best places for traditional food in Gansu

Gansu: A Culinary Journey through Traditional Delicacies

Welcome to Gansu, a province in northwest China known for its majestic landscapes, ancient Silk Road history, and, of course, its mouthwatering traditional food. As you embark on a culinary journey through Gansu, prepare your taste buds for a tapestry of flavors, influenced by the province's rich cultural heritage and geographical diversity. From hearty noodles to savory dumplings, Gansu offers an array of traditional delicacies that will leave you craving for more.

The Silk Road-Inspired Delights

Gansu, being one of the key stops on the historic Silk Road, has been a melting pot of culinary influences from Central Asia, Tibet, and China. One cannot delve into Gansu's traditional food without mentioning two iconic dishes that would transport you back in time:

Lanzhou Beef Noodles: Considered a culinary treasure, Lanzhou Beef Noodles are the epitome of Gansu's cuisine. These hand-pulled noodles, served in a rich beef broth and topped with tender slices of beef, are a symphony of flavors and textures. The secret lies in the slow-cooked beef broth, simmered for hours with aromatic spices, and carefully hand-pulled noodles that add an extra touch of authenticity. Don't forget to sprinkle some chili oil and garlic sauce for an enhanced experience.

Yangrou Paomo: Another specialty that will captivate your senses is Yangrou Paomo, a traditional lamb stew. Legend has it that this dish originated from soldiers during the Tang Dynasty, who would tear their hardtack bread into pieces symbolizing the enemy's heart before adding them to the flavorful lamb broth. The stew is served with a side of unleavened bread, which you soak in the broth until it turns into a delightful porridge-like consistency. The combination of tender lamb, fragrant spices, and the unique bread preparation technique makes Yangrou Paomo a must-try dish in Gansu.

Delightful Dumplings and Pancakes

In addition to the Silk Road-inspired dishes, Gansu boasts a variety of dumplings and pancakes that will tantalize your taste buds:

Miantuan: Miantuan, also known as Gansu pancakes, are a beloved breakfast food in the region. These savory pancakes are made with wheat flour and stuffed with a variety of fillings such as minced meat, vegetables, or even sweet fillings like red bean paste. The pancakes are then pan-fried to perfection, resulting in a delightful crispy exterior and a flavorful, soft center. Miantuan is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Gansu Jiaozi: Jiaozi, or dumplings, are a ubiquitous dish found throughout China, but Gansu puts its own unique twist on them. In Gansu, you can indulge in a wide variety of jiaozi fillings, from the classic pork and cabbage to more adventurous combinations like lamb and carrot. The dumplings are typically boiled or pan-fried and enjoyed with a dipping sauce made from vinegar, soy sauce, chili oil, and other condiments. Eating Gansu jiaozi is not only a culinary delight but also an opportunity to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Exploring Gansu's Lesser-Known Gems

While the aforementioned dishes are some of the most popular in Gansu, the province has even more culinary gems to discover:

Suan Cai: Suan Cai, which translates to "sour vegetable," is a pickled cabbage dish commonly enjoyed in Gansu during the winter months. The cabbage is fermented with salt and other spices to create a tangy and slightly spicy flavor. Suan Cai is not only a delicious side dish but also serves as a base for many hearty stews and noodle soups.

Matang: Matang is a type of sweet soup made from malt sugar, glutinous rice balls, and various dried fruits and nuts. This popular dessert in Gansu is traditionally enjoyed during the Lantern Festival, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and chewiness. It's the perfect way to end a flavorful meal in Gansu.

Where to Find These Delicacies

Gansu is dotted with local restaurants, street food stalls, and night markets where you can savor these traditional delicacies. Some notable places to try include:

Zhuangyuan Fang Restaurant: Located in Lanzhou, this restaurant is famous for its authentic Lanzhou Beef Noodles, prepared with utmost precision and expertise.

Jiu Qu Jiang Yangrou Paomo Restaurant: Situated in Xi'an, this restaurant is known for its mouthwatering Yangrou Paomo, ensuring you experience the best of Gansu's lamb stew.

Wang Ji Miantuan: This popular chain of pancake shops can be found in various cities throughout Gansu, offering an assortment of delicious miantuan options.

Remember, the best way to truly experience Gansu's traditional food is to venture off the beaten path and explore local eateries and markets. Embrace the unique flavors and culinary traditions of Gansu, and let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable journey.

So pack your bags, prepare your appetite, and get ready to embark on a mouthwatering adventure through Gansu's traditional delicacies. From the historic Silk Road-inspired delights to delightful dumplings and pancakes, Gansu offers a gastronomic experience that will leave you wanting more. Come and discover the flavors of Gansu - a province where culinary traditions thrive and legends come to life with every delicious bite.

Tags： Adventure Activities