Qingheyuan
Time-Honored BrandQingheyuan · Shanxi · Founded
Qingheyuan, a time-honored brand in Taiyuan, Shanxi, is renowned for its halal cuisine, especially Tounao (brain stew) and Shaomai (steamed dumplings). With a history dating back to the Qing Dynasty, it embodies rich culinary culture and is a symbol of Taiyuan's food heritage.
Brand Story
Founded in the Qing Dynasty (exact year unknown), Qingheyuan's name is said to originate from the late Ming and early Qing period. The famous scholar Fu Shan, to express his anti-Qing sentiments, gave the recipe for 'Eight Treasures Soup' (a medicinal dish) to a Muslim restaurant in Taiyuan's Nancang Lane. The owner named the restaurant 'Qingheyuan', symbolizing 'Qing' (purity) to dispel foreign influence, 'He' (harmony) to unite all, and 'Yuan' (origin) for restoration. Over generations, Qingheyuan became famous for Tounao, Maohe (hollow baked pastries), and Shaomai, becoming a vital part of Taiyuan's food culture. Its Tounao, made with select ingredients and a rich broth, is both delicious and nourishing, loved by locals. Qingheyuan bears witness to the prosperity of Shanxi merchants and ethnic integration, its skills and stories passed down orally, making it a unique cultural icon among China's time-honored brands.
“清和元，头脑香，百年传承味更长[待核]”
Signature Products
A traditional Taiyuan delicacy made with lamb, astragalus, and yellow wine. Thick and savory, it warms the body and is nourishing. (20-40 RMB per bowl)
Thin-skinned dumplings with generous filling, shaped like pomegranates. Juicy and flavorful, best enjoyed with Tounao. (10-20 RMB per steamer)
Baked hollow pastry, crispy and light. Can be filled with meat or vegetables for a unique taste. (5-10 RMB each)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Shanxi（山西）
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Cultural Note
Qingheyuan's techniques blend halal cooking with traditional Chinese medicinal cuisine. The preparation of Tounao follows the tradition of 'preparing at the third watch, selling at the fifth', reflecting Taiyuan's early morning market culture. Its inheritance relies on master-apprentice oral instruction, preserving traditional recipes and processes, making it a living fossil for studying Shanxi merchant cuisine and ethnic fusion.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Qingheyuan founded?
Qingheyuan was founded in null, originating in Shanxi, Shanxi, primarily in the Dining field.
What is the signature product of Qingheyuan?
Its signature product is Tounao (Brain Stew). See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: