Joanna James
As one of Asia's most dynamic culinary hubs, Hong Kong is a foodie's dream come true. Here's a list of local dishes every tourist must savour during a visit to this island nation with a cuisine that's been influenced by many cultures.
Although Dim Sum is a snack that's widely served in Chinese restaurants around the world, they are poor substitutes for the authentic Hong Kong Dim Sums sold in local restaurants. As a dish that originated from Cantonese cuisine, the best variation of this juicy and flavourful snack available in Hong Kong includes Har Gau, which comes with a prawn filling and Siu Mai where prawns and other meat are both infused into the centre of the dim sum. Cheong fan is another variety of dim sum that is also called "silky rice rolls."
Also called "Roasted Goods," Sui Me is a manner in which various key staples are roasted and then served alongside sauces. Roasted pork, goose and other meat varieties all fall under this category as the cooking technique is the same. Ideal for true blue carnivores, Chinese Sui Me dishes may not be the healthiest option on Hong Kong restaurant menus but are certainly the most tempting.
As a remnant of Hong Kong's Portuguese colonization period, egg tarts are a delicacy that's revered by residents and visitors alike. Sold in local bakeries that specialize in this dish, the flaky nature of the tart and its butter flavour is what makes them a bit hit overall don't be surprised to find long queues outside Hong Kong's top egg tart bakeries as the oven-fresh tarts that crumble at every bite are in high demand.
Considered a comfort food and a street snack, curry fish balls are a great pick-me-up any time of the day. Sold via food carts and kiosks on the road and also featured in Chinese takeout and buffet menus, this ubiquitous dish is often paired with a fish Sui Mai. Savoury and spicy, curry fishballs are ideal for those who are peckish about sweet snacks.
Although it takes a considerable amount of time to prepare, clay pot dishes are one of the best lunch options for tourists on the lookout for a wholesome meal. Tai Hang's Choi's Kitchen is one of the top Hong Kong restaurants for this staple dish which features rice, eel meat and a curry made from bok choi.
Those based at Cosmo Hotel Wan Chai Hong Kong and other accommodation hubs near a high-end restaurant in Wan Chai or the Capital Cafe (where the dish was invented) must order a plate of this decadent dish for breakfast. Although the dish is hardly one of the most affordable breakfast or brunch dishes on the menu, the combination of the fluffy eggs and creamy black truffles will be difficult to resist. Served with piping hot pieces of toast, it is a filling and nutritious first meal for those in search of something unique and local.
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