An incredible part of traveling is sampling all of the foods that different cultures have to offer. One of our favorite places to visit, specifically for their tasty cuisine, is China. There are so many delicious dishes to choose from when traveling throughout China, that you will need some time to try them all. Although if you are only in the country for a short while, there are some dishes from each region that you must try. Not only are these specific foods and dishes some of our favorites, but many of them are native to specific regions in China.Â
Are you hungry yet? We sure are! From Cantonese cuisine in Guangdong to Shanghai cuisine in Shanghai and more – here are delicious regional cuisines to explore in China.
Regional Cuisines to Explore in China
Guangdong
Guangdong is known for having lots of tasty food options. Specifically, this region offers a variety of dishes that derive from Cantonese cuisine. Some of the delicious food you can try in this region include dim sum, steamed fish, sweet and sour pork, wonton noodles, and char siu. If you’re looking to try something a little different than what you’re used to, we suggest trying out a meal that includes bitter melon. Bitter melon is a unique ingredient used in the region, and can be found in soup, and other dishes.Â
Fun fact: Dishes found in Cantonese cuisine typically use fresh ingredients and light flavors.
Beijing
If you find that you’ll be visiting Beijing while on your trip to China, you’re in luck! Foodies everywhere will tell you that Beijing is a must-visit destination if you’re looking to try a multitude of meals. Beijing cuisine is known for having rich dishes that you’ll want to eat over and over again. Some foods that you should try while here include Zha Jiang Mian, dumplings, peking duck, and hot pot. Something that is unique to try while in Beijing is Beijing yogurt. This yogurt isn’t like the yogurt we have here in the United States. Instead of being sweet, Beijing yogurt is somewhat sour and typically has a very thick consistency.
Fun fact: Many of the dishes found in Beijing cuisine were originally created for emperors.
Shanghai
Another region that’s full of mouth watering meals is Shanghai. Shanghai cuisine is known for having savory and sweet dishes that will keep you coming back for more. Trust us, this is one spot that you don’t want to miss. Some of the food you’ll want to try in Shanghai include soup dumplings (our favorite), steamed crab, smoked fish dumplings, and red-braised pork. Something unique that you can sample while here is mitten crab, otherwise known as Shanghai hairy crab.
Fun fact: Soup dumplings are one of the most popular street foods in Shanghai.
Jiangsu
In Jiangsu, you can find dishes that you won’t be able to find anywhere else. In fact, this region is known for using mainly ingredients that are seasonal, meaning that you will have a different food experience depending on the time of year. Some of the most popular dishes you will find in Jiangsu include braised pork belly, Yangzhou Fried Rice, and sweet and sour fish. For anyone who wants to try something different, we suggest sampling fish ball soup.
Fun fact: Many foods found in this region tend to be a little sweeter.
Sichuan
The final region you must visit if you’re looking to try some tasty treats is Sichuan. This region is known for spicy food, so be prepared to feel the burn! Some of the best foods that you can sample while here include hot pot, dan dan noodles, kung pao chicken, and hot and sour noodles. If you’re looking for a dessert, try a fried rice cake! Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.
Fun fact: Sichuan peppercorns aren’t actually a pepper.
Recipe to Try at Home – Chinese Coconut Milk Jelly
Ingredients:
- 1 Tablespoon Gelatin Powder
- 2 Tablespoons Sugar
- 1 Can Coconut Milk
- ¼ Cup Hot Water
Directions:
- Dissolve the gelatin in the hot water.
- Mix the sugar and coconut milk together.
- Stir in the gelatin.
- Pour your mixture into molds.
- Refrigerate for 2-3 hours until the gelatin is set, and enjoy!
Get a Visa For Your Upcoming Trip to China
Are you eager to head to China and try out some of these tasty treats? Great! It’s time to start planning your once-in-a-lifetime trip. The first thing that you’ll need to do is check that you have a valid passport and the right China visa for your trip. If you find that you are having problems when applying for your visa to China and would like to utilize a professional service, look no further than Swift. Our team of travel experts will then process your application and ship your visa to you once it’s ready, so that you can visit China without worry. We look forward to assisting you!
