馒头

馒头 (mán tou) refers to a type of steamed wheat flour bread commonly eaten in China. It is a staple food, often served as a breakfast item or side dish. Unlike other types of bread, it is typically unsweetened and has a soft, fluffy texture.

The character 馒 (mán) originally meant a type of steamed food, while 头 (tóu) literally means 'head' but here functions as a suffix indicating a small unit or item. Together, they form a term that specifically describes this kind of bread.

馒头 is widely consumed across China and is often associated with simplicity and comfort. It can be eaten plain, with various toppings, or filled with ingredients like meat or vegetables. In some regions, it is also used in traditional dishes or as a base for other foods.