Peking, the capital of China, is known not only for its rich history and grand landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall but also for its world-renowned cuisine. Peking cuisine, or Beijing cuisine, is an essential part of Chinese culinary traditions, offering a combination of flavors, textures, and cooking techniques that reflect the city’s royal and cultural heritage. The food of Peking has evolved over centuries, influenced by imperial palates, the variety of ingredients available in northern China, and the city’s vibrant street food culture.
In this article, we’ll explore Peking cuisine in detail, diving into its distinctive characteristics and highlighting some of the most iconic dishes that visitors and locals alike cannot miss.
1. The Basics of Peking Cuisine
Peking cuisine is considered one of the Eight Great Cuisines of China, known for its emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and distinctive flavors. The food of Peking tends to feature lighter, more delicate flavors than the more robust dishes found in southern China.
Key characteristics of Peking cuisine include:
- Use of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil: These ingredients form the foundation of many dishes and contribute to the deep, savory flavors of the cuisine.
- Emphasis on roasting and stir-frying: These two cooking methods dominate in Peking kitchens, as they help preserve the flavors of fresh ingredients while adding a rich, smoky char.
- Fresh, seasonal ingredients: The food is often made with ingredients that are readily available in the northern regions of China, such as wheat, poultry, pork, and root vegetables.
Now, let’s delve into the top must-try dishes that define Peking cuisine.
2. Peking Duck (北京烤鸭)
Peking Duck is the dish most closely associated with the city of Beijing. Renowned for its crispy skin and tender meat, Peking Duck is considered a culinary masterpiece. The history of this dish can be traced back to the Yuan Dynasty, and it has since become a symbol of the city’s rich gastronomic culture.
The process of preparing Peking Duck is a carefully honed art. The duck is first seasoned with a mixture of spices, air-dried, and then roasted in a special oven. The goal is to achieve perfectly crisp skin and tender meat with minimal fat. Once cooked, the duck is traditionally carved in front of diners and served with thin pancakes, scallions, and a sweet hoisin sauce. The combination of crispy skin, tender meat, and fresh accompaniments creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Many famous restaurants in Beijing, such as Quanjude and Bianyifang, have built their reputations around serving some of the best Peking Duck in the world. It’s a must-try dish that should not be missed when visiting the city.
3. Zha Jiang Mian (炸酱面)
Another signature dish in Peking cuisine is Zha Jiang Mian (fried sauce noodles). This dish is widely loved for its rich and hearty flavor. Zha Jiang Mian consists of wheat noodles topped with a savory sauce made from fermented soybean paste, pork, or beef, and often includes a variety of vegetables such as cucumbers, carrots, and bean sprouts. The sauce is thick, rich, and slightly salty, and it pairs beautifully with the chewy noodles.
The dish is both filling and comforting, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. It’s frequently enjoyed as a quick lunch or dinner and is often eaten with a side of pickled vegetables to balance out the savory flavors.
4. Jiaozi (饺子) – Chinese Dumplings
Dumplings, or Jiaozi, are a staple of Chinese cuisine, and Peking is no exception. These hand-made dumplings come with various fillings, including minced pork, beef, chicken, or vegetables. The dough is made from simple flour and water, but the filling can be a complex combination of ingredients that vary by region and preference.
In Peking, dumplings are often served as part of a family-style meal, especially during the Lunar New Year celebrations. They’re typically steamed or boiled, though fried versions also exist. Jiaozi is often eaten with soy sauce and vinegar, providing a perfect balance of flavors.
While Jiaozi is a nationwide favorite, Peking’s dumplings are distinct because of the variety of fillings and the fine craftsmanship of the dough. Whether served as a side dish or the main course, Jiaozi holds a significant place in Peking cuisine.
5. Chili Lamb Skewers (羊肉串)
A dish that reflects Beijing’s influence from the northwestern regions of China is Chili Lamb Skewers (羊肉串). This dish consists of marinated lamb pieces that are skewered, grilled, and coated with chili powder, cumin, and other spices, giving it a smoky, savory flavor with a slight spiciness.
