best street food in Jiangsu

The Ultimate Guide to Street Food in Jiangsu

Jiangsu, located in eastern China, is a province filled with rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and mouth-watering street food. Renowned for its delicious flavors and diverse culinary traditions, Jiangsu's street food scene is a paradise for food lovers. Whether you are exploring the bustling streets of Nanjing or the charming water towns of Suzhou, here is a guide to some of the best street food you can't miss in Jiangsu.

Jianbingguozi: A Glimpse into Jiangsu's Breakfast Culture

Start your day like a local by indulging in a classic Jiangsu breakfast item, the jianbingguozi. This savory pancake is made from a batter of mung bean flour, eggs, and a variety of fillings such as pickled vegetables, crispy wonton skins, and chili sauce. The crispy texture combined with the flavorful fillings makes this dish a perfect choice to kick-start your day.

Head to the bustling morning markets in Nanjing or Suzhou, where local vendors masterfully prepare these delicious delicacies right in front of your eyes. Watching the enticing process of making jianbingguozi is an experience in itself.

Xiaolongbao: The Iconic Dumpling of Jiangsu

No trip to Jiangsu is complete without savoring the famous xiaolongbao. These delicate steamed soup dumplings are a true testament to the mastery of Jiangsu's culinary art. Filled with a juicy blend of minced pork or crabmeat and rich broth, xiaolongbao truly explode with flavors in your mouth.

Head to the renowned "Nanjing Impressions" restaurant in Nanjing, where you can savor the most authentic xiaolongbao in a traditional setting. The thin skin, tender filling, and the burst of hot soup make every bite of xiaolongbao a truly unforgettable experience.

Huaiyang Cuisine: A Gastronomical Journey

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Huaiyang cuisine, one of the eight major culinary traditions in China. Originating from the Huai River region in Jiangsu, this cuisine is renowned for its delicate preparation techniques, subtle flavors, and elegant presentation.

Sample dishes like "lion's head meatballs," tender meatballs cooked in a savory brown sauce, or "drunken chicken," marinated in Shaoxing rice wine. Huaiyang cuisine offers a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that is sure to satisfy even the most sophisticated palate.

Salted Duck: A Jiangsu Delicacy

If you are a fan of savory and succulent meats, don't miss trying the famous salted duck of Jiangsu. This local delicacy is marinated with a mixture of salt, spices, and herbs, then slowly air-dried to perfection. The salted duck has a unique flavor and texture that makes it a must-try dish in Jiangsu.

Head to Wuxi, a city known for its salted duck cuisine, and visit one of the traditional restaurants to savor this delicacy. Each bite of the tender and flavorful meat will transport you into a culinary bliss.

Sweet Treats: Jiangsu's Eclectic Desserts

End your culinary journey through Jiangsu with some delectable sweet treats. Jiangsu offers an array of delightful desserts, ranging from steamed buns filled with sweet red bean paste to tangyuan, glutinous rice balls filled with sesame paste.

Make a visit to Suzhou, often referred to as the "City of Gardens," and indulge in the famous "Suzhou-style mooncakes." These mooncakes are filled with sweet bean paste and wrapped in a crispy crust, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Summary

Exploring Jiangsu is not just about visiting its historical sites and natural beauty; it's also about immersing yourself in the culinary wonders of the region. From traditional breakfast delights like jianbingguozi to the famous Huaiyang cuisine and the alluring sweet treats, Jiangsu's street food scene offers something for every food enthusiast.

So, pack your bags, grab your chopsticks, and embark on a gastronomical adventure through the vibrant streets of Jiangsu.

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