Qigu Zhuangji Charcoal Grilled Sweet Potato Introduction
Zhuang Yongzhen, born in 1961 and a native of Kaohsiung, joined the roasted sweet potato business at the invitation of friends. He purchased a roasting oven, transferred techniques, and provided information on sweet potato suppliers, leading to the sale of charcoal-roasted sweet potatoes. Initially, he sold them in Kaohsiung, and the following year moved back to his wife's family home in Qigu. He operated like a mobile vendor, setting up in crowded areas and moving to different spots once the crowds dispersed. It wasn't until the year after the 7-11 Qigu store opened in 1995 that he established a fixed selling point, only operating on weekends while working as a family subcontractor during the week. The charcoal-roasted sweet potatoes from Zhuang Ji are so delicious that customers keep coming back for more. The secret lies in the selection of sweet potato varieties and the special charcoal used. The sweet potatoes sold at Qigu Zhuang Ji are divided into two types based on seasonal changes: the red-fleshed sweet potatoes are from Taichung Dadu Mountain Tainung 66, available from September to November each year; the yellow-fleshed sweet potatoes are from Yunlin Shuilin 57, available from November to June of the following year. The charcoal is made from longan wood sourced in Taiwan, which burns smokelessly, preventing the sweet potato skin from being charred while imparting a rich aroma to the sweet potatoes. After purchasing the sweet potatoes, Zhuang Yongzhen cleans and air-dries them to reduce moisture. On weekends, when he sets up at the selling point, he trims the ends and places them in the oven for roasting, adjusting the roasting time based on the size of the sweet potatoes...
