"Raising geese is an operation inherited from our ancestors. Zhaiqiao is located in Jiangnan water town, close to Gehu Lake, with abundant water resources and superior geographical environment. It is a rare place to raise geese. " Speaking of the old goose, Feng Daoxing, the stationmaster of Zhaiqiao Town Agriculture and Forestry Station, added some pride. In the eyes of Zhaiqiao people, the old goose has always been their pride. [ 1]
Different from other geese, "Zhaiqiao Old Goose" has three main characteristics: "Old" is one of its characteristics. The older it is, the fresher it is and the more fragrant it is. Generally, it is best to breed for five years; Second, the breeding environment is good. Zhaiqiao geese are mainly free-range, and usually eat rice husk and natural feed by the lake, which is authentic green food; Third, the varieties have their own characteristics, all of which are Taihu geese. Although the individual is not big, it has a high spawning rate and excellent varieties. [ 1]
Raising geese has been the habit of Zhaiqiao people for many years, and sending geese is the custom of Zhaiqiao people. Every Dragon Boat Festival, people in Zhaiqiao always pick up a goose when visiting relatives and friends. At noon, the host will serve a large pot of steaming goose pot, eat fresh goose meat and drink delicious goose soup, as if enjoying the best food in the world. [ 1]
Although Zhaiqiao old goose breeding is famous, it was really known to outsiders in the 1990s. With the development of catering culture, the "old goose in Zhaiqiao" was unbearable and finally couldn't help jumping on the hotel table. First, local restaurants put up the brand of "Zhaiqiao Old Goose" to attract customers, and various famous roast goose chefs such as Shi Zhengxiang, Shi Meiqin and Wang Jianguo emerged. Word spread from mouth to mouth, and people around you were amazed. Later, some active businessmen went out of Zhaiqiao to open specialty stores in other places, and the biggest "magic weapon" to attract business was "Zhaiqiao Old Goose". [ 1]
After many years, "Zhaiqiao Old Goose" has gradually become a famous local dish, but there is still a long way to go to truly become a famous brand recognized by the public. From a local brand to a well-known brand, we need to explore its unique charm and carry it forward.