At the table
Lift one piece with chopsticks and briefly dip it in the provided cool drinking water to set the sugar. Let the center cool further before biting; share while the pieces still separate.
Ask for dipping water and confirm sesame and frying oil. The sugar and potato center can be very hot.
This sesame-topped version uses plant oil and no batter. Some versions omit sesame or use a starch coating; ask before relying on ingredient exclusions.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
This sesame-topped version uses plant oil and no batter. Some versions omit sesame or use a starch coating; ask before relying on ingredient exclusions.
Typical ingredients
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Sweet caramel and sweet potato with sesame aroma.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Thin crisp sugar shell over soft sweet potato; warm caramel pulls into threads.
- How it’s made
- Fry peeled sweet-potato chunks in plant oil until cooked. Melt white sugar with a little plant oil, toss the hot chunks in the caramel and finish with white sesame.
This sesame-topped version uses plant oil and no batter. Some versions omit sesame or use a starch coating; ask before relying on ingredient exclusions.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Liaoning.
About this regional connection
Liaoning: Local culinary association; not a claim of exclusive origin.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有拔丝地瓜吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
Sugar-thread sweet potatoes
The name refers to pulling fine sugar threads. This sweet dish is served at family meals and banquets in northeastern China and beyond, including Liaoning.