Xue Xi bit one side of a mouse-shaped dumpling, dipped it generously in the fragrant vinegar on her plate, then opened her mouth wide and popped it in. She chewed happily, her cheeks puffing up like a little hamster's.
The light in her eyes grew brighter. Xue Xi gripped her chopsticks. "This is so good! These are the most delicious dumplings I've ever had."
Dumplings and vinegar had been a time-honored pairing since ancient times. Once wrapped in dough, the filling developed a distinctive aroma, and the acidity of the vinegar brought it out more clearly. What's more, the dumpling wrappers were fragrant and crisp; dipped in vinegar, their aroma mingled with its tartness, leaving a lingering taste. Vinegar enhanced the flavor of dumplings, making them even more delicious.
The well-brewed fragrant vinegar cut through the richness of the meat filling, making each bite more refreshing. Its ability to bring out the savory flavor also made the dumplings taste fuller and richer. Together, the two had a synergistic effect: one plus one was greater than two.
Bafen, who had finished his meal, watched longingly as Xue Xi ate dumpling after dumpling. The vinegary scent wafting through the air made his salivary glands go into overdrive, and he couldn't help swallowing. "Miss Xue, could I get a plate of that food you're eating? It smells incredible!"
Xue Xi shook her head at once. "Dumplings don't have any special effects, so they're not on the restaurant's menu."
"Oh, I see." The eager anticipation on Bafen's face instantly turned to profound disappointment. Xue Xi couldn't stand seeing a diner look so dejected, especially in her own restaurant.
With a big, plump dumpling stuffed in her mouth, she struggled to swallow it before saying, "But now that I think about it, if I make