At the table
Use a spoon to enjoy the broth and toppings together. Let the hot soup cool a little; crisp toppings soften as they soak.
Toppings may contain peanuts, soy and sesame. Check the ingredients if you have allergies.
Lard is common; toppings may include tofu, peanuts, rice or starch noodles. The usual tea base is not chili-hot, but additions vary.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Lard is common; toppings may include tofu, peanuts, rice or starch noodles. The usual tea base is not chili-hot, but additions vary.
Typical ingredients
In some versions
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
The tea-based broth is served with varied savory additions. Seasonings and exact flavor vary by version.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- A tea-based liquid served as a soup with solid toppings; the topping mix and textures vary.
- How it’s made
- Tea leaves are fried in fat with aromatics, then simmered in water. Fried toppings are added when the soup is served.
Lard is common; toppings may include tofu, peanuts, rice or starch noodles. The usual tea base is not chili-hot, but additions vary.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Chongqing.
About this regional connection
Chongqing: CQ01/CQ02 official lists place the item in Youyang County; the municipal heritage map labels it 酉阳·土家油茶汤, and the 2024 Ministry of Culture route lists it among Youyang local snacks. This supports association, not exclusive origin or current seller availability.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有酉阳土家油茶汤吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
A Tujia welcome in a savory tea bowl
This account describes a tradition or story, rather than an established historical fact.
Youyang Tujia oil-tea soup is served as a savory, tea-like broth with crunchy fried grains and beans. Among Tujia communities in Youyang, offering a bowl to honored guests is a traditional gesture of welcome. The combination of a fragrant broth and crisp additions makes this both a local snack and a sign of hospitality, rather than simply a cup of tea.