A Challenge for Your Palate—Fish Mint

◎貴州省遵義市綏陽縣綏陽中學 陳輔炫 指導教師：高菲菲

Every outsider who visits Zunyi is likely to meet this white root-like object,both at street food stalls and dining tables,producing a peculiar,fishy smell.They often wonder,“What exactly is this?” This is a unique dish from Zunyi―zhe’ergen(折耳根),also known as fish mint(魚腥草）,which is considered “dark cuisine” by many outsiders.

You may not have heard ofzhe’ergen,but you’ve certainly heard of fish mint.The locals in Guizhou prefer calling itzhe’ergen.Fish mint has both medicinal and nutritional values.It can clear heat,reduce infection,promote healing,and fight viruses.At the same time,it is a nutritious vegetable,rich in protein,fat,and carbohydrates(碳水化合物),with the whole plant being edible.Guizhou people use it as a vegetable or a condiment(佐料),making it a unique dish on local dining tables.Fish mint with pickled cabbage(折耳根拌酸菜),fish mint stir-fried with smoked meat(折耳根炒臘肉),and fish mint with dipping sauce(折耳根蘸水) are all common ways of preparation.There are also newly developed dishes like fish mint yogurt and fish mint milk tea,demonstrating the Guizhou people’s love for this plant.

So,why do Guizhou people love fish mint? Firstly,it’s linked to the local climate.Guizhou is a mountainous region with constant dampness and rainfall throughout the year.Eating fish mint can help to clear away dampness,heat and phlegm(痰) in their bodies.Secondly,Guizhou people love their chili peppers,which can lead to an excess of “heat” in their bodies.Fish mint helps to balance the spiciness and “cool down” the body.Therefore,fish mint and chili peppers make a perfect match.

Just like chili peppers,fish mint has long won the hearts and stomachs of the people of Guizhou and become deeply rooted in their memories.If you come to Zunyi,don’t forget to give it a try!