1. Malatang
Discover the secret flavor of Malatang (Image source: Collected)
Malatang is one of the special Chinese street foods originating from Sichuan and Chongqing. This dish conquers diners with its diverse combination of ingredients such as meatballs, beef intestines, chicken feet, seafood, vegetables... all skewered, marinated and dipped in a pot of spicy broth, topped with a little fragrant roasted sesame - a typical flavor of Chinese cuisine .
Malatang was originally a popular dish sold by street vendors along riverbanks, bridgeheads or sidewalks. Over time, this dish has developed strongly, appearing on mobile carts and even large and small restaurant chains specializing in this famous Chinese snack.
Today, Malatang is present on every street, from small alleys to bustling centers in many cities in China, especially in Chongqing and Sichuan – the land considered the cradle of attractive Sichuan spicy dishes. This is not only a delicious dish but also an indispensable culinary memory in the experience of tourists when exploring local culture.
2. Stinky tofu
Stinky tofu is one of the typical snacks of Chinese cuisine that makes foreign tourists both curious and wary. Depending on the region, the fermentation method and accompanying spices will create a clear difference in flavor. In the eyes of many diners, this is a dish with a "shocking smell but addictive taste".
The fermentation process of tofu can last from a few days to a week, and it is this stage that creates the unique "soul" of the dish. The differences in processing methods between Northern and Southern China mean that each region has its own unique version of stinky tofu.
Among the famous localities, Changsha stinky tofu is considered a typical representative when it was listed in the “Top 10 outstanding Chinese snacks”. In addition, the versions in Hunan, Taiwan, Nanjing, Zhejiang, Shanghai, Beijing, Wuhan and Yulin are also very popular with food lovers.
Nowadays, this dish is not only popular at street stalls but also appears on the menu of many large restaurants in Chinatown. If you are looking for authentic local Chinese street food, stinky tofu is definitely a “one-of-a-kind” culinary experience you should not miss.
3. Chinese style sandwich
Chinese style sandwich (Photo source: Collected)
As one of the must-try Chinese street foods when visiting Shaanxi, Roujiamo is known as the “Chinese hamburger”. This dish consists of a crispy, fragrantly grilled crust, sandwiched inside is tender, flavorful stewed pork, combined with herbs and traditional spices. The rich flavor, moderate fat, and never gets boring, very suitable to enjoy when walking around the culinary streets of Xi’an or the bustling night markets.
4. Teppanyaki grilled squid
Teppanyaki grilled squid (Image source: Collected)
Teppanyaki grilled squid is one of the attractive Chinese street foods, especially popular in coastal cities. Fresh squid is marinated, then skewered on bamboo sticks and grilled directly on a hot steel table. The cook often uses a shovel to cut the squid into small slices and then spreads on a special sweet and spicy sauce, creating an unforgettable flavor. This dish originates from the Japanese Teppanyaki grilling style but has been adapted to Chinese culinary tastes. At the crowded night markets in Dalian or Qingdao, grilled squid is not only fragrant but also imbued with the spirit of street food. If you are looking for a delicious Chinese delicacy that is also rich in cultural experiences, this is the choice worth trying.
5. Crepes
Crepe (Image source: Collected)
Pancakes are one of the prominent traditional dishes in the Northern region of China, originating from Shandong province and popular in localities such as Linyi, Tai'an, Zaozhuang, Rizhao, Tengzhou or Qufu. Among them, Shandong pancakes are still considered the most delicious and authentic.
With its appealing taste, affordable price, easy to buy and guaranteed hygiene, pancakes quickly became a popular choice for breakfast for people. Over time, this dish has become more and more popular and is now considered one of the must-try Chinese street foods, especially for tourists who love to experience local cuisine.
6. Spicy and sour noodles
Spicy and sour noodles is a dish originating from the southwestern region of China, especially popular in Sichuan, Chongqing and Guizhou. This is a Chongqing specialty loved by many people for its rich, addictive flavor. The name says it all: soft and chewy noodles in a rich broth, both spicy and slightly sour, with the aroma of fermented vinegar and the characteristic slight tingling of Sichuan pepper.
