zi1 maa4 wu2芝麻糊
Jyutpingzi1 maa4 wu2
Yalejī màh wú
Definition
Black sesame soup; a sweet, paste-like Cantonese dessert made from black sesame seeds, glutinous rice, and sugar.
colloquialfooddim sum
How it's used
Often associated with traditional Cantonese dessert shops, this dish is prized for its smooth texture and rich, nutty aroma. It is frequently served warm, especially during colder months, and is sometimes mixed with walnut soup to create a marbled effect known as 鴛鴦糊.
Measure word
wun2碗wúnExamples
The black sesame soup at this dessert shop is very fragrant and smooth.
Related words
Common phrases
fragrant and smooth black sesame soup
hot black sesame soup
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 芝麻醬, which is a savory sesame paste used for noodles or dipping sauces rather than as a sweet dessert.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
