Eating in China
Generated illustration of plain molded Zhongshan mung-bean and kernel biscuits, one broken to show the crumb.

Zhongshan xingren biscuits

中山杏仁饼Zhōngshān xìngrén bǐng

Crumbly mung-bean and kernel biscuits

A small molded biscuit associated with Zhongshan. This plain version combines mung-bean flour, sugar, lard, sweet apricot kernels and Chinese black olive kernels; it has no separate filling.

Heat
Region
Guangdong
Type
Sweets
Order in Chinese

At the table

How to enjoy it

Break gently over a plate and take small bites; crumbs fall easily. No wrapper or hard shell needs removing.

A useful check

This version contains lard and edible kernels, so it is not vegetarian or vegan. Check the label for ingredients and allergens.

GET TO KNOW THE DISH

What goes into it?

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

Other versions may have pork filling or different kernels. The name does not establish the ingredients of every product.

Recipes vary by restaurant.

How does it taste?

Sweet and nutty, with a toasted-bean aroma.

Chili heat
Texture
Dry, fine and crumbly rather than chewy.
How it’s made
Ground toasted kernels are mixed with sugar, lard, water and mung-bean flour, pressed into molds and baked.

Other versions may have pork filling or different kernels. The name does not establish the ingredients of every product.

A CONNECTION TO PLACE

Origin & regional roots

Explore regional food

Associated with Guangdong.

About this regional connection

Guangdong: Zhongshan; book and municipal craft documentation.

Ask if they have it first

ASK IF IT'S AVAILABLE

请问你们有中山杏仁饼吗?

Do you have this item?

A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ

Story & history

Zhongshan’s molded biscuits

This account describes a tradition or story, rather than an established historical fact.

Molding and baking turn a loose bean-flour mixture into a compact, crumbly sweet. Plain and filled versions are part of the local biscuit tradition.

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