siu3 hau2 zou2笑口棗笑口枣
Jyutpingsiu3 hau2 zou2
Yalesiu háu jóu
Definition
Deep-fried sesame cookie balls; a round, sweet Cantonese pastry snack.
colloquialfoodfestival
How it's used
The name literally translates to laughing mouth date, referring to the cracks that appear on the surface of the dough during frying, which resemble a smiling mouth. These are a quintessential snack during the Lunar New Year, symbolizing happiness and laughter for the coming year. They are typically hard and crunchy, distinct from softer fried dough treats.
Measure word
nap1粒nāpExamples
We definitely buy sesame balls to eat at home during Chinese New Year.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse these with 煎堆, which are larger, hollow, and usually filled with red bean or lotus seed paste. 笑口棗 are small, solid, and do not contain filling.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
