A CLOSER LOOK
How to recognize it
Leaves of Liquidambar formosana, commonly with three pointed lobes and finely toothed edges.
In the kitchen
The strained leaf extract colors glutinous rice dark or black in traditional five-color rice.
This is Chinese sweetgum, not an Acer maple. The leaves supply coloring extract rather than a salad garnish.
Ask about this ingredient
这道菜里有枫香叶吗？
Does this dish contain Chinese sweetgum leaves?
A few dishes to explore
These examples use this ingredient in typical or optional preparations. Open the dish to see the distinction; a restaurant’s recipe can differ.
