Home to some of China’s top heritage sites, Changsha is also a dream come true for Chinese food lovers. Here are some of the must-sample delicacies during a tour of the area.

Image credit- Unsplash,focusonpc,CC0

Bean Curd

Also known as Stinky Bean Curd, this classic Chinese dish is best enjoyed at Changsha’s Huogongdian Restaurant. With a history that dates back over a century, this iconic restaurant has served stinky bean curd to the likes of Chairman Mao among many others. With its crispy exterior and soft and chewy interior, this dish, which is made using fermented soybeans, is also a healthy snack for vegan or vegetarian diners.

Deyuan Steamed Bun

Sweet and delicious, Deyuan Steamed Buns feature an ultra-thin exterior and a sweet and succulent filling that’s usually made using rose candy and osmanthus candy along with mushrooms, jelly oil, and pork. This strange combination of flavours was the result of ancient residents of the area using leftovers to stuff their buns and thus the Deyuan Steamed Bun was born.

Kouwei Shrimp

Whether you’re based at the Ascott Xiangjiang FFC Changsha or any other Changsha apartments complex, you will not be far from a local restaurant serving this delectable seafood dish. Seasoned with garlic, ginger, pepper, fennel and aniseed, this lobster meal is irresistible as it is widely available all across Changsha.

Snacks

Head down to Changsha’s bustling Huangxing Road to experience the local street food scene during a holiday in the area. Visitors can not only munch on local favourites the likes of fried octopus legs and peanuts but also crispy tofu and other authentic snacks that are unique to Hunan Province.