At the table
Eat with a spoon or chopsticks, taking rice, peas and ham together. Ask about portion size before ordering it as a shared staple.
The ham version contains pork and is neither vegetarian nor vegan. Sticky rice is chewy; take manageable bites.
Some preparations use cured pork instead of ham. Seasoning and the amount of meat vary.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Some preparations use cured pork instead of ham. Seasoning and the amount of meat vary.
Typical ingredients
In some versions
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Savory, with sweet peas and smoky cured meat.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Sticky rice, tender peas and chewy ham.
- How it’s made
- Peas, sticky rice and ham are briefly stir-fried, then simmered with water until the rice is cooked.
Some preparations use cured pork instead of ham. Seasoning and the amount of meat vary.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Zhejiang.
About this regional connection
Zhejiang: Supported local food association, not exclusive origin.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有麦豆饭吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
What maidou means in Songyang
In Songyang, fresh peas are known locally as maidou. This dish brings their sweetness together with sticky rice and the savory aroma of cured meat; it is a rice dish, not a wheat dish.