Chinese mum makes ‘thunder breakfast’ for son, goes viral with 900 million views
South China Morning Post
by Zoey ZhangFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A Chinese mother from Zhejiang province has gained international attention after creating unique and unconventional breakfast dishes for her son, sparking a viral social media sensation with over 900 million views. Initially criticized online for serving simple meals like dry bread and hot water, Zhang Liping decided to challenge the backlash by showcasing her creativity in the kitchen. Her quirky breakfast combinations, such as candied fruit skewers, sour fish soup, and luosifen (Chinese vermicelli), quickly went viral, capturing the imagination of netizens worldwide.
Zhang Liping, a clothing shop owner, shared videos of her son’s breakfasts on social media, which initially drew criticism for lacking nutritional balance. One commenter humorously referred to the meals as “stepmother’s breakfast,” while others accused her of neglect. Faced with this negative feedback, Zhang turned to her culinary skills and began crafting bizarre yet visually striking breakfast spreads. These included a combination of barbecue, coffee, and milk alongside unconventional dishes like fried dough sticks and sweet-sour fish heads.
The story resonates globally as it highlights the power of creativity in addressing online judgment and turning criticism into an opportunity for innovation. Zhang’s unique approach to parenting and meal preparation has inspired discussions about the role of social media in shaping perceptions of child-rearing and culinary norms. Her journey from simple meals to viral fame not only showcases her resourcefulness but also underscores how humor and creativity can transform public perception, offering a fresh perspective on modern parenting challenges.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/14/2026