Ai Wo Wo, a traditional Muslim snack in Beijing, is known for its distinctive qualities: “pure white color, round shape, sticky texture, and sweet, fragrant taste,” as described in The Beijing Traditional Culture Guide. While it began as a simple street snack, Ai Wo Wo eventually gained prestige as a renowned delicacy within the capital, starting in the Ming Dynasty.
Chuxiu Palace, the royal residence within the Forbidden City, closely ties Ai Wo Wo’s popularity. According to old Beijing folklore, an imperial eunuch recounted that emperors and favored consorts residing in Chuxiu Palace developed a fondness for Ai Wo Wo. With their daily diet filled with rich delicacies, they sought something simpler yet delightful. One day, a palace chef of Hui (Muslim) heritage brought some of this treat from his home, and a palace attendant, intrigued, took a taste. She brought some to the emperor and empress, who were equally enthralled by its sweet, fragrant flavor and its soft, chewy texture.
Ai Wo Wo quickly became a staple for the royals, and the emperor praised it for its snowy appearance and sweet aroma. Word of this imperial favorite spread beyond the palace walls, elevating its status among Beijing’s street foods. From the Ming Dynasty onward, Ai Wo Wo became known as “Imperial Ai Wo Wo” and became highly prized, symbolizing an exquisite, beloved Muslim snack within Beijing.
As The Beijing Traditional Culture Guide notes: “Ai Wo Wo, a sweet, snowy white, ball-shaped Muslim treat, was a favorite of the Ming Dynasty’s royals and has since become a cherished snack among Beijing locals.”
Phoenix Lee https://chinese-tradition.com/ai-wo-wo-beijings-beloved-imperial-muslim-treat.html