Must-Try Foods and Specialty Products at Chenghuang Miao
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Chenghuang Miao, or City God Temple, is one of the most iconic cultural and culinary destinations in Shanghai. Located in the heart of the city's Old Town, this historical area is famous for its traditional architecture, bustling markets, and, most importantly, its incredible variety of local delicacies and specialty products. For food lovers and travelers seeking an authentic taste of Shanghai, Chenghuang Miao offers a paradise of flavors, from savory street snacks to unique souvenirs.
No visit to Chenghuang Miao is complete without trying xiao long bao, the world-famous soup dumplings. These delicate dumplings, filled with juicy pork and a rich broth, are steamed to perfection in bamboo baskets. The key to enjoying xiao long bao is to bite a small hole in the dumpling skin, sip the flavorful soup inside, and then eat the dumpling whole.
At Chenghuang Miao, one of the most famous places to enjoy xiao long bao is Nanxiang Mantou Dian, a historic restaurant that has been serving these dumplings for generations. The restaurant offers different varieties, including classic pork-filled dumplings and versions with crab roe for an extra layer of richness.
For a crispier alternative to xiao long bao, sheng jian bao is another must-try snack at Chenghuang Miao. These dumplings are pan-fried to create a golden, crispy bottom while maintaining a juicy and flavorful filling inside. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the tender, soupy interior makes them incredibly satisfying.
Many street vendors and small eateries around Chenghuang Miao specialize in sheng jian bao, often serving them fresh off the pan. Be careful when taking your first bite, as the hot soup inside can easily spill out!
A popular breakfast item in Shanghai, ci fan tuan is a sticky rice roll filled with crispy youtiao (fried dough), preserved vegetables, and sometimes sweet or savory fillings. This combination of textures and flavors makes it a delicious and filling snack, perfect for enjoying while exploring the bustling streets of Chenghuang Miao.
For those with a sweet tooth, tang gao is a delightful treat found in many street stalls around Chenghuang Miao. These rice cakes are deep-fried until crispy on the outside while remaining soft and chewy on the inside. Often dusted with sugar or filled with sweet bean paste, they make for a tasty and satisfying snack.
Another traditional sweet dish, ba bao fan, is made from glutinous rice and topped with eight different ingredients, including red bean paste, lotus seeds, dried fruits, and nuts. The dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a popular choice for visitors looking to try authentic Shanghai desserts.
Unlike the Cantonese-style turnip cake found in dim sum restaurants, the Shanghai version of lu bo gao is often served as a crispy pan-fried street snack. Made from shredded radish, rice flour, and seasonings, it has a crunchy texture and a savory umami flavor, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Despite its name, xie ke huang does not actually contain crab. Instead, this pastry gets its name from its golden-brown, flaky exterior, which resembles the shell of a crab. The filling can vary, with options such as sweet red bean paste, black sesame, or savory pork. These pastries are a great snack to take on the go while exploring Chenghuang Miao.
Tofu lovers should not miss you dou fu, a crispy fried tofu dish often served with a flavorful dipping sauce. This snack is light, crunchy, and pairs perfectly with the bustling atmosphere of the temple market.
For a simple yet incredibly tasty snack, cong you bing is a must-try. These crispy, flaky scallion pancakes are made from dough mixed with fresh scallions and then pan-fried until golden brown. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water as you walk through the streets of Chenghuang Miao.
For those looking for a more substantial meal, lu shui ya is a delicious choice. This braised duck dish is marinated in a flavorful soy sauce-based broth with spices, resulting in tender, aromatic meat with a rich, savory taste. Many food stalls sell it either whole or in smaller portions, making it easy to enjoy as a quick bite.
In addition to its amazing food, Chenghuang Miao is also a fantastic place to shop for specialty products and souvenirs. Here are some of the top items to bring home as a memento of your visit:
Many of the delicious pastries and snacks found at Chenghuang Miao, such as xie ke huang and ba bao fan, can be purchased in beautifully packaged boxes, making them perfect gifts for friends and family. Some well-known pastry shops offer fresh, high-quality treats that are great for souvenirs.
Shanghai has a rich tea culture, and Chenghuang Miao is home to several tea shops selling premium varieties such as long jing cha (Dragon Well Tea) and bi luo chun. These teas make for an excellent gift or personal keepsake, allowing you to take a piece of Shanghai’s tea tradition home with you.
Shanghai has long been known for its silk industry, and Chenghuang Miao is a great place to find silk scarves, clothing, and bedding. These high-quality products showcase traditional craftsmanship and make elegant gifts for loved ones.
Art lovers will appreciate the selection of Chinese calligraphy and paintings available at Chenghuang Miao. Many local artists sell their work, including hand-painted scrolls featuring traditional Chinese landscapes, poetry, and calligraphy.
A beautiful and functional souvenir, handcrafted fans are available in a variety of designs, from simple bamboo fans to elaborate silk fans adorned with intricate patterns and paintings.
Shanghai’s history is deeply connected to traditional blue and white porcelain, and visitors can find exquisite ceramic tea sets, plates, and vases featuring classic Chinese motifs.
For those interested in wellness, Chenghuang Miao has several stores specializing in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Popular herbal remedies, ginseng, and medicinal teas can be found here, offering a glimpse into China’s ancient healing traditions.
A trip to Chenghuang Miao is an unforgettable culinary and cultural experience. Whether you’re indulging in world-famous xiao long bao, savoring crispy sheng jian bao, or shopping for silk and porcelain, this vibrant marketplace captures the essence of Shanghai’s rich history and food culture. If you find yourself in Shanghai, make sure to explore Chenghuang Miao and immerse yourself in its delicious offerings and fascinating traditions.
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Author: Shanghai Travel
Source: Shanghai Travel
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