A Dongxiang family having lunch, 1862. [Photo/ China Photographers Association]

Dongxiang ethnic group

Inhabiting Gansu province, Dongxiang people derive their living mainly from agriculture and stockbreeding, especially sheep. Nearly every family has grind stone to grind yam which is most popular food in Dongxiang daily life with Barley and Mutton also being staples.

Dongxiang people enjoy drinking tea. When entertaining, guests will very likely be greeted by the senior member of the household and presented dainty tea with sugar candy. They do not eat the meat of pig, dog, horse, mule, and donkey, nor animal's blood, so do not joke about food.