Have You Eaten Yet?

Chinese food is a way of life.  Although China is a country that is developing it's economic and political stability, the majority of the population is still agricultural and remembers a time when famine existed.  Food is a staple of livelihood and meals (outside of the big cities) are almost always communal.  Hence, a common greeting when meeting someone after "how are you" is..."have you eaten yet?"

Below are some dumplings that I made at Ms. Geng's, a local English teacher's home. She made everything from scratch, even the reed mat that the dumplings are to be steamed on.  In her town, domestic skills are still standard for most women in addition to career skills to be competitive.

Although there is a market for a lot of packaged food and drinks, food made from scratch is still very important. Below is the scene at TESCO, one of the large chain supermarkets from Britain.  I thought it had a street market vibe albeit being indoors.

Below fresh peanut and sesame oil is made on the spot for customers.

Noodles, fried bread, and pastries are also all made behind the counter at the store daily.

Finally my favorite are the little steamed buns filled with sweet bean paste in the shapes of white peaches, pigs, and maybe a bear.