Since its origins in the Tang Dynasty of China in the seventh century A.D, rock sugar continues to play a big role in the irresistible taste and appearance of Chinese cuisine. In addition to the obvious sweet baked treats like Su-style moon cakes and Nian Gao, rock sugar shines in savory applications. It balances out the salty and sour flavors of savory cuisine to create a harmonious flavor in addition to a beautiful translucent shine. Try it in recipes for Shanghai pork belly, Hainanese chicken rice, oxtail, and braised roasted duck.