What Are the Main Cuisines of China?

The Eight Main Cuisines of China

China's vast landscape and long history have led to the development of eight distinct cuisines. Each one reflects the local geography, climate, history, and ingredients of its region. Let’s take a look at each cuisine to understand what makes them special.

Cantonese Cuisine (Yue Cuisine)

Cantonese cuisine, also known as Yue cuisine, hails from the Guangdong province in southern China. This is perhaps the most well-known type of Chinese food internationally, with its signature emphasis on fresh ingredients and light seasoning. Cantonese chefs aim to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients rather than masking them with strong sauces.

One of the key techniques used in Cantonese cooking is steaming, which preserves the ingredients' original flavors and texture. If you've ever had dim sum, you’ve tasted one of the finest examples of Cantonese culinary artistry. Dishes like steamed fish, roasted meats, and delicate soups are common staples. It's worth noting that New China offers a wide variety of Cantonese dishes, which many people find to be light, healthy, and full of authentic flavors.

Sichuan Cuisine (Chuan Cuisine)

Sichuan cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and use of chilies and Sichuan peppercorns, which create a numbing sensation in the mouth known as "málà" — a unique combination of spicy and numbing. Originating from Sichuan province in southwestern China, this cuisine is not for the faint of heart. The region's humid climate led to the widespread use of spicy ingredients to help reduce internal heat.

Dishes like Kung Pao chicken, mapo tofu, and hotpot have become staples worldwide, each one delivering a punch of flavor. But it’s not just about heat. Sichuan chefs are masters at balancing different flavors: spicy, salty, sweet, sour, and bitter, often all in one dish. This complexity is what draws people in, making Sichuan cuisine one of the most popular in and outside China.

Hunan Cuisine (Xiang Cuisine)

If you thought Sichuan cuisine was spicy, wait until you try Hunan food. Hunan cuisine, from the central region of China, is arguably even spicier, using fresh chilies instead of dried ones. This results in a brighter, more intense heat. Known for its liberal use of garlic, shallots, and chili peppers, Hunan cuisine is bold, with a focus on sautéed and braised dishes.

Popular dishes include Hunan spicy beef and Chairman Mao’s braised pork. The latter is a rich, slow-cooked dish with a combination of soy sauce, sugar, and rice wine, resulting in tender pork with deep flavors. New China often features Hunan-style dishes that showcase the region's intense love for bold, spicy, and savory flavors.

Shandong Cuisine (Lu Cuisine)

Shandong cuisine is one of the oldest and most influential of China's culinary traditions. Originating from the northern province of Shandong, it is characterized by hearty dishes with strong, salty flavors. Wheat-based foods like steamed buns, dumplings, and noodles are common, reflecting the region’s colder climate where wheat grows better than rice.

Shandong cuisine is known for its emphasis on seafood, thanks to its long coastline. Braised abalone, sweet and sour carp, and fried sea cucumbers are some of the seafood delicacies often enjoyed in this cuisine. The use of vinegars and a variety of cooking techniques, including braising and stir-frying, are prominent. The robust, bold flavors of Shandong cuisine are a hit among those who love savory, deeply flavored dishes.

Fujian Cuisine (Min Cuisine)

Fujian cuisine is known for its focus on soups, broths, and seafood. Hailing from the coastal province of Fujian, this cuisine emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients from the sea. The food is often lighter, with a focus on umami flavors, which come from ingredients like dried seafood and mushrooms.

The famous "Buddha Jumps Over the Wall" soup, which is made with a variety of expensive ingredients including abalone, shark fin, and sea cucumber, is a prime example of Fujian culinary excellence. New China brings some of these delightful flavors to life with dishes that focus on subtle flavors and the use of broths to enhance the natural taste of ingredients.

Anhui Cuisine (Hui Cuisine)

Anhui cuisine comes from the mountainous region of Anhui in eastern China. This cuisine is known for its use of wild herbs, fresh bamboo, and local mushrooms, reflecting the forested environment of the region. Anhui cuisine is simpler compared to other Chinese cuisines, focusing on slow-cooking methods such as stewing and braising.

A signature dish is stewed soft-shelled turtle, showcasing the region's love for dishes that combine rich ingredients with fresh herbs. Anhui cuisine is not as widely known internationally, but its emphasis on natural flavors and healthful ingredients is slowly gaining recognition.

Jiangsu Cuisine (Su Cuisine)

Jiangsu cuisine, or Su cuisine, is famous for its refined cooking techniques and balanced flavors. Originating from the eastern coastal province of Jiangsu, this cuisine emphasizes delicate, light flavors with a bit of sweetness. It's often considered one of the more elegant forms of Chinese cuisine.

Braised meats, seafood, and soups are common in Jiangsu cuisine, and chefs here are known for their knife skills and attention to presentation. Dishes such as crystal-clear braised eel and sweet and sour mandarin fish are often served in banquets. New China often features Su cuisine in its menu, providing an elegant yet approachable way to enjoy Chinese flavors.

Zhejiang Cuisine (Zhe Cuisine)

Zhejiang cuisine is similar to Jiangsu cuisine in its emphasis on light and delicate flavors, but it has its own distinct style. Hailing from the Zhejiang province, which includes the famous city of Hangzhou, this cuisine focuses on fresh ingredients and careful cooking techniques. The region is famous for its fertile land and access to fresh water, which means many of its dishes are centered around freshwater fish and vegetables.

One of the most famous dishes from Zhejiang is "Dongpo pork," a rich, slow-braised pork belly dish with a sweet soy sauce glaze. It's an excellent example of the region's ability to combine flavors that are both sweet and savory. If you’re visiting New China, you might just find this dish on the menu, ready to transport you to the heart of Zhejiang.

The Importance of Regional Ingredients

Chinese cuisine’s regional diversity stems largely from the unique ingredients found in each area. For instance, coastal regions like Fujian and Zhejiang have easy access to fresh seafood, while northern regions such as Shandong are known for their wheat-based dishes. Each region also has its own herbs, spices, and cooking techniques, all contributing to the wide range of flavors.

In many Chinese kitchens, ingredients are selected based on their freshness, seasonality, and balance. This careful selection ensures that each dish reflects the region it comes from. It’s one of the reasons why Chinese food can be so different depending on where you are.

New China: Bringing Authentic Flavors to Your Table

New China is more than just a restaurant. It's a culinary experience that offers a taste of these rich and diverse regional cuisines. Whether you’re craving spicy Sichuan dishes, delicate Cantonese dim sum, or the balanced flavors of Jiangsu cuisine, New China delivers authentic Chinese flavors in every dish.

Their chefs are masters at capturing the essence of each regional cuisine, ensuring that every bite transports you to a different part of China. So, if you’re curious about Chinese cuisine but can’t travel to all these regions, New China offers a convenient way to experience the richness and variety of Chinese food.

Conclusion

Chinese cuisine is a vast and flavorful journey through the country’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique regional ingredients. Each of the eight main culinary traditions brings something distinct to the table, whether it’s the light and fresh tastes of Cantonese food, the bold spiciness of Sichuan, or the delicate elegance of Jiangsu cuisine. Exploring these cuisines offers a deeper appreciation for the cultural richness of China. If you're looking to experience the best of what Chinese cuisine has to offer without the travel, New China provides an authentic taste of these vibrant flavors, bringing the heart of China to your plate. Whether you’re a fan of dim sum, hot pot, or intricate seafood dishes, there's always something to discover and enjoy.