A Taste of China: 15 Must-Try Foods You Can't Miss

Author: Nidhi Sood on Feb 23,2023

China's rich and diverse culinary traditions are as old as the country. The ancient Chinese have long revered food as a vital aspect of life, and their cuisine is a testament to the country's unique culture and history. From spicy Sichuan cuisine to delicate Cantonese dim sum, China offers a diverse range of mouthwatering dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Each dish's unique flavor, texture, and story reflects the country's rich heritage and cultural diversity. In this blog, we will take you on a gastronomic tour of China, highlighting the top fifteen must-try foods that will satisfy your cravings and give you a taste of the country's unique culinary scene.

#1. Peking Duck

Peking Duck is a famous dish that originated in Beijing, and it's a must-try when you visit China. The dish consists of crispy roasted duck that is served with thin pancakes, scallions, and a sweet bean sauce. The duck is typically roasted in a special oven to ensure the skin is crispy and the meat is juicy.

#2. Xiaolongbao

Xiaolongbao is a type of steamed dumpling that originated in Shanghai. The dumplings are typically filled with pork and a savory broth, which makes them incredibly juicy and delicious. When you bite into the dumpling, the broth explodes in your mouth, creating a unique and satisfying experience.

#3. Hot Pot

Hot pot is a popular dish enjoyed throughout China, and it's a great way to share a meal with friends or family. The dish consists of a pot of boiling broth for cooking various meats, vegetables, and other ingredients. The broth is typically flavored with spices and herbs to give it a unique and delicious taste.

#4. Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu is a spicy Sichuan dish with soft tofu, ground pork, and a spicy chili bean paste. The dish is known for its spicy and numbing flavor, achieved through Sichuan peppercorns. The dish is typically served with rice, a popular comfort food in China.

#5. Dumplings

Dumplings are a staple food in China, and they come in a variety of flavors and shapes. Some of the most famous dumpling fillings include pork, shrimp, and vegetables. Dumplings can be steamed, boiled, or fried and typically served with a dipping sauce.

#6. Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a spicy Sichuan dish with chicken, peanuts, and chili peppers. The dish is known for its bold and spicy flavor, achieved through Sichuan peppercorns. The dish is typically served with rice, a popular takeout dish in China.

#7. Mooncakes

Mooncakes are a traditional Chinese pastry typically eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival. The pastries are typically filled with lotus seed paste or red bean paste and are often decorated with intricate designs. Mooncakes are a sweet and satisfying treat perfect for dessert or a snack.

#8. Baozi

Baozi is a popular Chinese street food that consists of steamed buns filled with meat or vegetables. The buns are typically made with a yeast-based dough that is soft and fluffy. Baozi is a great on-the-go snack and popular breakfast food in China.

#9. Congee

Congee, known as rice porridge, is a traditional Chinese breakfast food. The dish is made by cooking rice with water until it becomes a thick, porridge-like consistency. Congee is typically served with savory toppings such as pickled vegetables, fried dough sticks, and soy sauce.

#10. Stinky Tofu

Stinky Tofu is a polarizing dish in China, as it has a strong odor that some people find off-putting. The dish consists of fermented tofu that is typically deep-fried and served with a spicy dipping sauce. Despite its pungent smell, Stinky Tofu has a unique flavor that many people in China enjoy.

#11. Zongzi

Zongzi is a traditional Chinese snack typically eaten during the Dragon Boat Festival. The snack consists of glutinous rice stuffed with fillings such as pork, mushrooms, and salted egg yolk. The rice is then wrapped in bamboo leaves and steamed until it becomes soft and sticky.

#12. Sichuan Pot

Sichuan Hot Pot is a variation of hot pot known for its bold and spicy flavors. The dish consists of a pot of boiling broth flavored with Sichuan peppercorns and other spices. Diners then add a variety of meats, vegetables, and other ingredients to the pot to cook them. The dish is spicy and numbing, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy spicy food.

#13. Hot and Sour Soup

Hot and sour soup is a classic Chinese soup commonly served as an appetizer. The soup is made with chicken or pork broth and is flavored with vinegar, soy sauce, chili oil, and various spices. It is typically loaded with ingredients such as wood ear mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and tofu, and it is a perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day.

#13. Hainanese Chicken Rice

Hainanese Chicken Rice is a classic dish that is widely popular across China, Singapore, and Malaysia. The dish consists of steamed chicken served on a bed of fragrant rice cooked with chicken broth and pandan leaves. The plate is typically done with chili sauce, soy sauce, and a bowl of chicken broth.

#14. Roujiamo

Roujiamo is a popular street food from the Shaanxi province of China. The dish consists of a flatbread stuffed with marinated meat, typically pork, and seasoned with cumin and other spices. It is often called the "Chinese hamburger" and is a great snack to grab on the go.

#15. Peking Noodles

Peking Noodles, also known as Zhajiangmian, is a classic Beijing-style noodle dish. The dish consists of thick wheat noodles with a savory sauce made with fermented soybean paste, ground pork, and vegetables. The dish is typically topped with sliced cucumbers and bean sprouts, giving it a refreshing and crunchy texture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, China's culinary scene is a reflection of the country's rich history and cultural diversity. Each dish tells a story and reflects the unique heritage and traditions of the region it originated from. From the savory Peking Duck to the spicy Mapo Tofu, the culinary scene in China is diverse and incredibly satisfying. Trying these fifteen must-try foods is a great way to experience the country's rich culinary heritage and discover the unique flavors and textures that China has to offer. So, whether you're a foodie or a curious traveler, make sure to add these dishes to your list of things to try when you visit China, and let your taste buds take a journey through the flavors of the country.