Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Huai’an, Jiangsu, China

Huai’an, China, Huai’an, Food & Drink, Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them

Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Huai’an, Jiangsu, China

1. Huaiyang Rouge

A famous dish originating from Huai'an, featuring tender and flavorful pork slices in a sweet and tangy sauce. Try it at the local restaurant 'Ye Lou Soy Sauce Pork Chop'.
  • Unique Ingredients: Features locally-sourced soybeans and Huai'an rice wine.
  • Culinary History: A traditional dish with a rich history dating back to the Ming Dynasty.
  • Flavor Profile: Distinctive sweet and tangy flavor profile.

2. Shuizhong Lobster

Delicious freshwater lobster from Shuizhong Lake, cooked in various styles. Don't miss the spicy lobster at 'Xiangyue Seafood Restaurant'.
  • Freshness: Caught fresh daily from Shuizhong Lake.
  • Local Specialty: A unique Huai'an delicacy and tourist attraction.
  • Cooking Styles: Offered in several traditional and innovative cooking methods.

3. Dongting Mud Carp

Mild-flavored Dongting Mud Carp, a local fish specialty, is a must-try at 'Yangguo Fish Market'. Try it steamed with ginger and green onions.
  • Freshness: Caught from the Dongting Lake, known for its clean waters.
  • Culinary Tradition: A long-standing local tradition of fishing and preparing carp dishes.
  • Flavor Profile: Mild, delicate flavor with a firm texture.

4. Huai'an Beancurd

Fresh and silky tofu from Huai'an, served in various dishes. Try it at 'Taohuayuan Tofu Shop'.
  • Local Specialty: Huai'an is renowned for its high-quality tofu production.
  • Texture: Soft, silky, and delicate texture.
  • Versatility: Used in various local dishes, from stir-fries to soups.

5. Huai'an Rice Wine

Sweet and fragrant rice wine from Huai'an. Learn about its production at 'Jinxiu Rice Winery'.
  • Taste: A unique balance of sweetness, aroma, and smoothness.
  • Production Technique: Traditional production method using local glutinous rice.
  • Local Culture: An integral part of Huai'an's cultural heritage and daily life.

6. Huaiyang Stir-fried Shrimp

Crunchy and flavorful stir-fried shrimp with fresh vegetables at 'Zhenxin Seafood Restaurant'.
  • Freshness: Fresh seafood from the nearby waters.
  • Culinary Technique: Skilled stir-frying technique for a perfect texture.
  • Flavor Profile: Balanced salty, sweet, and spicy flavors.

7. Shuangliu Fried Dumplings

Flavorful and juicy dumplings at 'Shuangliu Dumpling House'. Don't forget to try the signature sauce!
  • Taste: A unique blend of flavors, including local vegetables and seasonings.
  • Preparation Technique: Handmade dumplings with delicate wrappers and juicy fillings.
  • Local Culture: A traditional dish popular in Huai'an's street food scene.

8. Huai'an Scallion Pancakes

Thin and crispy scallion pancakes at 'Baitang Scallion Pancake Shop'.
  • Texture: Crispy exterior with a soft, doughy interior.
  • Flavor Profile: Savory and aromatic due to the fresh scallions and local seasonings.
  • Local Culture: A long-standing tradition in Huai'an cuisine.

9. Huaiyang Fried Gluten

Crispy and flavorful fried gluten at 'Ye Lou Restaurant'. A must-try for vegetarians.
  • Texture: Light, airy, and crispy exterior with a soft, chewy interior.
  • Flavor Profile: Savory and umami flavor from the soy sauce marinade.
  • Local Culture: A popular dish in Huai'an cuisine, often served as a vegetarian option.

10. Huaiyang Stir-fried Vegetables

Colorful and flavorful stir-fried vegetables at 'Xiangyue Restaurant'. Enjoy the freshness of local produce.
  • Freshness: Fresh, seasonal vegetables picked daily from nearby farms.
  • Flavor Profile: A vibrant mix of flavors from the variety of vegetables and local seasonings.
  • Local Culture: A staple in Huai'an cuisine, showcasing the region's bountiful produce.

11. Huaiyang Fried Rice

Flavorful and aromatic fried rice at 'Taohuayuan Restaurant'. Don't miss the signature dish cooked with fresh tofu.
  • Texture: Sticky, well-seasoned grains of rice.
  • Flavor Profile: A unique blend of flavors from local ingredients and seasonings.
  • Local Culture: A traditional dish in Huai'an cuisine, often served with various proteins or vegetables.

12. Huaiyang Braised Duck

Tender and flavorful braised duck at 'Ye Lou Restaurant'. Enjoy the rich, savory sauce with steamed buns.
  • Texture: Fall-off-the-bone tender meat.
  • Flavor Profile: Rich, savory flavor from the long braising process and fragrant spices.
  • Local Culture: A traditional dish in Huai'an cuisine, often enjoyed during special occasions.

13. Huaiyang Steamed Fish

Fresh and flavorful steamed fish at 'Zhenxin Seafood Restaurant'. Enjoy the delicate fish flavors with a side of fresh vegetables.
  • Freshness: Fresh, sustainably-sourced fish from nearby waters.
  • Flavor Profile: A delicate, subtle flavor profile allowing the fresh fish to shine.
  • Local Culture: A traditional dish in Huai'an cuisine, highlighting the region's fresh seafood.

14. Huaiyang Sweet Potato Balls

Soft and sweet potato balls at 'Baitang Street Food Stall'. A perfect snack or dessert.
  • Texture: Soft, smooth, and slightly chewy.
  • Flavor Profile: Sweet and aromatic due to the fresh sweet potatoes and local seasonings.
  • Local Culture: A popular street food snack in Huai'an.

15. Huaiyang Rice Cake

Sticky and savory rice cake at 'Taohuayuan Restaurant'. Try it as a side dish or dessert.
  • Texture: Sticky, slightly chewy, and soft.
  • Flavor Profile: Savory and aromatic from the rice flour and local seasonings.
  • Local Culture: A traditional dish in Huai'an cuisine, often served during festivals or special occasions.