In a vibrant culinary journey, Su Wu, an accomplished writer and curator based in Mexico City, shares her unique take on tang yuan. This dessert, traditionally enjoyed during the Lunar New Year, carries deep familial roots and a rich tapestry of cultural influences. Through her version of this beloved dish, Wu weaves together memories of her past with the flavors of her present, creating a delightful fusion that resonates across generations.

A Timeless Celebration of Unity and Flavor

The Significance of Tang Yuan

Tang yuan, a cherished dessert rooted in Chinese tradition, holds profound meaning for many families. The round shape symbolizes unity and togetherness, while the warm, sweet broth evokes a sense of clarity and renewal. For Su Wu, making tang yuan has become a meaningful ritual shared with her daughter, Isa. Each year, they gather around the kitchen, engaging in a practice that not only honors their heritage but also fosters a deeper connection between them.The history of tang yuan dates back centuries, evolving through different regions and eras. In Wu’s family, the recipe was passed down from her grandmother, who spent much of her life in Taiwan. Over time, each generation added its own twist, reflecting the changing dynamics of their lives. Wu’s interpretation of the dish is particularly special because it incorporates elements from various cultures she has encountered throughout her travels and experiences. By blending traditional ingredients with tropical fruits and flavors, she creates a truly unique version of this classic dessert.

Cultural Influences and Culinary Innovation

Wu’s approach to making tang yuan is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and innovation. Drawing inspiration from Vietnamese chè and Singaporean chendol, she introduces a tropical twist to the dish. These desserts, known for their use of fruits like lychee and mango, as well as coconut milk and pandan jelly, add a refreshing dimension to the otherwise familiar flavors of tang yuan.One of the most striking features of Wu’s tang yuan is the vibrant pink hue achieved by using beet juice to dye half of the dough. While alternatives such as pitaya or hibiscus tea can be used, the natural color adds both visual appeal and a subtle sweetness to the dumplings. Once formed, the balls are gently boiled until they float—a sure sign that they have reached perfection. This process is not only practical but also symbolic, representing the delicate balance between tradition and modernity.

A Symphony of Flavors and Textures

The base of Wu’s tang yuan is a ginger-infused syrup made with Chinese slab sugar, a gift from her parents. This ingredient adds depth and warmth to the dish, complementing the chewy texture of the glutinous rice dumplings. To enhance the flavor profile further, Wu incorporates goji berries, grass jelly, and sago, all of which contribute distinct textures and tastes. For fruit, she opts for papaya, a choice that pays homage to both Mexican cuisine and Southern Chinese traditions.Papaya, native to Mexico, brings a bright, fruity note to the dessert, while also nodding to Wu’s current home. Its inclusion in the dish reflects the seamless integration of local ingredients into traditional recipes, highlighting the adaptability and resilience of culinary practices. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that speaks to the interconnectedness of cultures and the fluid nature of tradition.

Tradition as a Living Story

For Wu, the act of preparing tang yuan is more than just cooking—it’s storytelling. Traditions, she believes, are not static but rather dynamic narratives shaped by personal experiences and collective memory. Her work as a curator has given her a unique perspective on how traditions evolve over time, influenced by new environments and encounters.In April, Wu will unveil an exhibition titled “You Stretched Diagonally Across It: Contemporary Tapestry” at Dallas Contemporary. Featuring works by 27 artists from around the world, the show explores the intersection of ancient techniques and contemporary expression. Just as textiles carry stories through their intricate patterns, so too do culinary traditions. Wu’s approach to tang yuan exemplifies this idea, showcasing how food can serve as a bridge between past and present, connecting people across time and space.