Guokui (锅盔) is the traditional flour food favored by Shaanxi public. It used to be a gift presented by grandmother to grandson on his age of one month. Gradually, it developed into local convenience food. Guokui is round with a foot diam, 1 inch thickness and 2.5kg weight. The flour of guokui is kneaded with oil, so it can keep longer and is easy to carry. Guokui is popular for its dry, soft, white and fragrant.
The technique of Guokui could be traced back to Shang and Zhou Dynasties. it was said that guokuo was carried by King Wen of Zhou as army provisions when he crusaded against King Zhou of Shang. Up to now, in Xifu, Shaanxi, there is a kind of guokui named “Wenwang Guokui”.
Guokui got universal in Qin Dynasty, also made as army provisions. The guokui in Qin Dynasty was heavy and in large size, about 15-cm thick and 50-60 cm diametral. Qin soldiers carried guokui in a special way. They classed two guokui as a group, strung them with a cowhide line, then hung them before and back the breast. It was used as protective gear while in the war. Qin people was sure to carry guo kui when they were out.
Tradition has it that in Tang Dynasty numerous laborers were recruited to construct Qianling tomb. The work was onerous, but the laborers could not take deals on time. One of the laborers called Dong Wa dug a hole quietly, put the mixed flour in his helmet, burnt firewood under the helmet. After a while, he took the flour cake out. It tasted crisp and delicious.
He was very happy and told this method to others. Then news passed quickly from mouth to mouth, the making method of Qianling tomb guo kui came into being. After the reform and open, Qianlong attracts more and more visitors from all over the world. After the travel, they usually take several guo kui as gist to friends and relatives.
Add On: Steamed Mutton
Dumplings Feast
Biangbiang Noodles
Chinese Hamburger
Rice and Jujube Cake
Frid Pig Intestins
Xian Cold Noodles
Sophie

