Qingtuan, or green rice balls. [Photo/WeChat account: isuzhou365]

Qingtuan (Green rice ball)

Qingtuan, or green rice balls, is a traditional snack made from wormwood juice and glutinous rice powder. There was originally only one kind of filling – red bean paste –but now there are many flavors, including sesame, date paste, salted duck egg yolk and meat floss, and purple sweet potato.

Fermented rice cakes. [Photo/WeChat account: isuzhou365]

Fermented rice cake

Fermented rice cake looks similar to Suzhou-style moon cake and has a soft texture. Red bean paste and rose are two common fillings. Lard and pine nuts are also added to enrich the flavor. The cake will turn golden and crispy after being fried or baked and its filling is fresh, sweet, and tender.