Beijing is not only a city full of history and culture but also a city bursting with flavors. The food scene in Beijing is vibrant, offering both traditional dishes that have been passed down for generations and new takes on ancient recipes. If you’re visiting Beijing, here are 6 must-try foods that should be on your list for an authentic culinary experience.
When it comes to Beijing cuisine, no dish is more famous than Peking Duck. Peking Duck is known for its crispy, golden skin, which is perfectly roasted to achieve a delicate balance of crispiness and tenderness. The duck itself is carved at the table, and traditionally, it’s served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and sliced scallions, allowing you to wrap the duck into a delightful bite-sized parcel.
Thinly sliced lamb is cooked in a bubbling pot of broth. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the interactive dining experience it offers. Mutton Hotpot is meant to be shared with family or friends, making it a great communal meal. The dipping sauces, often consisting of sesame paste, garlic, and chili, allow you to add your own personal touch to the dish. This meal is more than just food; it’s an experience where everyone gathers around the pot, sharing stories and enjoying the flavors together.
This traditional Chinese snack consists of skewered fruit, typically hawthorn berries, coated in sugar syrup. It’s sweet, crunchy, and a delightful treat to enjoy while strolling through the streets of Beijing. You’ll often find Tanghulu during the winter months, but it’s available year-round, making it a perfect treat after a day of exploring.
Beijing-style noodles, known as Zha Jiangmian, is a hearty dish of thick noodles topped with a rich, savory sauce made from soybean paste, minced pork, and vegetables. The thick, savory sauce is what gives the dish its rich flavor, making it both hearty and satisfying. The beauty of Zha Jiang Mian lies in its simplicity and the combination of flavors. While it may sound like a simple dish, the depth of flavor in Zha Jiang Mian is what makes it a true Beijing classic. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite at a local restaurant or sitting down for a hearty meal, Zha Jiang Mian is a must-try for anyone visiting Beijing.
The best part? It’s perfect for sharing, making it an excellent choice for family-style dining.🧑🧑🧒
For those seeking a plant-based option, Vegetarian Meatballs are a delicious choice. These bite-sized balls are made from vegetables, tofu, and sometimes mushrooms, deep-fried to perfection and served with a savory dipping sauce. It’s a satisfying snack or side dish, offering a lighter, yet equally tasty alternative to meat-heavy dishes.
After a satisfying meal, consider joining Our Beijing’s Bike Tours to explore the historical hutongs of Beijing, where you’ll learn more about the city’s culture and heritage.
Jianbing is a beloved breakfast staple in Beijing and one of the best ways to start your day. It’s essentially a savory crepe made fresh right in front of you on a hot griddle. The batter, made from mung bean flour, is spread thin and crisped up until golden, while an egg is cracked on top and spread evenly across the surface. It’s then sprinkled with a variety of fillings, such as crispy wontons, fresh herbs, and pickled vegetables.
But the fun doesn’t stop there — you can customize your Jianbing to your liking by adding a choice of proteins like sausage, chicken, or even beef. A dash of chili sauce or hoisin sauce is also common, giving it that extra flavor kick. The result is a crispy, savory, and satisfying treat, perfect for breakfast or any time of the day. Whether you’re enjoying it on a bustling Beijing street corner or at a local food stall, Jianbing is a must-try for any visitor.
Explore More with Our Beijing’s Foodie Tours✨
If you’re a food lover, the best way to experience these amazing dishes is by booking one of Our Beijing’s Foodie Tours.
Our tours will guide you through Beijing’s hidden food spots and local eateries where you can enjoy these dishes in their authentic settings. Whether you’re interested in tasting Peking Duck, street food, or traditional Beijing hot pot, Our Beijing has a tour for you.😋
Book your tour and get ready for an unforgettable culinary adventure in Beijing!