Jiang Yingxiang grinds glutinous rice. [Photo/WeChat account: hafbwx]

There is a common belief that the most delicious food is hidden in plain sight. In the streets, alleys, and food markets, some foods might even bring back childhood memories.

In Lipu town, Hai'an, Nantong, Lipu liangtuan, or Lipu cold glutinous rice balls, made by 75-year-old Jiang Yingxiang are such a snack.

Jiang prepares to make cold glutinous rice balls. [Photo/WeChat account: hafbwx]

Jiang usually starts his day at 4 o'clock by preparing to make cold glutinous rice balls – grinding the well-soaked glutinous rice, mixing white sugar and water, steaming the rice flour for half an hour, and pounding the steamed mixture.

Jiang fills the dough with red bean paste. [Photo/WeChat account: hafbwx]

Then he cuts the dough into smaller chunks, fills them with red bean paste, rolls them around in the flour mixed with crushed sesame seeds and rice, and finally presses them flat.

Lipu cold glutinous rice balls made by Jiang Yingxiang. [Photo/WeChat account: hafbwx]

Although trendy flavors such as dried meat floss and taro paste are more popular, this doesn't bother Jiang. He said that he wants to preserve the taste for older people who want to enjoy snacks from their youth.

Lipu cold glutinous rice balls are a nostalgic part of Lipu town's history and are missed most by locals who work or study in other cities.