Eating in China
Generated guide illustration of Food-grade alkaline water; not a restaurant photograph.

Food-grade alkaline water

枧水Jiǎnshuǐ

A liquid alkaline ingredient used in small amounts in Chinese cooking and baking. It helps develop the colour of Cantonese mooncake crust.

Type
Sauces and seasonings

A CLOSER LOOK

How to recognize it

Sold as a culinary alkaline solution; check the food-use label rather than identifying it by appearance.

In the kitchen

Added to the syrup-and-oil dough for Cantonese mooncakes.

Potassium carbonate is a common component, and blends vary. This liquid ingredient is distinct from dry cooking alkali; concentrations are not interchangeable.

Ask about this ingredient

这道菜里有枧水吗?

Does this dish contain Food-grade alkaline water?

EATING IN CHINA · THE APP

Get the app

Discover local dishes, understand their ingredients and flavours, and choose what you’d like to try. Explore vegetarian, vegan and kid-friendly food ideas for your China trip.

Food guides, ingredients and trip planning are free.

See what’s in the app