Shanghai Food: The Top 10 Dishes You Should Try
Shanghai cuisine is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, showcasing fresh ingredients and diverse influences. From street food to upscale dining, the city offers a range of dishes that reflect its culinary heritage. Here are ten iconic dishes to savor during your culinary journey in this vibrant city:
1. Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings in Bamboo Steamer)
Xiaolongbao are delicate soup dumplings filled with minced pork and savory broth. Steamed in bamboo baskets, they burst with flavor when bitten into. Traditionally enjoyed with ginger and black vinegar, these dumplings require a bit of technique to savor. Their juicy filling and tender skin make them a must-try delicacy in Shanghai.
2. Shengjianbao (Raw-fried Buns)
Shengjianbao are pan-fried buns with a crispy bottom and soft top, filled with pork and broth. After steaming, they are fried until golden, creating a delightful contrast in texture. Often garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, they are served hot with a dipping sauce, making them a popular street food choice.
3. Cifantuan (Sticky Rice Rolls)
Cifantuan are savory sticky rice rolls, perfect for a snack or breakfast. Made from glutinous rice, these rolls are filled with ingredients like pickled vegetables or fried dough. Wrapped and sliced for easy eating, their chewy texture and flavorful fillings create a satisfying experience, making them a convenient choice for busy mornings.
4. Steamed Hairy Crabs
Steamed hairy crabs are a seasonal delicacy, especially enjoyed in autumn. Known for their sweet meat and rich roe, these crabs are carefully steamed to enhance their flavor. Served with vinegar and ginger, they are often shared among diners, making the experience social and enjoyable. Their exquisite taste is a highlight of Shanghai's culinary offerings.
5. Red Braised Pork Belly
Red braised pork belly, or hong shao rou, features tender pork simmered in soy sauce, sugar, and spices. This glossy dish has a sweet and savory sauce that clings to the meat. Typically served with rice and greens, its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor make it a beloved classic in Shanghai cuisine.
6. Beggar’s Chicken
Beggar’s Chicken is a unique dish with a fascinating backstory. Traditionally, it involves marinating a whole chicken in spices, wrapping it in lotus leaves, and encasing it in clay before baking. The result is tender, flavorful chicken that retains moisture. When served, the clay is cracked open, revealing a delicious centerpiece for any meal.
7. Yellow Croaker Noodle Soup
Yellow croaker noodle soup is a comforting dish featuring fresh fish in a light broth. The tender yellow croaker is paired with noodles and garnished with green onions and cilantro. This hearty soup is both satisfying and flavorful, making it a favorite among locals and a perfect choice for a quick meal.
8. Youtiao (Deep-fried Dough Bar)
Youtiao are crispy, deep-fried dough sticks commonly enjoyed for breakfast. Often paired with warm soybean milk, these golden-brown treats are light and airy, perfect for dipping. Made from a simple dough mixture, their crunchy exterior and soft interior make them an irresistible snack throughout the day.
9. Douhua (Tofu Pudding)
Douhua, or tofu pudding, is a smooth dish enjoyed sweet or savory. Made from soft tofu, it can be served in a warm broth or syrup. The sweet version features sugar syrup and toppings like red bean paste, while the savory option includes soy sauce and scallions. This versatile dish is a comforting snack or dessert.
10. Soybean Milk
Soybean milk is a popular beverage in Shanghai, known for its creamy texture and health benefits. Made from ground soybeans, it can be enjoyed hot or cold, often sweetened or flavored. Paired with youtiao for breakfast, this nutritious drink is a delicious and wholesome addition to any meal, making it a staple in Shanghai cuisine.
