While Hangzhou is world-famous for its breathtaking West Lake and ancient temples, its culinary scene is an equally enchanting treasure. Rooted in Zhejiang cuisine, Hangzhou food emphasizes freshness, seasonal ingredients, and meticulous preparation. Prepare your palate for a journey through four iconic Hangzhou delicacies.
Dongpo Pork
Dongpo Pork is one of Hangzhou's most famous dishes with rich cultural heritage. Named after the revered Song Dynasty poet-governor Su Dongpo, the Dongpo Pork is a perfect dish balancing savory and sweetness. The pork belly is patiently slow-braised for hours with Shaoxing rice wine, soy sauce, ginger, and sugar. The result is nothing short of alchemy: the tender meat that can melt in your mouth enveloped in a complex, rich flavor.
West Lake Vinegar Fish
West Lake Vinegar Fish is intrinsically tied to the city’s lifeblood, traditionally featuring freshwater fish from the lake itself. The fish is simply steamed or poached to pristine tenderness. The star is the glossy, amber sauce: a masterful balance of Zhenjiang vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and ginger. It’s tangy, sweet, savory, and incredibly smooth, clinging beautifully to the flaky fish. Often adorned with vibrant shreds of ginger, it’s a deeply refreshing dish.
Longjing Prawns
Hangzhou’s reputation rests not only on its lake but also on its emerald hillsides, home to the world-famous Longjing tea. This famous tea finds a stunning culinary expression in Longjing prawns, or shrimp stir-fried with Longjing tea. Together, the delicate sweetness of the shrimp is elevated by the refreshing, grassy fragrance and a hint of pleasant bitterness from the tea.
Sister Song's Fish Broth
Sister Song's Fish Broth, or Song Sao Fish Broth, is a dish echoing with history. Named after "Sister Song," a legendary figure said to have nourished Song Dynasty soldiers, this is another signature Hangzhou dish. Enhanced with bamboo shoots, mushrooms, a subtle touch of vinegar, and white pepper, the broth achieves a beautifully smooth, savory, and slightly tangy warmth. Sometimes served with fine noodles, or enjoyed simply as a thick, nourishing soup, it offers a soothing finale that speaks of home and heritage.
(Editor: Ella Qu)
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