Zongzi Across Borders: Marcus's Story
Zongzi Across Borders: Marcus's Story
an illustrated story on food, family and heritage
When I asked people to share experiences with food that were close to their hearts, I never expected to hear such heartwarming stories from such a diverse group of people.
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Today I want to tell you Marcus's story.
Marcus fondly remembers making zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) with his grandmother to celebrate the summer solstice in Chinese culture.
As a first-generation American, gathering with family and friends to make these traditional Chinese dumplings, which require a lot of time and effort, was Marcus's way of showing his love and affection while also staying connected to his roots.
Zongzi varies across different parts of Asia, with each region adding its own unique twists and flavors.
Zongzi is typically savory and made with glutinous rice, filled with ingredients like pork belly, mung beans, and chestnuts, all wrapped in lotus leaves.
Zongzi is traditionally made and consumed during the Dragon Boat Festival, which falls on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar. The legend of zongzi is tied to Qu Yuan, a Chinese poet and minister who drowned himself in protest against corruption. Villagers, wanting to prevent fish from consuming his body, threw rice dumplings into the river.
Pretty cool, huh?
Since then, zongzi has been made to honor Qu Yuan's loyalty and to celebrate Chinese heritage and culture.
To Marcus, zongzi is a poignant reminder of the love and connection he shares with his grandmother, as they gathered with friends and family to carry on this cherished tradition.
As an Indian-born immigrant living in the United States, zongzi represents fragments of tradition that communities pass down through generations—to honor those we've lost, cherish what matters most, and uphold community and love.
What unique food experiences do you have? Would you like to see them illustrated? If yes, submit below.
Hi, I am Anjana. I am an illustrator, designer and maker of many things. You can follow my journey here.