Zhejiang, located on the eastern coast of China, is renowned for its natural beauty, rich history, and distinctive cuisine. The culinary traditions of Zhejiang are often regarded as one of the “Eight Culinary Traditions” of Chinese cuisine, and the province’s food culture is characterized by fresh, seasonal ingredients, delicate flavors, and an emphasis on natural tastes. Zhejiang cuisine, also known as Zhe cuisine, features a harmonious blend of sweetness, umami, and a subtle, light touch of seasoning. The province’s food is particularly famous for its seafood, as well as its use of freshwater fish and various herbs.

The food culture of Zhejiang has evolved over centuries, shaped by its coastal location, mountainous terrain, and abundant waterways. This article takes you on a culinary journey through Zhejiang, exploring some of the province’s most famous and beloved signature dishes.

1. Dongpo Pork (东坡肉) – A Rich, Tender Delight

One of the most famous and iconic dishes from Zhejiang is Dongpo Pork (东坡肉), named after the famous Song Dynasty poet and statesman Su Dongpo. This dish is known for its tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly that is slow-cooked in a savory mixture of soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and spices. The result is a beautifully glazed piece of pork that is both rich and flavorful, with a perfect balance of sweetness and umami.

The key to making Dongpo Pork lies in its preparation. The pork belly is simmered for several hours until the meat is tender and the fat melts away, leaving behind a succulent and flavorful dish. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Dongpo Pork is often served as a centerpiece dish during festive meals and family gatherings, and it is one of the most representative dishes of Zhejiang cuisine.

2. West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy (西湖醋鱼) – A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Sour

West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy (西湖醋鱼) is another signature dish from Zhejiang, specifically from the capital city of Hangzhou. This dish features fresh fish, often from the West Lake itself, which is famous for its serene beauty and rich biodiversity. The fish is cooked in a sweet and sour sauce made from rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and a variety of spices, creating a delicate balance of flavors that complement the natural sweetness of the fish.

The dish is typically made with catfish, carp, or perch, and the fish is carefully prepared to ensure it retains its tender texture. The sauce adds a slightly tangy and sweet profile that highlights the freshness of the fish, while the light seasoning ensures that the dish remains delicate and balanced. West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy is a popular dish among locals and visitors alike, and it is often enjoyed as part of a traditional Hangzhou banquet.

3. Beggar’s Chicken (叫花鸡) – A Unique and Flavorful Tradition

Beggar’s Chicken (叫花鸡) is a traditional Zhejiang dish with an interesting backstory. According to legend, the dish was invented by a beggar who was seeking a way to cook a chicken without any utensils. The beggar wrapped the chicken in lotus leaves and clay, then buried it in the ground and roasted it over a fire. When the chicken was finally unearthed, it was found to be incredibly tender, juicy, and full of flavor.

Today, Beggar’s Chicken is made by marinating a whole chicken with a mixture of herbs, spices, and Shaoxing wine. The chicken is then wrapped in lotus leaves and coated with clay before being slow-cooked, allowing the flavors to infuse the meat and creating a tender, aromatic dish. The combination of spices, wine, and the earthy flavor of lotus leaves makes Beggar’s Chicken a unique and memorable dish, often served during special occasions or festive meals in Zhejiang.

4. Longjing Shrimp (龙井虾仁) – A Taste of Freshness and Aroma

Longjing Shrimp (龙井虾仁) is a quintessential Zhejiang dish that highlights the region’s famous Longjing tea (Dragon Well tea) and its delicate flavors. The dish features fresh shrimp, which is stir-fried with tea leaves, creating a unique and fragrant combination of flavors. Longjing tea is known for its floral aroma and subtle sweetness, and when paired with the shrimp, it enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood.

The dish is typically made by first blanching the shrimp to preserve its tenderness, then quickly stir-frying it with Longjing tea leaves, ginger, and garlic. The result is a delicate and fragrant dish with a subtle hint of bitterness from the tea, which perfectly balances the sweetness of the shrimp. Longjing Shrimp is a dish that showcases Zhejiang’s deep connection to its natural surroundings and its ability to create simple yet elegant flavors.

