Joanna James
Beijing, the historic capital of China, is a city where culinary tradition and imperial heritage meet. The city’s cuisine, rooted in centuries of royal influence and northern Chinese flavours, offers an array of unforgettable dishes that reflect its rich history and cultural significance. From the world-famous Peking Duck to humble yet delicious street food, these iconic Beijing dishes capture the essence of Chinese cuisine.
No dish represents Beijing better than Peking Duck, a delicacy that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. This roasted duck, with its crispy, golden-brown skin and succulent meat, is traditionally served with thin pancakes, spring onions, cucumber, and sweet bean sauce. Skilled chefs carve the duck tableside, ensuring a balance of flavours and textures in every bite. When checking out the best restaurants in Beijing, also look for one that serves this succulent dish.
A staple of Beijing cuisine, Zhajiangmian consists of thick, hand-pulled wheat noodles topped with a rich, savoury sauce made from fermented soybean paste (zhajiang), stir-fried minced pork or beef, and fresh vegetables. This simple yet flavorful dish embodies northern China's love for wheat-based foods and is a favourite among locals for its hearty taste and satisfying texture. Many locals consider Zhajiangmian the ultimate comfort food, often enjoying it at small noodle shops or home-style eateries.
Although hotpot is enjoyed across China, Mongolian Hotpot holds a special place in Beijing’s food culture. Introduced by Mongol rulers during the Yuan Dynasty, this dish features thinly sliced lamb cooked in a simmering pot of broth, along with vegetables, tofu, and dipping sauces. The experience of sharing a bubbling hotpot meal is a beloved Beijing tradition, particularly during the colder months. Classic hotpot restaurants serve the authentic version with a sesame-based dipping sauce that enhances the flavour of the tender meat.
Dumplings, or jiaozi, are an essential part of Beijing’s culinary identity. These handmade dumplings, filled with pork, beef, or vegetables, are either boiled, steamed, or pan-fried, each method offering a unique texture. In Beijing, dumplings are not just food but a symbol of family gatherings, especially during the Lunar New Year. Many locals enjoy them dipped in vinegar and garlic sauce for an extra punch of flavour. Some of the best dumpling houses in the city serve colourful, creative variations stuffed with everything from shrimp to mushrooms. Ensure you add this culinary creation to your foodie adventures along with gourmet dim sum, which can be enjoyed at restaurants of hotels like Pan Pacific Beijing.
Despite its unusual name, Donkey Burger (Lurou Huoshao) is one of Beijing’s most popular street foods. Originating from Hebei Province but now beloved in the capital, this dish consists of slow-cooked donkey meat stuffed inside a crispy, toasted flatbread. The tender, slightly sweet meat is often topped with fresh cilantro and green peppers, creating an unexpected but delicious combination. Many locals claim, “In heaven, there is dragon meat; on Earth, there is donkey meat,” highlighting its prized taste! It is commonly found in small eateries and night markets across Beijing.
Unlike the lighter, delicate versions found in southern China, Beijing-style wonton soup is heartier, with thicker dumpling wrappers and a robust, flavourful broth. The wontons, filled with seasoned pork and scallions, are boiled and served in a fragrant, slightly peppery broth with seaweed and cilantro. This comforting dish is a common breakfast staple, loved for its warmth and simplicity, and is widely available in local noodle shops.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