Lamb skewers are a popular street food in Beijing, commonly found in food markets and night markets. The dish is often paired with a refreshing drink such as tea or a cold beer, making it a favorite for casual dining or late-night snacks. The smoky flavor of the grilled lamb, combined with the warmth of the spices, is a true taste of Beijing’s culinary diversity.
6. Peking Hot Pot (北京火锅)
While hot pot is found throughout China, Peking Hot Pot is a local variation that is worth trying. This communal dish involves simmering a pot of flavorful broth, often made with beef bones and a variety of herbs and spices, and then dipping thinly sliced meat, vegetables, tofu, and noodles into the hot broth. As the ingredients cook, they absorb the rich flavors of the broth.
What sets Peking Hot Pot apart is its particular emphasis on beef, which is common in northern Chinese cuisine. Unlike the more common Sichuan-style hot pot that emphasizes spicy broth, Peking Hot Pot offers a milder, yet equally flavorful experience. The dish is perfect for large groups, encouraging communal dining and conversation.
7. Lamb Kebabs (烤羊肉串)
Much like the Chili Lamb Skewers, Lamb Kebabs are another popular dish in Peking that showcase the culinary influence of the Muslim minority groups in the northern regions of China. These kebabs are marinated in a mix of cumin, chili, and garlic, then skewered and grilled to perfection.
The result is a deliciously smoky, tender, and slightly spicy meat, perfect for casual dining or eating on the go. Lamb Kebabs are typically enjoyed as a street food and are widely available in the food markets throughout Beijing, making them an iconic part of the city’s culinary offerings.
8. Beijing-style Stir-fried Liver (炸肝)
A lesser-known but highly prized dish in Beijing cuisine is Beijing-style Stir-fried Liver. This dish involves stir-frying sliced pork or lamb liver with onions, garlic, and soy sauce. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that showcases the rich umami flavor of the liver, balanced by the sweetness of the onions and the saltiness of the soy sauce.
Though this dish may not be as popular with tourists as Peking Duck, it remains a beloved comfort food for locals. It’s often served with steamed rice and is considered a nourishing, energy-boosting dish.
9. Beijing-Style Roast Meat (北京烤肉)
Beijing’s roast meat culture is far from limited to just Peking Duck. Beijing-style roast meat typically refers to various cuts of pork, beef, and chicken that are marinated, spiced, and slow-roasted to perfection. The meat is tender and flavorful, with a crisp, golden-brown skin. Often served with flatbread or steamed buns, the dish is a hearty and filling option enjoyed by locals.
Though not as globally recognized as Peking Duck, Beijing-style roast meat is still an essential part of Beijing’s culinary tradition. It often appears during banquets, family gatherings, and festivals.
10. Peking-style Dim Sum (北京点心)
Dim Sum, traditionally associated with Cantonese cuisine, has found its place in Peking food culture as well. Peking-style Dim Sum incorporates regional flavors and cooking techniques, such as steamed buns, dumplings, and small savory pastries. These bite-sized treats can be filled with a variety of ingredients, from pork to shrimp to vegetables, and are often served during tea time or as part of a multi-course meal.
Peking-style dim sum also includes specialties like baozi (steamed buns) and xiao long bao (soup dumplings), both of which offer a glimpse into the city’s approach to dim sum. Whether served as a snack or as part of a larger meal, dim sum is an essential part of Peking cuisine that should not be missed.
Conclusion
Peking cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that offers a variety of flavors, techniques, and dishes to explore. From the iconic Peking Duck to the savory comfort of Zha Jiang Mian and the spicy kick of Chili Lamb Skewers, the food of Beijing is a reflection of the city’s long history, cultural influences, and modern dining preferences.
When visiting Peking, it’s essential to sample these dishes, each one offering a unique insight into the city’s culinary heritage. Whether you’re savoring a meal at a famous restaurant or enjoying street food in a bustling market, the flavors of Peking cuisine are bound to leave a lasting impression.