5. Zhejiang-style Bamboo Shoots (浙江竹笋) – A Seasonal Delight

Zhejiang-style Bamboo Shoots (浙江竹笋) are a seasonal delicacy that is beloved in Zhejiang, particularly during the spring. Bamboo shoots are harvested from the region’s abundant bamboo forests, and they are known for their tender texture and delicate flavor. The shoots are often stir-fried with other vegetables or meats, such as pork or chicken, to create a dish that is light, refreshing, and full of natural flavor.

Bamboo shoots are also used in soups and stews, where their subtle taste adds depth to the broth. In Zhejiang cuisine, the shoots are typically cooked with simple ingredients, such as ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, allowing the natural sweetness of the bamboo to shine through. This dish is often enjoyed as part of a larger meal and is a great example of Zhejiang’s emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

6. Hangzhou-style Noodles (杭州面条) – A Comforting and Savory Dish

Hangzhou-style Noodles (杭州面条) are a popular street food in Hangzhou and a beloved comfort food for locals. The dish consists of hand-pulled noodles served in a savory broth made from chicken, pork, or vegetables, and topped with a variety of ingredients, such as pickled vegetables, shredded chicken, and fried shallots. The noodles themselves are made from high-quality wheat flour, giving them a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the rich broth.

Hangzhou-style noodles are often served with soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil, allowing diners to customize the dish to their liking. The combination of savory broth, tender noodles, and fresh toppings creates a satisfying and comforting dish that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This dish is a reflection of Zhejiang’s culinary emphasis on fresh, wholesome ingredients and balanced flavors.

7. Zhejiang-style Steamed Fish (浙江清蒸鱼) – Fresh and Light

Zhejiang is known for its abundance of freshwater fish, and one of the most popular ways to prepare it is by steaming it to preserve its delicate flavor and texture. Zhejiang-style Steamed Fish (浙江清蒸鱼) is a simple yet delicious dish that highlights the natural sweetness of the fish, often accompanied by soy sauce, ginger, spring onions, and a few other seasonings.

The fish is first cleaned and seasoned with a minimal amount of salt and ginger to enhance its natural flavor. It is then steamed until tender, and the steam infuses the fish with a light and aromatic fragrance. The dish is typically garnished with fresh spring onions and served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and sesame oil. Zhejiang-style Steamed Fish is a perfect example of the province’s approach to creating clean, fresh flavors with minimal seasoning.

8. Zhejiang-style Tofu (浙江豆腐) – A Versatile and Flavorful Ingredient

Tofu is a key ingredient in many Zhejiang dishes, and the province is known for its Zhejiang-style Tofu (浙江豆腐). This tofu is often made from fresh soybeans and has a smooth, creamy texture. It is commonly used in stir-fries, soups, and braised dishes, where its neutral flavor allows it to absorb the seasonings and flavors of the other ingredients.

One of the most popular dishes made with Zhejiang-style tofu is Braised Tofu with Pork (红烧豆腐), where the tofu is cooked in a rich, savory sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and Shaoxing wine. The tofu absorbs the flavors of the sauce, creating a comforting and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice. Zhejiang-style tofu is also enjoyed in hot pots, where its delicate texture makes it a great addition to the bubbling broth.

Conclusion

Zhejiang cuisine is a reflection of the province’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and abundant resources. The signature dishes of Zhejiang are characterized by delicate flavors, fresh ingredients, and an emphasis on highlighting the natural tastes of each component. From the tender Dongpo Pork and the sweet-and-sour West Lake Fish to the fragrant Longjing Shrimp and the comforting Hangzhou-style Noodles, Zhejiang offers a rich and diverse culinary experience that is sure to satisfy any food lover.

Zhejiang’s cuisine is all about balance, freshness, and simplicity, and its dishes remain an integral part of Chinese food culture. Whether you are savoring the seasonal bamboo shoots or enjoying a comforting bowl of Hangzhou-style noodles, the dishes from Zhejiang provide a deep connection to the region’s natural surroundings and its culinary traditions.