Laba Porridge Guide
Traditional Eight Treasure Porridge (八宝粥) for Laba Festival. The dish that marks the countdown to Spring Festival.
What is Laba Porridge?
Laba porridge (八宝粥) is a traditional rice porridge made with eight or more ingredients. It's eaten on the 8th day of the 12th lunar month to celebrate Laba Festival.
How to Order
Lái yì wǎn là bā zhōu - I want a bowl of laba porridge
History
Laba Festival commemorates Buddha's enlightenment. According to legend, Buddha achieved enlightenment after fasting for 49 days, and his disciples fed him rice porridge. This tradition has been celebrated for over 1,500 years.
Traditional Ingredients
Rice
大米
Red Beans
红豆
Lotus Seeds
莲子
Dried Longan
桂圆
Walnuts
核桃
Peanuts
花生
Dates
红枣
Goji Berries
枸杞
How to Make
Soak all ingredients in water for 2-3 hours
Add rice and ingredients to a pot with water
Bring to boil, then simmer for 1-2 hours
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
Add rock sugar to taste when porridge is nearly done
Serve warm, optionally with honey or dried fruit
Beginning of Spring Festival
Laba Festival marks the start of the New Year celebration
After Laba Festival, families begin intensive preparations for Spring Festival: cleaning, buying new clothes, preparing special foods, and planning family reunions. The porridge represents abundance and blessings for the coming year.