How to Eat Like a Local in China

China, the origin of the world's most beloved cuisine, offers travellers the opportunity to indulge in authentic local delicacies. Although China is renowned for its diverse culinary traditions and unique regional specialities, there are several legendary dishes that every traveller should sample while indulging in Chinese cuisine. From Kung Pao Chicken to crispy spring rolls, here are some must-order delicacies during a tour of China.

Mapo Tofu

While it may not grace the menus of most Chinese restaurants outside the mainland, Mapo Tofu is a culinary delight that every visitor should enjoy. This dish is a beloved favourite in China, renowned for its spicy flavour and consistently ordered from street vendors and local restaurants throughout the republic on a daily basis. Served with a spicy sauce, the tofu is first simmered in a heady mix of Sichuan peppercorns, bean paste and beef before it is doused in hot roasted chilli oil. Definitely not for the faint of heart, the heat this dish packs is enough to make smoke come out of your ears, at least figuratively if not literally.

Kung Pao Chicken

This worldwide favourite is also a big hit with the local populace as it is another side dish that hails from the Sichuan Province in South-Western China. Achieving a delectable serving of Kung Pao Chicken requires more than meets the eye. The key lies in expertly stir-frying the chicken until it reaches maximum tenderness and combining it with peanuts, vegetables, and chilli peppers for an irresistible flavour explosion. Often paired with steamed rice, Kung Pao Chicken goes equally well with fried noodles. Travellers based at Citadines Yunlong Lake Xuzhou or any of the other Xuzhou serviced apartments or hotels can also order this local dish from nearly any restaurant in the vicinity.

Chinese Hot Pot

Indulging in a sumptuous Chinese hot pot or steamboat at an upscale Chinese restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience. Renowned for its distinct preparation method, this meal enthrals diners as they witness their pot of soup meticulously cook a medley of raw ingredients directly on the dinner table. The captivating local culinary adventure is heightened by the historical context; originally an exclusive banquet feature for affluent nobles, Chinese hot pots have evolved into a communal dining choice, fostering togetherness as families and friends joyfully partake together.

Wonton Soup

Wonton soup's origins can be traced to Northern China, setting it apart from many dishes in the local culinary tradition, which predominantly stem from Cantonese cuisine or Sichuan. This soup is the perfect balance of heartiness and lightness. Unlike traditional dim sum, the dumplings in this dish are wrapped in egg yolk coverings and filled with delicious seafood. The broth itself is clear and the wontons are steamed, allowing them to maintain their texture when submerged in the chicken stock soup. Topped with crispy green onions, this soup is a beloved comfort food for locals and a great pick-me-up starter any time of day.

Spring Rolls

Diners who are fans of spring rolls they've sampled in their own corner of the world will be surprised at just how different this crunchy snack tastes in its birthplace. The filling, which usually consists of shredded cabbage and other vegetables, may or may not include a meat item but is always soft on the inside and flaky on the outside. During the spring festivals in China, spring rolls are a must-have delicacy. These delectable treats are fried in open-air venues such as streets and markets all over the country to celebrate the season. In addition to the traditional recipe, regional variations of spring rolls showcase diverse ingredients and dipping sauces, reflecting the rich culinary tapestry of the provinces in China.