Jiao Quan
焦圈 · Jiāo Quān
🌶
📍 Common
Jiao Quan are deep-fried rings of dough, similar to savory doughnuts but smaller, denser, and incredibly crisp. Each ring is about the size of a bracelet, with a golden-brown color and satisfying crunch. They're the classic pairing for douzhi — the sourness of the drink cuts through the oiliness of the fried pastry. Jiao Quan are also eaten on their own as a snack or crumbled into congee for texture.
📖 History
Jiao Quan have been a Beijing breakfast staple for centuries, mentioned in Qing Dynasty culinary texts. They were traditionally made by street vendors using a special twisting technique.
🍝 Where to eat it:
Available at douzhi shops like Yin San Dou Zhi. Also at Huguosi Temple snack chain stores across Beijing.
Available at douzhi shops like Yin San Dou Zhi. Also at Huguosi Temple snack chain stores across Beijing.