Chinese Cuisine: The Real Deal
If, like me, you’re a self-confessed foodie – you will be in heaven when you visit the diverse melting pot of cuisines that is China. The choice of delicious, fresh produce you get varies greatly from region to region, but it’s safe to say that wherever you go – your Chinese takeaway at home will never taste the same again! Once you tasted real Chinese fayre, you won’t want to bother with any imitations: this food is the real deal. Here are some of the most delicious foods to try while you’re visiting one of the most vibrant destinations in the world…
Hairy crab is one of the most popular dishes of the Shanghai region. The season for this delicacy lasts for three months towards the end of the year, and it is in hot demand by locals and tourists alike during this time. Though they can be a bit awkward to eat if you are not used to them, you’ll find the effort is worth it when you taste the rich goodness of the roe, a delicious nectar that is perfectly complimented by Shaoxing wine.
Xiao Long Bao is a warming and tasty dish that is made up of carefully crafted dumplings, soup flavoured with pork, chicken, ginger, spring onions and Shaoxing wine – combined with ground pork that has a deliciously sweet taste. This food is readily available at the popular street stalls selling a whole range of tasty treats, and originates from Nanxiang, a town near Shanghai.
Siu Mei is meat that has been barbecued, Cantonese style. It’s a popular choice with the natives, and you get a wide choice: go for duck, pigeon, chicken, goose, pork and cuttlefish. These are all marinated in a carefully crafted mix of spices, then barbecued to perfection before being served with sweet sauce on a bed of rice. Book China tours at http://www.thechinatravelcompany.co.uk to sample this delicious treat at one of the many barbecue shops or markets and street vendors.
Fresh tofu is a million miles away from the bland chewy stuff you might have tried at home. Buy it in the morning, and enjoy the creamy, smooth and comforting flavour of this snack that is found all over China.
Fuqi Feipian is a beef recipe that is cooked Szechuan style, and served cold. Poached beef is mixed with beef offal and flavoured with chilli oil, Sichuan pepper, black vinegar and sesame oil. The addition of peanuts and spring onions give added bite to this dish, which is often served as a starter in places like Chengdu.
The sheer size of China means that you will never struggle to find a huge array of tasty things to eat, whatever your tastes and preferences. If you’d like to find out about Chinese desserts, read this article. While you’re visiting the country, make sure you don’t miss the bustling street food stalls that serve Chinese treats, snacks and whole meals at very reasonable prices in the same time that it would take you to pick up a Big Mac at home – and there is no comparison in terms of taste and flavour!