The spicy strip that sparked some spicy debates! If you've seen rural Chinese shop videos on YouTube or TikTok, this is something you would've come across. Just like many of us are curious to know whether Kimchi is Korean or Chinese, we are also curious about this strange snack.
La Tiao is an authentic Chinese snack, known also as Chinese gluten strips, believed to have originated in the Hunan province. Although the exact period is unknown, research shows that it's pretty recent. As recent as 1985. However, the snack earned its glory during the 1998 flood in Hunan province that brought in famine for thousands of people.
Trying to cook fresh food and distribute it among flood victims was as futile as attempting to light a fire underwater. Not even a Zongzi could've saved the situation. The lack of staple foods, like grain, left people devastated and hungry. In response, local instant food manufacturers decided to step in and come up with a solution. They processed gluten and added delicious flavours to create a snack that could fill one's tummy and provide the much-needed energy to survive those tough days. All thanks to the Chinese gluten snack - Latiao.
Who would've thought that this survival snack - La Tiao, would rise to be one of China's beloved treats? The story becomes more intriguing when this binge bite starts making people seriously ill, and it is not just one illness.
Before we touch that point, let's dissect this snack and its story.
What is Chinese La Tiao made of?
La Tiao is a spicy, chewy strip made of wheat flour, spicy oil, salt, sugar, flavour additives and preservatives. These strips are purely gluten and taste like preserved, pulled beef. It has a texture somewhat similar to that of chewy churros, but the taste is quite different. Unique - one would say.
In Chinese, 'La' means Spicy, and 'Tiao' means Strip. It's a pretty straightforward term for a gluten snack. So the meaning of La Tiao (辣 条) is Spicy Strip.
La Tiao wasn't just a snack; the famous Chinese gluten strip became a lifesaver for those who couldn't afford meats. No matter what dish they paired it with, it added a delightful burst of flavour, making every bite delicious.
La Tiao can be made with wheat flour or rice flour. As it is commercially produced using wheat flour, the ones you will find in stores are not gluten-free. If you're allergic to gluten, you can specifically look for rice flour La Tiao, which might be challenging outside mainland China.
Is La Tiao Vegan?
Yes, La Tiao is generally a Vegan snack as it only contains wheat flour, water, sugar and spicy oils, which are made of palm oil and chillies. However, in some cases, manufacturers add meat flavours to enhance the taste of the strip. It would merely be just identical flavours. However some manufacturers would go to the extent of adding lard to enhance the flavour. So variations contain different ingredients. It's up to you to choose the one that doesn't contain meat.
To be on the safer side, pick Wei Long's spicy La Tiao, which is purely vegetarian. I tried it, and let me tell you, It tastes good.
Is La Tiao Halal?
Store-bought La Tiao is not Halal. Weilong La Tiao to be specific, does not have a halal certification (they are the biggest manufacturers). However, if you really want to try this Chinese gluten snack, you can look for a vegetarian option. Or you can try making it at home, but the right spice ratio is a little difficult to achieve. But do give it a try!
Why is La Tiao Controversial
Can you believe that in 2016, La Tiao had sales accounting of almost USD 8.8 billion in China? It was super famous, but it all came to an abrupt still in 2019 when several illnesses were reported after consuming this delicious Chinese gluten strip. Some had severe diarrhoea, gastrointestinal issues and allergies.
When authorities investigated one of the major La Tiao producers in Henan, they were shocked to discover the complete absence of any standards or policies. It was revealed that the company had been sourcing cheap ingredients and cooking the strips in an unhygienic environment. To double the issue, they also used sorbic acid and dehydroacetic acid, which not sit well with wheat flour, making matters even worse.
Soon production around the country halted abruptly until food standards were put in place. La Tiao is now available around China and in other countries and it's much healthier than before.
Is Weilong Latiao Safe to Eat?
Despite the accusations received a decade back, Weilong Latiao has come a long way in 2024. They have systemized their manufacturing and received various certifications as well. I tried Weilong Latiao and had no unpleasant experience.
How to Eat La Tiao?
You can enjoy it as a snack, just like a bag of Cheetos, or as a side dish with your Buldak ramen, rice, or even bao buns. It's quite versatile. Just remember to eat it in moderation to avoid stomach burns.
Is La Tiao healthy?
Simply put, it's high in sodium, sugar and fat. If you're looking to gain some calories, eating La Tiao won't be an issue. 15g of La Tiao carries 65 calories. We wouldn't say it's healthy, but it's not deadly either. Just make sure to use Google Translate and read the ingredients on the back of the pack. if it says sorbic acid or dehydroacetic acid, you might want to avoid that.
All in all, for a foodie adventurer, giving La Tiao a try won't harm. Just like I did, I surely would not buy it again.
Is La Tiao Tasty?
Well, one might say it's delicious, but if I were to rank it out of 10, I'd give it a 5 from the taste perspective. Some even say it tastes like a sponge soaked in oil and spice. La Tiao is not really tasty compared to churros and fries, but it doesn't make you puke, unlike the smell of fermented bamboo shoots pickled Chinese style. It's an ideal 'try-out-once' snack because you may never find a similar delicacy anywhere else in the world.
If you don't like authentic Chinese food (NOT your neighbourhood Chinese takeout spot), or Mala spice flavours, you may not like that odd pungent smell. But who knows, you may love it once you give it a try.
Where can I find La Tiao?
While La Tiao is readily accessible in China, it can be challenging to find in other countries. If you happen to have a Chinatown nearby, it's worth a visit to inquire about La Tiao. Alternatively, you can try your luck at the nearest Asian store and ask for this unique snack.
If none of the above methods works for you, you can place your La Tiao order online. You'll be paying a slightly higher price, but you'll get it in good condition.
In Conclusion;
La Tiao stands as a testament to the uniqueness and diversity of Chinese cuisine. From its origins as a survival snack during a devastating flood to its rise as a beloved treat, it's one that truly got me hooked.
If you've tried La Tiao before, tell us what you think about it in the comments!