1. Biluochun Tea Fried Shrimp
Biluochun Tea Fried Shrimp (Photo source: Collected)
As one of the outstanding specialties of Suzhou cuisine , Biluochun tea-fried shrimp impresses with the delicate combination of the natural sweetness of fresh shrimp and the gentle aroma of Biluochun green tea - a famous tea grown along the shores of Lake Tai. After being fried until golden brown, the shrimp is covered with a layer of scented Biluochun tea, creating a dish with a refreshing flavor, rich in the culinary identity of Eastern China. This dish is not only attractive in flavor but also reflects the sophistication of traditional Chinese culinary art.
2. Hairy crab of Yangcheng Lake
Hairy crab of Duong Trung lake (Photo source: Collected)
When it comes to Suzhou cuisine, it is difficult to ignore the famous hairy crab from Yangcheng Lake - a place blessed by nature with a source of fresh, clean water, ideal for raising this crab species. With a layer of soft hair surrounding its claws and fragrant, naturally sweet meat, hairy crab not only attracts the taste buds but also stands out thanks to its high nutritional value, becoming a typical dish that attracts visitors every time they visit the ancient land of Suzhou.
Locals often choose simple cooking methods such as steaming or boiling to preserve the pure flavor of the crab. When enjoying, the dish is served whole, accompanied by a cup of slightly spicy ginger vinegar to help bring out the meat's aroma. Hairy crabs are best in autumn and early winter - the 9th lunar month is when female crabs have a lot of roe, while the 10th lunar month is when male crabs are firmer and have the most flavor.
3. Tam Bach Lake
Thai Ho Tam Bach (Photo source: Collected)
Suzhou cuisine is notable for the dish Taihu Sanbai, a culinary quintessence combining three types of fresh seafood including white fish, white shrimp and small white bait fish. This dish is impressive because the ingredients are processed immediately after being caught in Taihu - Suzhou's famous large freshwater lake, helping to preserve the natural flavor and characteristic sweetness. The combination of the fatty taste of white fish, the softness of shrimp and the richness of bait fish creates a dish that is not only delicious but also reflects the sophistication of local culinary style.
4. Song Shu Gui Yu Squirrel Catfish
Catfish dish (Photo source: Collected)
Song Shu Gui Yu is a prominent dish in Suzhou culinary culture, associated with the legend of Emperor Qianlong who was fascinated by this special flavor during his journey to the South. The dish is made from catfish - a freshwater fish with firm, sweet and fatty meat - through a sophisticated marinade process with ginger, green onions, garlic, chili, sugar, vinegar and soy sauce. After being fried and drizzled with sauce, the fish piece takes the shape of a jumping squirrel - hence the name "Song Shu" (meaning squirrel). This dish not only conquers diners with its rich, harmonious sweet and sour flavor but also with its unique and sophisticated appearance, reflecting the sophisticated culinary art of the people of Suzhou.
5. Ying Tao Rou Cherry Steamed Pork
As a quintessential representative of Suzhou cuisine, the cherry steamed pork (Ying Tao Rou) makes visitors curious right from its name. Fresh pork is sliced into bite-sized pieces, then covered with a layer of dried cherries. The steaming process helps the meat to be tender, retaining its natural sweetness and blending with the light sourness of the cherries. This unique combination not only creates an attractive flavor, but also provides a nutritious dish, suitable for both traditional meals and new culinary experiences for tourists who love to explore local cuisine.
6. Eel mixed with aromatic oil
In Suzhou cuisine, eel is not only a familiar ingredient but also associated with traditional dishes that are imbued with the identity of the river region. One of the outstanding dishes is eel mixed with aromatic oil - a dish that is sophisticated in both flavor and preparation.
After being boiled, the eel is shredded to preserve its natural toughness and sweetness. The chef then skillfully stir-fries the eel with green onions, sliced ginger, and flavorful bean sauce. All of these combine to create a fragrant, rich dish, bringing an unforgettable taste experience to diners.
7. Wansan Braised Pig's Trotters
Pig's feet dish (Photo source: Collected)
On the journey to discover Suzhou cuisine, visitors must definitely try Wansan braised pig's trotters - a famous specialty associated with the long-standing culinary culture of this land. The dish is elaborately prepared from selected pig's trotters, stewed for many hours with traditional spices, star anise and cardamom. When finished, the trotters have an attractive golden brown color, the skin is soft and smooth, the meat inside is fatty and fragrant and melts in the mouth, leaving an unforgettable rich aftertaste. This is the ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the typical flavors in the sophisticated culinary picture of Suzhou specialties.
8. Suzhou Mooncakes
Moon cake (Image source: Collected)
In the Suzhou culinary treasure, moon cakes are an indispensable symbol, bearing the mark of Jiangnan culinary culture. Completely different from the traditional thick and sweet moon cakes in other regions of China, cakes in Suzhou have a thin, spongy, multi-layered crust and are processed according to traditional recipes, creating an attractive appearance. The flavor of the cake has its own sophistication, easily making diners remember it from the first time they enjoy it. The cake fillings are diverse, from sweet like red beans, lotus seeds to salty like meat filling, suitable for the rich taste of visitors. It is this harmonious combination that has helped Suzhou moon cakes become one of the Suzhou specialties that many people love and seek out every Mid-Autumn Festival.
Above are typical specialties that contribute to the uniqueness of Suzhou cuisine - a place where the cultural quintessence and Eastern culinary arts intersect. If you are a lover of exploring local cuisine when traveling , Suzhou will definitely bring you memorable taste experiences. Don't forget to save this list to make your journey to explore Jiangnan more complete and flavorful!
Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/am-thuc-to-chau-v17322.aspx
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