Not just a regular Chinese spicy noodle, this dish was once honored in the list of “Top 10 most famous Chinese snacks”. Nowadays, you can easily find spicy and sour noodles on the streets of Chongqing or Beijing, becoming an indispensable part of the Chinese street food map. Although simply prepared in street stalls, the flavor of this dish always satisfies even the most demanding diners when exploring Chinese street food.
7. Candied fruit
Candied fruit (Image source: Collected)
If you are a fan of traditional sweets, candied fruit will surely make you fall in love with it at first taste. This is a traditional sweet in Chinese cuisine, made from fruits such as hawthorn, strawberries or grapes, skewered and dipped in a layer of melted sugar syrup, sometimes with the sweet and sour taste of plum sauce. After cooling, the sugar layer solidifies to form an attractive crispy shell.
When walking on the bustling streets of China, don't forget to enjoy this typical Chinese street food - an unforgettable experience in the journey to discover Chinese sidewalk specialties.
8. Dumplings - wontons
Steamed buns are a traditional dish steamed in bamboo trays using an ancient method, creating a soft, fragrant crust. This dish can be used for breakfast, main meals or snacks. Steamed buns come in a variety of fillings, from pork, vegetables to simple vegetarian buns, suitable for many tastes and budgets. Thanks to their convenience and affordable price, steamed buns are widely sold on the streets of China and are always loved by many people.
Dumplings – shaped like traditional Chinese gold bars, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune – are also a popular street food choice. They are a year-round staple but are especially popular during the Lunar New Year, when families gather to make their own dumplings filled with minced meat and fresh vegetables, creating a warm atmosphere. Dumplings can be prepared in a variety of ways, including boiling, steaming or pan-frying, with pan-fried dumplings often sold on street carts, making them an attractive and convenient Chinese street food.
9. Liang Pi
Luong bi (Image source: Collected)
Liang Pi is one of the famous traditional Chinese street foods, originating from Guanzhong, Shaanxi Province. This dish is known as a delicate combination of rolled dough, dough, rice noodles and stuffed noodles, creating a unique culinary experience that is very popular in Northern China. With a long history, Liang Pi has become a familiar snack loved by many people when walking on the bustling streets.
The outstanding feature of Liang Bi is the diversity in processing methods and unique spice blends, bringing many different flavors depending on the region. This dish is often described with adjectives such as "white, thin, soft, flexible and fragrant" - characteristics that create an irresistible attraction. Especially on hot summer days, it is not difficult to come across Liang Bi carts on the streets of Xi'an, where tourists and locals enjoy this special street food together.
In addition, Liang Pi is also considered a typical representative of Chinese street food, reflecting the culture and simple but sophisticated lifestyle of the people of Guanzhong region.
10. Shanghai Donuts
Pan-fried buns, also known as fried buns, are a traditional snack that is very popular in many regions such as Shanghai, Zhejiang, Jiangsu and Guangdong. This dish stands out with its crispy outer shell, soft and fragrant filling, mixed with rich sauce. When enjoying, you will feel the characteristic delicious taste of minced meat, sesame oil, fresh green onions and roasted sesame, creating an unforgettable flavor that lingers on the tip of your tongue. Initially, pan-fried buns were often served in traditional teahouses, but now, you can easily find them at many stalls on bustling streets. In particular, Shanghai pan-fried buns are always highly appreciated for their golden fried bottom, combined with sesame and chives sprinkled on the surface, bringing a rich and attractive Chinese street food experience.
Discovering Chinese street food not only helps you better understand the diverse and rich culinary culture of this country but also brings you an authentic experience, close to the daily life of local people. Plan your experience today to fully experience the quintessence of Chinese street food - an indispensable part of your trip!
Source : https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/mon-an-duong-pho-trung-quoc-v17263.aspx
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