With the exception of the much-loved xialongbao (soup dumpling), Shanghainese cuisine doesn’t always enjoy the respect it deserves. Many Chinese diners simply dismiss it as ‘too sweet’. Whilst it’s true that sugary flavours are common, here are five uniquely Shanghai delicacies all foodies will enjoy.
Xiefen Doufu (Crab Meat with Tofu)
A delicious combination of the famous freshwater ‘hairy crab’ that are native to this region and creamy tofu, best sampled in the Autumn crab season for the freshest meat.
Xintai Ruan (Red Dates Stuffed with Glutinous Rice)
The name means ‘soft-hearted’ and its origin is clear. Ripe red dates are stuffed with sweet, sticky rice and steamed with honey then covered in osmanthus syrup. A unique local dish that is served as an appetizer.
Cong You Ban Mian (Scallion Noodles)
This deceptively dull looking bowl of noodles is packed with deep, sweet flavors from the caramelized scallions. Fancier versions might include shrimp or pork belly – but they’re simply garnishes to an already delicious dish.
Lao Shanghai Xun Yu (Old Shanghai-Style Smoked Fish)
Another sweet one, this is a cold, crispy appetizer that defines the classic sweet and salty combination. Freshwater fish is glazed with a combination of soy sauce, vinegar and sugar – just watch out of the tiny bones that sometimes hide inside.
Ci Fan Tuan (Rice Ball)
A truly decadent street side breakfast option, the ci fan tuan sees an entire boiled egg being combined with a handful of other goodies (black bean sauce, crispy dough and pork floss among them) and enveloped in soft, purple rice then gently pressed into a ball before your eyes. A great start to a long work day.
Love soup dumplings? For the ultimate Shanghai foodie experience, why not try our Xiaolongbao Cooking Class Signature Experience? It’s the most fun you can have in Shanghai with an apron on.