegetable flavors; richer when meat is included.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Soft, thick rice porridge with tender pieces of vegetables and tofu.
- How it’s made
- Simmer the rice with the chosen beans, vegetables and other ingredients until the grains soften and the porridge thickens.
Household mixtures vary rather than following one fixed set of eight ingredients. Ribs, including salted ribs in some preparations, are optional.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Jiangsu.
About this regional connection
Jiangsu: Associated with Changzhou, Jiangsu.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有八宝咸粥吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
Changzhou’s savory Laba bowl
This account describes a tradition or story, rather than an established historical fact.
Around the Laba festival in the twelfth lunar month, Changzhou households cook a savory mixed porridge. Rice, beans, taro, vegetables and fried tofu bring different textures to one pot; some cooks add pork ribs, including salted ribs. The combination reflects the household rather than a rigid list of eight. For travelers, the savory flavor is the key distinction from sweet eight-treasure porridge.