Malatang: The Spicy, Numbing Soup You Can’t Stop Eating Imagine a steaming bowl of broth so flavorful it makes your lips tingle and your taste buds dance. Welcome to malatang (麻辣烫), China’s ultimate street food obsession. Born in Sichuan’s fiery kitchens, this customizable soup lets you mix and match ingredients in a broth packed with chili heat and Sichuan peppercorns’ signature “má là” numbness. Here’s everything you need to know. What Makes Malatang Special? Malatang is street food democracy. Unlike traditional hot pot (where groups cook raw ingredients together), malatang…
The Art of Chinese Dumplings: 8 Must-Try Fillings Dumplings (饺子, jiǎozi) are more than just a dish in China—they’re a cultural icon. From family reunions to Lunar New Year feasts, these little pockets of joy symbolize luck and togetherness. Here are 8 classic dumpling fillings celebrated nationwide, each telling a story of regional tastes and culinary creativity. 1. Chive & Egg Dumplings (韭菜鸡蛋饺子 jiǔ cài jī dàn jiǎo zi) Ingredients: Fresh Chinese chives, scrambled eggs, dried shrimp (optional).Why It Shines: A vegetarian favorite, this combo bursts with earthy aroma and…
Discover vegan-friendly Chinese street eats! From sugar-glazed fruits to Buddhist mock meats, learn how to enjoy 7 plant-based snacks with ordering phrases, price ranges, and allergy tips. Naturally Vegetarian Classics 1. Candied Hawthorn Skewers (糖葫芦 táng hú lu) What: Skewered fruits dipped in hardened sugar syrup.Safe Ordering: Ask "Zhège jiā fēngmì le ma?" ("Does this have honey?") for strict vegans.Price: 0.50−0.50-0.50−1.50 2. Roasted Sweet Potato (烤红薯 kǎo hóng shǔ) Pro Tip: Look for vendors using coal ovens – natural caramelization without butter!Avg Cost: 1−1-1−2 3. Sugar-Glazed Chestnuts (糖炒栗子 táng chǎo…