Wantuo (Buckwheat Noodle Cake)

Wantuo is made by diluting buckwheat flour into a thin batter, seasoning with salt, steaming in small bowls, then unmoulding, slicing and dressing with Shanxi vinegar, chilli oil and garlic paste.

Wantuo originated in the Jinzhong region and was widely popular by the Ming and Qing dynasties; its filling nature and low cost made it a favourite of working people and it is now one of Pingyao's most distinctive street foods.

Commonly found at stalls in the ancient city, served in bowls or paper containers and eaten with bamboo skewers, paired with Shanxi vinegar and chilli oil.

The light bitter-fresh aroma of buckwheat is complemented by the tang of aged Shanxi vinegar, yielding a smooth, springy texture with a lingering aftertaste.