Punch: From third-rate anchor to top chef

Chapter 1735

Lin Yifei savored the sweet mash carefully, feeling its sweet and sour taste, and said with emotion: "This sweet mash is not only a delicacy, but also a cultural heritage. It allows us to feel the wisdom of the Qinghai people and their love for life."

As they walked, they saw a small shop with a signboard of "Dog Pee". This strange name aroused their curiosity. Zhang Yuedong smiled and said, "What is this 'Dog Pee'? It has such a strange name, could it be a delicacy related to dogs?" Li Xiao also shook his head, indicating that he didn't know.

So they decided to go into the store to find out what it was like. It turned out that "dog peeing" is a kind of pancake with Qinghai characteristics. It got its name because it is made by pouring oil from a small oil pot along the edge of the pan, which looks like a dog peeing. The boss enthusiastically introduced to them: "Our 'dog peeing' is made from a mixture of highland barley flour and wheat flour, plus fennel powder and rapeseed oil. It tastes very fragrant."

After hearing this, the three decided to order one to try. After a while, a portion of "Dog Pee" was served on the table. The pancake was golden in color, dotted with dots of tonka bean powder, and exuded an alluring aroma. Li Xiao picked up a pancake and put it in his mouth. The crust was crispy and delicious, and it made a "crackling" sound when bitten by the teeth. The aroma of tonka bean powder instantly spread in the mouth, rich and mellow, with a hint of sweetness. Zhang Yuedong also praised the taste:
"Although the name of this 'Dog Pee' is unpleasant, it tastes really good. It is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the flavor of cochinchinensis is very rich." Lin Yifei said with a smile: "Although the name is strange, it is also a major feature of Qinghai cuisine and it is very impressive."

In addition to these, they also tasted Qinghai specialties such as hand-pulled mutton, grilled mutton skewers, and yogurt. The hand-pulled mutton was tender and juicy, without the slightest smell of mutton, and it tasted delicious when paired with pepper, salt, and garlic; the grilled mutton skewers were sizzling with oil, fragrant, and sprinkled with cumin and chili powder, making people unable to stop eating;

The yogurt is thick, sweet and sour, and sprinkled with a layer of white sugar, which makes it sweet and delicious. Each dish allows them to experience the unique food culture and customs of Qinghai.

While tasting the food, they also talked with the diners and stall owners around them. From them, they learned more about the stories and cooking methods of Qinghai cuisine. A local uncle told them that the reason why Qinghai cuisine is unique is that the ingredients here are all natural and integrate the food culture of multiple ethnic groups.

For example, hand-pulled mutton is a traditional delicacy of the Mongolian and Tibetan peoples, while stuffed skin is a snack loved by both the Hui and Han peoples. Li Xiao said with emotion: "This trip to Qinghai not only allowed me to enjoy the beautiful scenery, but also to taste so many delicious foods. It was really worth it."

Zhang Yuedong also nodded in agreement: "Yes, these delicacies have given me a deeper understanding of Qinghai. I must recommend these delicacies to my fans when I return." Lin Yifei smiled and said: "This food tour made me feel the atmosphere of Qinghai's human life, which is really warm."

Before they knew it, it was already late at night. They left Mojia Street with satisfied smiles and full of memories. On the way back to the hotel, they were still savoring the food they had just tasted, looking forward to more surprises on tomorrow's journey.

After resting for a night in Xining, Li Xiao, Zhang Yuedong and Lin Yifei set out on their journey to Qinghai Lake with excitement.

Along the way, they admired the beautiful scenery through the car window. The rolling mountains in the distance set off the blue sky and white clouds, forming a magnificent picture. Zhang Yuedong pointed out the window excitedly and said, "Look, this scenery is so beautiful. It feels like walking through a painting."

Li Xiao also nodded in agreement, the camera in his hand kept flashing, wanting to record the beautiful scenery along the way. Lin Yifei quietly looked out the window, feeling the charm of nature, his heart full of expectations for Qinghai Lake.

As the car moved forward, the outline of Qinghai Lake gradually came into view. When they really stood on the shore of Qinghai Lake, they were stunned by the beautiful scenery in front of them. The vast lake surface sparkled under the sunshine, and the azure blue water seemed to merge with the sky, and it was hard to tell where the lake was and where the sky was.

