Chinese Foods That Aren't Terrible

 

I don’t love Chinese food. It can be too spicy, a strange texture, or if you have ever smelt stinky tofu, you would have immediately lost your appetite. However, there are some solid Chinese foods you should try. This is only Shanghai focused since I did not travel to many other places to have a strong opinion on different parts of China’s cuisine. But from what I am told, South China is more exotic and flavourful; West China is spicy and adventurous; East China is delicate and traditional; North China Cis tasty and wholesome.

 

Let’s start with my favourite Chinese food:

 

Street eggplant

 

I don’t remember ever enjoying eggplant before eating on the streets of Shanghai. The fact that the eggplant was warm with different flavours and seasonings made me fall in love. Eating this food after a night out also might have helped the deliciousness factor. Unfortunately, the number of people selling street food in Shanghai decreased dramatically but if you ever get the chance to try this, go for it.

 

My top breakfast choice:

Jian Bing

Most Asian countries do not excel in their breakfast choices but you can usually find something to fill you up in the morning. Not only is Jian Bing delectable, it’s super cheap.

Best dumplings:

Xiaolongbao

I crave this Chinese food the most since leaving Shanghai. There was a little restaurant right next to my apartment where I would order some extremely cheap Xiaolongbao, drink a Sprite, and plan for my next Couchsurfing arrival.

Tomato and egg stir fry

I don’t know why this works. