The Su Wa Wa Experience

The Su Wa Wa Experience

Gentle Reader,

As we traveled around China, we were once again reminded that each region, each town, has a food specialty.  To gain a true flavor of the place, and to feel very much like a local, we always tried the local specialties.

Our students were surprised to discover that we had not yet experienced Su Wa Wa.  So, they remedied that lack by taking us out for Su Wa Wa.  The first time was with Jack, one of Scott's students.  The second time was with Vivi, Janya, and Lydia, my students from 2011.

Su Wa Wa is a dish that is apparently mostly enjoyed by younger folks in Guizhou Province.  The older folks, they tell us, still like the traditional communal dishes.  Su Wa Was is served on a very large tray, covered with many smaller bowls.  The bowls are filled and refilled with all sorts of vegetables.  A most colorful palate.  Then, one places selected veggies onto a small rice pancake, in the palm of one's hand.  Then, one folds up the pancake, like a baby in a bundle.  Our friends demonstrated proper bundling.  Then, you ladle in a spoonful of "la" -- very hot sauce.  If one tries to devour the Su Wa Wa in two or three bites, sauce will drip down your arm and into your lap.  So, proper technique is to devour the veggie pancake in one bite, and then scoop in one more ladle of hot sauce as you are chewing.  Delicious!!!

Thanks to Jack, Vivi, Janya, and Lydia for the Su Wa Wa Experience!!!!

By the way, when in Guiyang, Vivi ordered pig brain to accompany the Su Wa Wa.  Women Food Warriors, indeed!!!!