The snow-capped mountains in the distance stood majestically, with the tops covered with white snow, shining silvery against the backdrop of the sun. Beside the lake was an endless grassland, covered with green grass and dotted with colorful wild flowers, as if covering the earth with a beautiful flower carpet. Herds of cattle and sheep grazed leisurely on the grassland, occasionally looking up at the lake in the distance, as if they were also attracted by the beautiful scenery.

Li Xiao couldn't help but sigh: "This is Qinghai Lake, it's more beautiful than I imagined, it's simply a paradise on earth!" Zhang Yuedong also said excitedly: "Yes, this scenery is so stunning, I must take more photos and show them off to my friends when I go back." Lin Yifei took a deep breath, feeling the fresh air, and said: "Here, my body and mind have been greatly relaxed. I really hope time can stay at this moment."

They strolled along the lake, the water gently lapping against the shore, making a pleasant sound, as if telling an ancient story. From time to time, a few water birds flew over the lake, skimming lightly across the water, stirring up ripples.

Li Xiao saw this scene and quickly raised his camera to capture this wonderful moment. Zhang Yuedong was attracted by the wild flowers by the lake. He squatted down and carefully admired these small flowers, feeling their delicate beauty. Lin Yifei walked to the lake, squatted down, and put his hand into the lake. The cool water made him feel very comfortable. He looked at the lake with a lot of emotion in his heart: "Qinghai Lake, you are a treasure given to us by nature. I will definitely cherish this opportunity to meet you."

At Qinghai Lake, they also experienced many interesting activities. Li Xiao and Lin Yifei rented two bicycles and rode along the road by the lake. The breeze gently brushed their cheeks, bringing the scent of lake water and the fragrance of flowers and plants, making them feel extremely comfortable. While riding, they admired the beautiful scenery along the way and stopped from time to time to take pictures.

Zhang Yuedong chose to take a boat trip on the lake. He sat at the bow, feeling the speed of the boat on the lake and admiring the surrounding scenery. The lake was sparkling, and the sun shone on the lake, reflecting golden light, making him feel as if he was in a golden world. He took out his mobile phone and kept taking pictures of the beautiful scenery around him, wanting to record these beautiful moments.

After the ride, they came to a restaurant by the lake to taste the local food. The food here is mainly fresh lake food and beef and mutton, which is delicious and memorable. They ordered a dish of naked carp from Qinghai Lake (Huangyu). Although Huangyu is now protected, the Huangyu in the restaurant is supplied through legal channels.

The fish is tender, nutritious and melts in the mouth, which made them praise it highly. In addition, they also ordered hand-pulled mutton, grilled mutton skewers and other delicacies, accompanied by local barley wine, and ate with relish. Zhang Yuedong said while eating: "The food in Qinghai Lake is so delicious, especially the fish. I have never eaten such a delicious fish before." Li Xiao also smiled and said:
"Yes, this trip to Qinghai Lake not only allowed us to enjoy the beautiful scenery, but also to taste so many delicious foods. It was really worth it." Lin Yifei raised his glass and said, "Come on, let's toast to this wonderful trip!" The three of them raised their glasses and clinked them together, and laughter echoed in the restaurant.

After dinner, they came to a square by the lake to watch the local folk performance. Many tourists and local residents gathered in the square, and everyone was looking forward to the performance. After a while, the performance officially began. The actors dressed in gorgeous national costumes, sang and danced, showing everyone the folk culture of Qinghai. There was a cheerful Tibetan dance, the dancers were agile and graceful, and the colorful silk in their hands flew in the air, like a series of gorgeous rainbows; there was a melodious Mongolian long tune, and the singers' singing was loud and clear,

It seemed to penetrate the clouds, allowing people to feel the vastness and magnificence of the grassland; there were also witty folk skits, and the actors' humorous performances drew bursts of laughter from the audience, pushing the atmosphere to a climax. Li Xiao, Zhang Yuedong and Lin Yifei were deeply attracted by these wonderful performances. They watched the actors on the stage intently and applauded from time to time. Zhang Yuedong said excitedly: "These performances are so wonderful, which gave me a deeper understanding of Qinghai's folk culture."

