Chinese street food is as diverse and fascinating as the country itself. From the bustling streets of Beijing to the neon-lit alleys of Shanghai, street food in China offers a mouthwatering mix of flavors, textures, and sometimes, surprises! While some dishes may seem familiar to the average traveler, others can truly be considered “weird” by Western standards. However, it’s this uniqueness that makes Chinese street food a must-try for anyone looking to experience the heart of Chinese culture.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the weirdest Chinese street food dishes that will both intrigue and challenge your taste buds.
What Makes Chinese Street Food Weird?
Chinese street food isn’t just about the taste—it’s also about the presentation and the variety of ingredients used. These dishes often reflect the country’s rich history, cultural diversity, and unique culinary traditions. From offbeat snacks made with unfamiliar ingredients to bold flavor combinations, the street food scene in China is far from ordinary.
Let’s dive into the weird, the wonderful, and the sometimes bizarre street food dishes you might encounter in China!
1. Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐)
What Is Stinky Tofu?
Stinky tofu is one of the most famous and polarizing street food snacks in China. This deep-fried treat is made from fermented tofu that has a pungent smell—hence the name “stinky.” Despite its strong odor, it’s a favorite among many locals and can be found in night markets and street stalls across the country.
Why Is It Weird?
The smell of stinky tofu is notoriously strong, which can be off-putting to some. However, the taste is surprisingly mild and delicious, with a crispy golden exterior and soft, slightly tangy interior. Served with pickled cabbage or chili sauce, it’s an acquired taste that’s worth trying if you’re feeling adventurous!
2. Century Eggs (皮蛋)
What Are Century Eggs?
Also known as “hundred-year eggs,” century eggs are duck or quail eggs that have been preserved through a unique fermentation process. The eggs are coated in a mixture of clay, ash, and lime before being left to mature for several weeks or months.
Why Are They Weird?
When you crack open a century egg, the yolk is a deep green or even black, and the egg white has turned into a jelly-like texture. The taste is earthy, pungent, and slightly salty. Many first-timers are taken aback by the strong flavor, but it’s a delicacy in China, often served with pickled ginger or tofu.
3. Scorpions on a Stick (蜈蚣串)
What Are Scorpions on a Stick?
For the truly adventurous, scorpions on a stick might be the ultimate Chinese street food challenge. These crunchy critters are deep-fried and skewered on sticks, ready to be eaten on the go. They are often sold in popular tourist spots like Beijing’s Wangfujing Street.
Why Are They Weird?
Scorpions are not commonly eaten in many parts of the world, which is why this dish can be so shocking. Despite their intimidating appearance, scorpions are crunchy and have a subtle, nutty flavor. They are typically served with a sprinkle of chili powder and other seasonings to add some heat.
4. Fried Silkworms (蚕蛹)
What Are Fried Silkworms?
Another common insect-based street food in China is fried silkworms. These larvae are fried until crispy and are often served as a snack or appetizer. They’re typically sold in street markets and night markets, where they’re displayed in a large pan or on skewers.
Why Are They Weird?
Silkworms may be a familiar sight in Chinese culture, but for most people, the idea of eating larvae is downright weird. The texture is soft yet crunchy, and they have a rich, earthy flavor. While they may not be for everyone, they’re considered a nutritious and affordable snack in many parts of China.
5. Hot Pot with Live Shrimp (活虾火锅)
What Is Hot Pot with Live Shrimp?
Hot pot is a traditional Chinese dish where diners cook their ingredients in a bubbling pot of broth at the table. However, some street vendors take it a step further by offering live shrimp that are placed directly into the hot pot while they’re still squirming!
Why Is It Weird?
The idea of eating live shrimp can be unsettling to many, especially those unfamiliar with the practice. Watching the shrimp squirm in the broth before they’re served is not for the faint-hearted. However, for those who enjoy fresh seafood, it’s an exciting and unique way to experience Chinese hot pot.
6. Blood Tofu (血豆腐)
What Is Blood Tofu?
Blood tofu, or blood curd, is a dish made from coagulated pig’s blood that is sliced into cubes and cooked in savory broth. It’s often served in soups or stir-fries and is a popular street food item in China.
Why Is It Weird?
For many Westerners, the idea of eating blood in any form can be off-putting. The texture of blood tofu is similar to that of regular tofu, but it carries a strong, rich flavor that some may find challenging. It’s often paired with other ingredients like herbs, chili, and soy sauce to enhance its taste.
7. Grilled Sea Cucumber (海参烧烤)
What Is Grilled Sea Cucumber?
Sea cucumbers are marine animals that resemble cucumbers but have a gelatinous texture. In China, grilled sea cucumber is a popular street food, often served with spices and sauces. Vendors grill them over an open flame, creating a smoky, savory snack.
Why Is It Weird?
The texture of sea cucumber is unlike anything most people are used to. It’s slippery, chewy, and often considered an acquired taste. The flavor is mild but rich, and it takes on the spices and seasonings it’s grilled with. If you’re not a fan of unusual textures, this might be a tough one to try.
8. Snake Soup (蛇汤)
What Is Snake Soup?
Snake soup is a delicacy made from various types of snakes, including water snake and python. The snakes are simmered in a rich broth with a variety of herbs and spices, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic soup.
Why Is It Weird?
For many, the thought of eating snake can be quite strange. The meat is tender and somewhat similar to chicken, but with a distinct, slightly gamey flavor. Snake soup is often served as a health tonic, believed to have medicinal properties in traditional Chinese medicine.
9. Donkey Meat Sandwich (驴肉火烧)
What Is Donkey Meat Sandwich?
Donkey meat is a lesser-known meat in the Western world, but in China, it’s considered a delicacy, especially in parts of northern China. Donkey meat is slow-cooked to perfection and served in a sandwich-like bread known as “huoshao.”
Why Is It Weird?
While donkey meat may sound unusual to some, it’s a popular street food in China, especially in the city of Baoding. The meat is tender and has a slightly sweet, rich flavor. The combination of the meat with the fluffy, warm bread makes for a hearty, filling meal.
Conclusion
Chinese street food offers some of the most unique culinary experiences in the world. From stinky tofu to scorpions on a stick, the dishes we’ve explored in this article are definitely on the weird side, but they are also part of China’s deep-rooted food culture. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, embracing these oddball street foods is a great way to dive into the heart of Chinese gastronomy.
Next time you’re in China, why not push your taste buds to the limit and give some of these weird dishes a try? After all, it’s all part of the fun of exploring a new culture through food!
