Dragon Boat Festival: Must-Have Essentials Guide

Yau Brothers offers the essentials you need for celebrating the Dragon Boat Festival

Understanding the Dragon Boat Festival

You may be curious about the Dragon Boat Festival and what it entails. To simplify, this celebration is one of the most important festivals in China, with a history spanning over two thousand years. It honours the memory of Qu Yuan, an ancient Chinese poet. On this day, people typically enjoy Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and gather by the river to watch thrilling dragon boat races.

What is inside Zongzi and how does it taste?

Typically, zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) can be found in both savoury and sweet flavours, depending on the region. In general, Southerners in China tend to favour savoury zongzi. While the rest of the country often engages in debates over sweet vs savoury options, the southern provinces largely prefer salty, rich fillings packed with meat and umami flavours. In contrast, others lean towards red date or red bean paste flavours.

How to make Zongzi (Sticky rice dumpling)?

The key ingredients for Zongzi are bamboo leaves, beans, glutinous rice, salted egg yolk, meat and any other fillings that you personally enjoy. First, soak the glutinous rice and bamboo leaves for several hours, then place a spoonful of rice onto a leaf, add your chosen filling, and cover with more rice. Fold the leaf into a tight triangle, pillow or pyramid shape and tie securely with string. Boil the zongzi for several hours until the rice becomes soft and sticky. 

Where can I get the Zongzi (Sticky rice dumpling)

Yau Brothers offer all the essentials you need to prepare this delightful dish. You can find the required ingredients on our website or in-store. For a more convenient option, you can also choose our frozen, ready-made zongzi, simply cook them in boiling water for about 30 minutes.

Visit Us!
Join us at our physical store located in the YB Building on Princes Street, Southampton SO14 5RP. Our doors are open seven days a week:

Monday to Friday: 9am-6pm

Saturday: 9am-5.30pm

Sunday: 10.30am-5pm

Alternatively, feel free to browse our online store at www.yaubros.co.uk to create your very own authentic dishes!

Happy Dragon Boat Festival! (端午節快樂)