Li Xiao also nodded in agreement: "Yes, these performances are not only beautiful, but also let us feel the enthusiasm and love of life of the local people." Lin Yifei said with emotion: "This trip is really rewarding. Not only did we see beautiful scenery and eat delicious food, but we also enjoyed such wonderful folk performances. It was really worth the trip."

After the performance, they went to a nearby specialty store to buy local specialties. The specialty in the store is dazzling, including exquisite Tibetan carpets with bright colors and exquisite patterns. Every stitch and thread contains the wisdom and hard work of the Tibetan people.
There is fragrant highland barley wine, brewed with traditional techniques, with a mellow taste and a long aftertaste; there is also nutritious yak jerky, which is firm and delicious, and is one of the specialties of Qinghai. Li Xiao picked a Tibetan carpet and prepared to take it home for his parents. He said:
"This Tibetan carpet is so beautiful. I believe my parents will like it." Zhang Yuedong bought several bottles of highland barley wine and some yak jerky. He smiled and said, "I will take these highland barley wine and yak jerky back for my friends to try, so that they can also feel the characteristics of Qinghai." Lin Yifei picked some small ornaments with Qinghai characteristics. He said, "These small ornaments are very commemorative. I will give them to my students so that they can also understand the culture of Qinghai."

During this day at Qinghai Lake, Li Xiao, Zhang Yuedong and Lin Yifei fully enjoyed the beauty of nature and the local customs.
They were overwhelmed by the beauty of Qinghai Lake, infected by the enthusiasm of the local people, and gained a deeper understanding and love for this land. When the sun set, they returned to Xining with full harvest and good memories, looking forward to the next encounter with Qinghai Lake.

After leaving Qinghai Lake, Li Xiao, Zhang Yuedong and Lin Yifei continued their journey to Qinghai. This time they came to HZTZ Autonomous County and walked into the mysterious Tu ethnic folk village.

The car slowly drove into the village, and what came into view were the unique Tujia Zhuangkuo courtyards. Most of these Zhuangkuo courtyards are quadrangle-shaped, consisting of Zhuangkuo walls, courtyards, house buildings and Zhuangkuo gates. The Zhuangkuo walls are tall and thick, built with adobe, and covered with a layer of fine yellow mud, which is both solid and simple. White pebbles are placed at the four corners of the wall, shining with a unique light under the sunlight.

Most of the gates are single-leaf, with a small gatehouse on top. There are exquisite carvings on them, including lifelike animals and gorgeous flowers. Every detail shows the wisdom and exquisite craftsmanship of the Tu people. Li Xiao was deeply attracted by the architectural style in front of him. He kept pressing the shutter of his camera, wanting to record these unique buildings one by one. "This Tu ethnic architecture is really unique, different from what I have seen before, full of strong ethnic customs."

Li Xiao said excitedly. Zhang Yuedong also nodded in agreement: "Yes, just looking at this building, you can feel the profound cultural heritage of this nation. I really look forward to more surprises in the future." Lin Yifei carefully observed everything around him and added: "These buildings are not only unique in appearance, but also contain the life wisdom of the Tu people. For example, this thick village wall can not only play a defensive role, but also resist the severe cold in winter."

They strolled along the paths of the village. The houses on the roadside were scattered around, and various flowers and trees were planted in the courtyards. It was summer, and the flowers were in full bloom, colorful, adding a touch of vitality and vigor to this quaint village.

Occasionally, a few chickens strolled leisurely on the roadside. When they saw them coming, they were not panicked, but just tilted their heads and looked at them curiously. In the distance, several Tu women were busy in the yard. They were wearing colorful traditional Tu costumes with exquisite patterns embroidered on their clothes. Under the reflection of the sun, they looked particularly beautiful. Zhang Yuedong's eyes lit up when he saw this scene, and he hurried over to greet them. "Hello, can we visit your yard?"

Zhang Yuedong asked politely. The Tu women smiled warmly and nodded to express their welcome. "Of course, you are welcome to visit our home." One of the women said. At the warm invitation of the women, they walked into the yard. There were some farm tools and a stone stove with a big pot on it and some firewood piled next to it, full of life. The Tu women introduced them to the living customs and traditional handicrafts of the Tu people, such as the Tu embroidery, which has a history of more than a thousand years and is a "compulsory course" for Tu women throughout their lives.