What is "yuanxiao," and how is it different from "tangyuan"?

Yuanxiao and tangyuan are both types of Chinese glutinous rice balls, but they differ in their preparation methods and regional variations. Yuanxiao, typically associated with northern China, are made by rolling sweet or savory fillings (such as sesame paste or red bean paste) into glutinous rice flour and then deep-frying or boiling them. Tangyuan, associated with southern China, are made by mixing glutinous rice flour with water to form a dough, which is then filled with sweet or savory fillings and boiled. Both are traditionally eaten during the Lantern Festival, but tangyuan is more commonly enjoyed year-round.