What is zongzi and should you have it with tea?

🎋 What Is Zongzi and Should You Have It With Tea?

What is zongzi and should you have it with tea? Short answer — yes, absolutely. Long answer — let’s dive into the delicious story of these sticky rice parcels and why they pair so beautifully with Chinese tea. 🍵

 🌕 Zongzi: A Tasty Tradition

Zongzi (粽子) is a sticky rice dumpling wrapped in bamboo leaves, traditionally eaten during the Dragon Boat Festival. It’s one of those foods that comes with a side of ancient legend — in this case, to honour the poet Qu Yuan, who drowned himself in protest over political corruption. Locals tossed rice into the river to feed his spirit (or distract fish). Boom: zongzi was born.

Fast-forward a few thousand years and zongzi is still going strong. There are sweet and savoury versions — stuffed with red bean, pork belly, mushrooms, salted duck egg yolks… you name it. Every region in China puts their own spin on it, and if you’re lucky enough to get a handmade one from a Chinese aunty? You’ve basically won the food lottery. 🏆

 🍵 Should You Pair Zongzi With Tea?

Absolutely. Zongzi is hearty, rich, and sticky. You need something warm, cleansing, and aromatic to balance it out — and that’s where traditional Chinese tea shines. Think of it like having wine with cheese, but more soulful and way less boozy.

 🫖 Best Tea Pairings For Zongzi

• Savoury Zongzi (Pork, Mushroom, Chestnut): Pair with Chinese black tea like Dianhong or cooked puer. These teas cut through the richness like a boss.
• Sweet Zongzi (Red Bean, Jujube): Match with white tea or a light oolong. It brings out the natural sweetness without making it cloying.

Bonus tip: use a smaller tea cup and steep multiple times. It’s not just about drinking — it’s about pacing, relaxing, and enjoying the rhythm of the experience.

 🧧 Cultural Pairing With Purpose

In Chinese tradition, food and tea aren’t just for flavour. They’re about harmony. Yin and yang. Cool and warm. Heavy and light. Zongzi is dense and warming, while tea brings flow and clarity — especially puer tea, which aids digestion. Grandma was right all along. 😉

Plus, sharing zongzi and tea during the festival is an act of togetherness. Families gather, eat, sip, and honour their ancestors — it’s not just a snack, it’s a moment.

 🛍️ Where to Get Zongzi and Tea in NZ?

If you’re in New Zealand, you’ll often find zongzi at Asian supermarkets around Dragon Boat Festival (usually June). Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, try making your own. Just remember: it takes time, patience, and a mountain of sticky rice.

As for the tea? That’s the easy part — grab a premium loose leaf from Chan Cha Tea and steep like you mean it.

 🌿 Final Thoughts

Zongzi and tea are a match made in Chinese heaven. One fills your belly, the other your spirit. Whether you’re celebrating the festival or just craving something comforting, don’t skip the tea. Trust us — your tastebuds (and your digestion) will thank you. Again, if you’re feeling really brave and want a fun challenge, go on – make your own!