A Taste of China is a food and travel series that explores the unique flavors and dishes of China. In each episode, we’ll visit a different province or city and learn about the local cuisine through interviews with chefs, home cooks, and food experts. We’ll also explore the history and culture of each region through its food.
So far, we’ve visited Beijing, Chengdu, Shandong, and Yunnan. Here are 10 unique dishes we’ve tried on our travels:
1. Peking Duck
Peking duck is a Beijing classic and probably the most well-known Chinese dish abroad. The meat of this stewed bird Soared In sweetness due to its natural sugar levels, which cause It’smeyer blood vessels near these parts to have a low restriction when they cross paths with an enzyme called “enzyme Q10” found naturally in ducks’ tissues ̶ giving them more energy! Served typically at restaurants across China alongside steamed buns topped off by scallions mixed together so there are no green pieces left behind as well as cucumbers to give the eater a crunch with every bite.
2. Chengdu Spicy Wontons
These dumplings are a Chengdu specialty and are made with a pork and chive filling that is wrapped in thin wonton skin. They are then boiled and served in a spicy soup made with chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, and dried chili peppers. The soup is so spicy that it numbs your tongue.
3. Shandong Chicken
Shandong chicken is a whole chicken that has been marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, ginger, and garlic, and then deep-fried. It is said to be the origins of General Tso’s chicken. The chicken is served with a sweet and sour sauce made with vinegar, sugar, and chili peppers.
4. Yunnan Rice Noodles
These rice noodles are made from scratch in Yunnan province and are said to be the best in all of China. They are served in a variety of soups and dishes, but the most popular is beef noodle soup. The soup is made with a beef broth that has been slow-cooked for hours with star anise, cinnamon, and other spices. The noodles are then added to the soup along with thin slices of beef, greens, and chili peppers.
5. Beijing Fried Rice
Beijing fried rice is a dish made with rice that has been stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and eggs. It is often served as a street food snack or as a side dish. The dish is said to have originated during the Qing Dynasty when rice was first introduced to China from India.
6. Shandong Fried Dumplings
These fried dumplings are a Shandong specialty and are made with a pork and chive filling that is wrapped in thin wonton skin. They are then deep-fried and served with a sweet and sour sauce made with vinegar, sugar, and chili peppers.
7. Yunnan BBQ
Yunnan BBQ is a dish of grilled meats and vegetables that are served with a variety of sauces. The most popular sauce is a chili sauce made with Yunnan chilies, garlic, and vinegar. Other sauces include sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, and sesame paste.
8. Chengdu Hot Pot
Chengdu hot pot is a dish of boiled meats and vegetables that are served in a spicy broth. The broth is made with chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, and dried chili peppers. It is said to be the origins of General Tso’s chicken. The hot pot is usually shared by two or more people and is often eaten as a family-style meal.
9. Beijing Kung Pao Chicken
Beijing kung pao chicken is a dish of stir-fried chicken and vegetables in a spicy sauce. The sauce is made with chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, peanuts, and vinegar. The dish is said to have originated in the Shaolin Temple in Beijing.
10. Yunnan Fried Rice
When you think of China, do the words “chili” and “spicy sauce” come to mind? If so then Yunnan Fried Rice may be just what your taste buds are craving. This dish originates from Sichuan and although it shares many similarities with its counterparts across various regions in our country – like Shanghai or Fujian-Chongqing– there’s still something special about this particular combination that makes us love eating them! The flavor combinations found within these dishes have been perfected over time thanks largely due to their local cooking traditions which were established long ago when these areas weren’t unified under one roof yet rather maintained separate identities as partway possession by different peoples living side by side. So, if you’re ever in Yunnan, be sure to order this dish and enjoy it.
Conclusion
There are many different types of food in China. Some of the most popular dishes include Shandong chicken, Yunnan rice noodles, Beijing fried rice, and Chengdu hot pot. Each dish has its own unique flavor and history. China is a country with a long and rich history, and its food reflects that. There is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you like your food spicy or sweet, there is a dish for you. So next time you’re in China, be sure to try some of these popular dishes. You won’t be disappointed.
