Eating in China
Leye Duck and Rice Bundles

Leye Duck and Rice Bundles

乐业柴粑鸭Lèyè cháibāyā

Leye chaibaba are savory bundles rather than a whole roast duck. Duck, pork and sticky-rice components are gathered into small bundles and fried; versions may also include duck blood rice cake, offal, tofu or sour vegetables.

Heat
Region
Guangxi
Type
Order in Chinese

At the table

How to enjoy it

Take a bundle apart into manageable bites. Ask which organs and rice-cake ingredients are included; confirm with the server whether any tie should be removed.

A useful check

Contains duck, pork and egg in this version; some versions also include blood, offal and soy. Ask about the full filling and seasoning.

How it may vary

The duck, pork and rice combination is the core described here. Additional meats, vegetables and aromatics vary by household; this is not one fixed recipe for all Leye cooks.

GET TO KNOW THE DISH

What goes into it?

Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.

The duck, pork and rice combination is the core described here. Additional meats, vegetables and aromatics vary by household; this is not one fixed recipe for all Leye cooks.

Recipes vary by restaurant.

How does it taste?

Rich and savory, with sweet, sour or chili notes depending on the seasoning.

Chili heat
Texture
Chewy meat and sticky rice with browned edges; offal can add a firmer bite.
How it’s made
Prepared strips are tied into bundles. This version dips the bundles in beaten egg and slowly pan-fries them until golden. Carrot and other additions vary.

The duck, pork and rice combination is the core described here. Additional meats, vegetables and aromatics vary by household; this is not one fixed recipe for all Leye cooks.

A CONNECTION TO PLACE

Origin & regional roots

Explore regional food

Associated with Guangxi.

About this regional connection

Guangxi: Supported local food association, not exclusive origin.

Ask if they have it first

ASK IF IT'S AVAILABLE

请问你们有乐业柴粑鸭吗?

Do you have this item?

A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ

Story & history

Bundles for family gatherings

In Leye's Gantian area, chaibaba is associated with festive family meals. The bundle shape recalls a small sheaf of firewood, giving the dish its name; local cooks vary the additions while retaining its bundled form.

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