How to Choose the Fortune Cookies
Fortune Cookies: Things You Might Not Know
They're ubiquitous to the point where you might overlook them. Those crispy, subtly sweet treats that accompany the bill after a Chinese meal. Whether you indulge in them or not, cracking one open guarantees you a fortune, a piece of advice, fortunate numbers, or a new Chinese vocabulary word. However, behind the seemingly straightforward (though not entirely) dessert lies a intricate history. Here are some lesser-known facts about fortune cookies that we unveil for you.
The Origins
Made with flour, oil, sugar, and vanilla, fortune cookies are delightful, crispy treats containing a small piece of paper with a prophecy or message. While the exact origin of fortune cookies remains unclear, there's a belief that Japanese immigrants in the United States might have crafted them during the transition from the 19th to the 20th century. Frequently featured as desserts in both Chinese and American restaurants, fortune cookies are known by various names in China, such as "good luck cookie," "cookie with fortune words," and "good luck biscuit." Unlike ordinary confectionery, fortune cookies carry significance beyond mere consumption; they often symbolize concepts like luck, fate, and wisdom.
The Messages Inside Them
In the past, traditional fortune cookies typically contained a brief message written on a piece of paper, often featuring a Chinese phrase. Nowadays, these messages have evolved to include short, positive advice and messages. Occasionally, the messages also include numbers that have proven to be remarkably lucky for lottery winners. Some individuals take these messages seriously, interpreting them as signs from the universe. Many people even make a conscious effort to collect messages that resonate with them. However, there is a concern that these supposedly cosmic signs might merely be standard messages mass-produced by factories, each batch containing hundreds of messages intended for millions of people. These messages are typically inserted into the cookies while they are still warm from the baking process, and once placed, the cookies are sealed to maintain their shape.
The Voyage of Fortune Cookies
The inception of cookies bearing a striking resemblance to fortune cookies can be traced back to Japan, where a variation known as 'Tsujiura senbei' emerged. These early versions were larger and darker than the familiar fortune cookies we know today, containing small slips of paper within them. Originally referred to as 'fortune tea cakes,' fortune cookies retained this name until the era of World War II. Before the 20th century, these cookies were crafted by hand, with artisans shaping them into unique forms manually. However, a transformative moment occurred when Shuck Yee from California invented a machine for mass-producing fortune cookies. Despite the common association of fortune cookies with China due to their presence in Chinese desserts and restaurants worldwide, this perception is not entirely accurate.
The Making of Fortune Cookies
These cookies begin with a mixture of whipped egg whites, oil, vanilla essence, and sugar until achieving a frothy consistency. Subsequently, flour is introduced and thoroughly blended into the concoction. The resulting batter is then carefully portioned into small circles on a baking tray, undergoing baking until achieving a light golden hue around the edges.
While still hot from the oven, personalized handwritten messages are delicately placed on the circles, after which they are folded in half. The semi-circles are then skillfully curled towards each other using a chopstick or a slender stick. Following this, the cookies are left to cool, allowing them to set and maintain their distinctive shape.
Fortune cookies produced by major manufacturers, such as Wonton Food, Inc. headquartered in New York, contribute significantly to the estimated annual production of around 3 billion fortune cookies. A substantial portion of this output is consumed in the United States. The final product can be enjoyed immediately or conveniently packed for later enjoyment.
Fortune Cookies For Different Purposes
Shortly after being introduced, Cookies quickly gained popularity and found diverse applications. They became increasingly popular as corporate gifts for commercial and marketing purposes. The allure of these Cookies stemmed from their adaptability, allowing for personalized touches. While the custom fortune cookies maintained the authentic taste of traditional Chinese cookies from restaurants, the real innovation lay in the ability to customize the messages within. What was once a simple and standard fortune transformed into a clever marketing strategy. The messages seamlessly aligned with the company, directing recipients to websites, granting access to events, or serving as winning tickets in lotteries. The fortunes could be fully customized, featuring colorful prints or small logos on the side. The influence of these small pieces of paper proved to be surprisingly significant. People kept the slips in their wallets, showcased them to others, and in the subsequent years, shared them on various social media platforms.
Cultural Significance
Fortune cookies are now closely associated with Chinese-American dining, often serving as a delightful conclusion in Chinese restaurants. Going beyond their culinary roots, these cookies have transformed into a cultural symbol, making appearances in movies, TV shows, and various forms of popular media. Apart from their entertainment value, fortune cookies carry cultural importance as emblems of luck, wisdom, and positive fortune.
In certain cultures, a humorous tradition has emerged where individuals playfully append the phrase "in bed" to the end of a fortune. This lighthearted addition has become a tradition among friends and diners, infusing the experience of reading fortunes with an unexpected twist and a touch of laughter.
Global Impact
Over the years, fortune cookies have transcended their Chinese-American roots and found their way into various cuisines and cultures worldwide. They are not only enjoyed in Chinese restaurants but have also become popular in other Asian cuisines and beyond. Today, you can find fortune cookies in diverse settings, from Japanese sushi restaurants to international buffets.
Conclusion
While fortune cookies may trace their origins to modest beginnings, their evolution from a Japanese idea to a cultural emblem in Chinese-American traditions reflects their lasting allure. These petite delights, characterized by their secretive messages and crunchy exteriors, have successfully captivated the imaginations of individuals globally. Whether relished for their sweetness, the element of unpredictability, or the playful fortunes nestled inside, fortune cookies persist as an enchanting and treasured aspect of the dining encounter.
