Hebei Province boasts a rich culinary heritage with a variety of iconic dishes. Here is a curated list of the top 10 famous dishes from Hebei, based on popular votes and historical significance.
1. Jingdong Braised Pork Knuckle (京东煨肘子)
A signature dish from Tangshan, Hebei, this braised pork knuckle is cooked with a rich broth, red dates, goji berries, and a blend of seasonings. The result is tender, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth. It's known for its health benefits, particularly for bone strength.
2. Cangzhou Lion's Head (沧州狮子头)
Named after the "Lion City" of Cangzhou, this dish features large meatballs made with minced pork and lotus root, deep-fried to a crispy exterior while remaining juicy inside. It can be served braised or steamed.
3. Stir-Fried Pork Kidney (溜腰花)
A Cantonese-inspired dish popular in Hebei, this stir-fried pork kidney is crispy and aromatic, cooked with bell peppers and a savory sauce. It’s a favorite for its rich flavor and nutritional value.
4. Chicken with Shrimp (鸡里蹦)
A historic dish dating back to the Qing Dynasty, this combines tender chicken and fresh shrimp stir-fried with sweet bean sauce. Its unique name comes from the lively movement of shrimp during cooking.
5. White Jade Chicken (白玉鸡脯)
Originating from Baoding, this dish features tender chicken breast with a delicate, jade-like appearance. It’s praised for its mild flavor and high protein content.
6. Baoding Crispy Pork Knuckle (保定锅包肘子)
A crispy, deep-fried pork knuckle with a history tied to the imperial court. It was a favorite of Empress Dowager Cixi and remains a popular dish for its crunchy texture and rich taste.
7. Shijiazhuang Golden Lion Fish (石家庄金毛狮子鱼)
A visually stunning dish made with crispy fried carp shaped like a lion’s mane. It’s sweet, sour, and packed with nutrients, making it a Hebei classic.
8. Li Hongzhang Stew (李鸿章烩菜)
A luxurious stew with seafood, meats, and vegetables, created for the famous Qing Dynasty statesman Li Hongzhang. It’s rich in flavor and history.
9. Governor’s Tofu (总督豆腐)
A refined tofu dish enhanced with dried scallops and shrimp roe, named after Li Hongzhang’s preference. It’s creamy, savory, and nutritious.
10. Imperial Crispy Fish (圣旨骨酥鱼)
A legendary dish from Handan, this fish is so tender that even the bones are edible. It was once an imperial delicacy and remains a culinary marvel.
These dishes represent the best of Hebei’s cuisine, blending history, flavor, and nutrition.
