The soul of this dish lies in the rock ear lichen that grows on the cliffs of Tianzhushan. This rare wild fungus resembles black wood ear mushrooms, yet offers a thicker texture and a more delicate mountain fragrance. Simmered slowly with free-range chicken for hours, the earthy freshness of the rock ear lichen gradually melts into the rich aroma of the broth. The moment the clay pot lid is lifted, steam billows upward like mountain mist. The chicken glows golden, the rock ear lichen turns glossy and tender, and the clear broth carries remarkable depth of flavor. For the people of the mountains, this is one of the highest forms of hospitality — and for many who grew up here, a taste deeply tied to homesickness and memory.

I. Core Ingredients

· Main ingredients: Tianzhushan free-range chicken,Tianzhushan wild rock ear lichen, and a coarse clay pot for charcoal-fire cooking.Tianzhushan

· Aromatics: Ginger slices and goji berries, with Tianzhushan toasted rice as an optional accompaniment to add aroma and balance the richness.

· Seasoning: Salt, used sparingly so as not to mask the ingredients’ natural flavors.

II. Key Cooking Techniques

Soak and rehydrate the rock ear lichen, then rinse thoroughly to remove any grit. Cut the free-range chicken into pieces and blanch to remove any unwanted odor. Place all the ingredients in the coarse clay pot, add enough mountain spring water, and slow-stew over charcoal for four hours. The gentle, steady heat helps preserve the ingredients’ natural flavors, allowing the clean, moistening quality of the mountain rock ear lichen to mingle fully with the mellow richness of the free-range old hen. Before serving, season lightly with salt and add goji berries. It may also be served with toasted rice.

III. Flavor and Texture

The broth is clear and light, yet deeply savory, with a mellow richness and a gentle sweetness that lingers. The chicken becomes fall-off-the-bone tender without turning dry or stringy, while the rock ear lichen stays smooth, crisp, and tender, soaking up the rich chicken juices. With only minimal seasoning, the dish highlights the pure mountain freshness of its ingredients. Each warm sip is soothing and restorative, offering gentle nourishment without feeling heavy. A refined Tianzhushan specialty, it is especially suited to autumn and winter, offering warmth, comfort, and everyday nourishment.