Famous Food in Nanjing: A Culinary Journey

Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province in eastern China, is renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture. Its culinary scene is just as impressive, offering a diverse array of dishes that reflect the city's historical influences and regional ingredients. This article delves into some of the most famous foods in Nanjing, exploring their origins, flavors, and the best places to try them.

1. Salted Duck (盐水鸭)

Salted Duck is perhaps the most iconic dish of Nanjing. This specialty features duck that has been brined with a mix of salt, herbs, and spices before being slow-cooked. The result is a tender, flavorful meat with a delicate aroma. The dish is typically served cold, making it a refreshing choice, especially during warmer months.

Origin and Preparation: The origins of Salted Duck date back to the Ming Dynasty. The preparation involves marinating the duck in a mixture of salt, ginger, and other spices. After marination, the duck is steamed to perfection. The use of traditional techniques ensures that each bite is moist and flavorful.

Where to Try: One of the best places to enjoy Salted Duck is at the famous Nanjing Salted Duck Restaurant, where you can taste this delicacy made with authentic methods.

2. Nanjing Soup Dumplings (南京小笼包)

Nanjing Soup Dumplings are another must-try. These dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of pork and a rich, flavorful broth. The key to their deliciousness lies in the delicate dough and the skillful technique of steaming them just right, so the broth remains inside the dumpling until you take a bite.

Origin and Preparation: Soup Dumplings are believed to have been invented in the 19th century. The filling typically includes minced pork, ginger, and scallions, with a rich broth that is created by adding gelatin to the mixture, which melts into soup when steamed.

Where to Try: The Xiaolongbao at the famous Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant is highly recommended for an authentic experience.

3. Duck Blood Soup (鸭血汤)

Duck Blood Soup is a popular street food in Nanjing, known for its hearty and warming qualities. The soup features duck blood, tofu, and a variety of vegetables, simmered in a flavorful broth. The duck blood adds a unique texture and depth of flavor to the soup.

Origin and Preparation: Duck Blood Soup has been a part of Nanjing’s street food culture for decades. The preparation involves simmering the ingredients in a savory broth made with duck bones, which imparts a rich flavor to the dish.

Where to Try: For an authentic bowl of Duck Blood Soup, visit one of the bustling street food stalls around the Nanjing Confucius Temple area.

4. Nanjing Dried Salted Duck (南京咸鸭)

Nanjing Dried Salted Duck is a variation of the classic Salted Duck, with the added step of drying the duck after salting. This method intensifies the flavors and gives the duck a distinctive taste and texture.

Origin and Preparation: The drying process for this duck involves hanging the salted duck in a cool, dry place for several days. This method not only enhances the flavor but also extends the shelf life of the duck.

Where to Try: Local markets and specialty stores in Nanjing often sell Dried Salted Duck, but the best ones can be found at the Dongshuigou Duck Shop.

5. Nanjing Style Wonton Soup (南京馄饨汤)

Nanjing Style Wonton Soup is a beloved dish that features delicate wontons filled with a mix of pork and shrimp, served in a clear, savory broth. The soup is often garnished with scallions and a dash of soy sauce for extra flavor.

Origin and Preparation: Wonton Soup has been a staple in Chinese cuisine for centuries. The wontons are made by wrapping a flavorful filling in thin dough and boiling them until tender. The broth is typically made from chicken or pork bones, resulting in a light yet flavorful soup.

Where to Try: You can find delicious Nanjing Style Wonton Soup at local eateries such as the Wonton King Restaurant, known for its flavorful broth and perfectly cooked wontons.

6. Nanjing Fried Rice (南京炒饭)

Nanjing Fried Rice is a flavorful dish that combines rice with various ingredients such as vegetables, meat, and eggs. The rice is stir-fried with soy sauce and other seasonings, creating a dish that is both savory and satisfying.

Origin and Preparation: Fried rice is a popular dish across China, but Nanjing's version stands out for its use of local ingredients and unique seasonings. The preparation involves stir-frying cooked rice with a mix of vegetables and meats, resulting in a delicious and aromatic dish.

Where to Try: Local diners and street food stalls often serve Fried Rice, but the best versions can be found at the Old Nanjing Fried Rice Restaurant, renowned for its flavorful and well-balanced fried rice.

7. Nanjing Pickled Vegetables (南京腌菜)

Nanjing Pickled Vegetables are a traditional side dish that adds a tangy contrast to the rich and savory main dishes. The pickles are made from a variety of vegetables such as cucumbers, radishes, and cabbage, which are pickled in a mixture of vinegar, salt, and spices.

Origin and Preparation: Pickling vegetables is a time-honored tradition in Nanjing, with recipes passed down through generations. The vegetables are typically left to pickle for several days, allowing the flavors to develop fully.

Where to Try: You can sample Nanjing Pickled Vegetables at local markets and restaurants, with notable places including the Nanjing Pickled Vegetable Shop.

8. Nanjing Sesame Cakes (南京芝麻饼)

Nanjing Sesame Cakes are a popular snack made from dough coated with sesame seeds and baked until crispy. These cakes have a nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch, making them a perfect snack for any time of day.

Origin and Preparation: Sesame Cakes are believed to have originated in the Ming Dynasty. The preparation involves mixing flour with water to make a dough, which is then rolled out, coated with sesame seeds, and baked to perfection.

Where to Try: Local bakeries and snack shops, such as the Nanjing Sesame Cake Bakery, offer fresh and crispy sesame cakes that are sure to satisfy.

9. Nanjing Beef Jerky (南京牛肉干)

Nanjing Beef Jerky is a savory snack made from marinated beef that is dried and seasoned. The jerky is known for its intense flavor and chewy texture, making it a popular snack for travelers and locals alike.

Origin and Preparation: Beef Jerky has been a traditional snack in Nanjing for many years. The preparation involves marinating beef strips in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and spices, then drying them until they reach the desired texture.

Where to Try: You can find high-quality Beef Jerky at local specialty stores, with the Nanjing Jerky Shop being a popular choice for its flavorful and well-seasoned jerky.

10. Nanjing Braised Pork (南京红烧肉)

Nanjing Braised Pork is a rich and flavorful dish made from pork belly that is braised in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and spices. The pork is cooked slowly until it is tender and infused with the rich flavors of the braising sauce.

Origin and Preparation: Braised Pork has a long history in Chinese cuisine. The Nanjing version is characterized by its sweet and savory flavor, achieved by slow-cooking the pork belly in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and spices.

Where to Try: For an authentic experience, try Braised Pork at local restaurants such as the Nanjing Braised Pork House, known for its rich and flavorful dishes.

Conclusion

Nanjing’s culinary landscape is a treasure trove of flavors and traditions, offering something for every palate. From the iconic Salted Duck to the comforting Duck Blood Soup, each dish tells a story of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you are a local or a visitor, exploring the famous foods of Nanjing is a delicious journey that is sure to leave a lasting impression.