Spice Sticks & Slim Stays Hunan's Zero-Calorie Craze!

A Hunan barbecue joint has ignited a social media frenzy with its bizarre yet brilliant "Spicy Bamboo Skewers." For a mere 10 yuan, patrons receive 50 skewers, not of meat or vegetables, but simply seasoned bamboo sticks, meant to be "sucked" clean. The restaurant claims this culinary oddity, a mix of chili powder, barbecue sauce, and green onions, is a hit with weight-conscious female customers.

The creator, Mr. Ma, observed the struggle of women wanting late-night snacks without the guilt. His solution? A zero-calorie, intensely flavorful experience. The skewers, grilled to release their aromatic spices, provide a sensory kick without the added calories.

Online, reactions range from nostalgia-fueled humor ("like chewing on pencils!") to outright disbelief ("consumption has bottomed out!"). Yet, the restaurant reports selling dozens, even hundreds, of these peculiar treats daily.

Addressing concerns about hygiene, Mr. Ma insists the skewers are single-use, emphasizing ethical business practices. He also defends the pricing, stating the profit margin is slim, with the dish primarily intended as a novelty to attract customers.

While the novelty factor is undeniable, Mr. Ma acknowledges its fleeting nature. He and his team are diligently working on new, equally innovative dishes to maintain their newfound popularity. This "spice stick" saga highlights a unique blend of creativity, consumer trends, and the ever-evolving landscape of food culture, where even a stick can become a sensation.