Specialties in Togtoh county

Togtoh county, located in the west of Hohhot in Inner Mongolia autonomous region, is famous for its specialties like Kaihe fish and red peppers.

Kaihe fish

Kaihe fish, which come out when the ice thaws on the Yellow River after being dormant most of the winter, is considered to be a delicacy.

The fish is commonly available from March to May every year.

Historical documents show that Kaihe fish was once offered as tribute to Chinese emperors Kangxi, Yongzheng and Qianlong in Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) because it's considered a rare delicacy.

Situated on the upper and middle reach of the Yellow River, Togtoh county boasts a geographic advantage in raising Kaihe fish.

According to the local tourism authority, the county can receive about 160,000 tourists from March and May each year.

Red pepper

Red peppers in Togtoh county, also known as "red lanterns", are rich in nutrients like Vitamin C and Vitamin A.

The peppers are known for a unique taste stemming from their traditional preparation method. The locals mash the dry peppers and stir them with oil extracted locally. Famous local dishes in the area like the stewed fish are usually seasoned with these peppers.

Colored millet

Using genetic modification, Togtoh colored millet, a rare variety of millet, has been produced with different colors like green, yellow, red and black.

Compared with common millet, Togtoh colored millet has a high nutritional value and is considered a healthy addition to daily life.

Scientific research shows that selenium-rich colored millet can help boost immunity and ward off various kinds of diseases.