Linzi Chaogao are stamped with peach patterns. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The Jiangsu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism recently released the fifth list of representative intangible cultural heritage protection units. Linzi Chaogao, a type of steamed rice cake from Rugao, made the list, marking an important recognition for this traditional craft with nearly 300 years of history.

An employee makes Linzi Chaogao in Baipu town, Rugao, Nantong. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Linzi Chaogao is made from glutinous rice and polished round-grained rice. The finely ground flour is mixed with white sugar and osmanthus flowers, shaped into round cakes, and then steamed. Once out of the steamer, the cakes are stamped with red patterns symbolizing joy and good fortune.

Wang Jianmin, the fourth-generation inheritor of the craft, explained that the cake can be eaten directly after steaming, or it can be cooled and later reheated by steaming. Additionally, it can be mashed into a porridge, suitable for both infants or elderly.

While retaining traditional techniques, the craft has evolved by incorporating new flavors such as cheese and nuts, appealing to a broader range of consumers. "For the Qingming Festival, we make traditional green rice cakes. Before the college entrance exams and high school entrance exams, we offer 'Top Scholar Cakes'. During the Double Ninth Festival, we make cakes to give to the elderly in nursing homes for free," said Wang Jiacheng, the fifth-generation inheritor of the craft.