Luoyang water banquet started in the Tang Dynasty, and has a history of more than 1, years. It is one of the oldest famous banquets preserved in China.
The water mat originated in Luoyang, which is directly related to its geographical climate. Luoyang is surrounded by mountains, with little rain and dryness. In ancient times, the weather was cold and no fruit was produced. Therefore, folk meals mostly used soups, and they liked hot and sour to resist the dry and cold. People here are used to using locally produced starch, lotus seeds, yam, radish, cabbage, etc. to make an economical banquet with rich soup. Even princes and nobles are used to cooking the main and non-staple foods together. Over time, they have gradually created a Luoyang water mat with rich local characteristics, and gradually formed a flavor of "sour and spicy, refreshing and delicious".
According to legend, Yuan Tiangang watched the celestial phenomena at night in his early years, knowing that Wu Zetian would become an emperor in the future, but the secret could not be revealed, so he designed this grand banquet, which predicted the future of Wu Zetian in 24 years. Every dish is full of water, which means that Wu Zetian comes naturally; Dry and thin, refers to Wu Zetian's 24-year relationship (thin) The menu of "Luoyang Water Mat" is the first eight dishes (cold dishes), four town tables, eight big pieces, four finishing touches, and twenty-four dishes * * *, which coincides with the twenty-four years that Wu Zetian took charge of state affairs in the first year of Yonglong and died in the first year of Shenlong in Luoyang Shangyang Palace.
the so-called "water mat" has two meanings: first, all hot dishes have soup-soup and water; Second, after eating a hot dish, remove it and then serve it again, constantly updating it like running water.
Luoyang people regard the water mat as the first place in all kinds of banquets to entertain visitors from afar. It is not only a popular table in grand banquets, but also a ceremonial occasion such as civil weddings, funerals, birthdays and festivals. People also use water seats to entertain their close relatives and friends, and people affectionately call it "March 8 Table". As a traditional food style, it is also known as the three wonders of Luoyang, together with the traditional peony flower show and the ancient Longmen Grottoes. It is known as the three unique styles of the ancient capital Luoyang and has become the pride of Luoyang people.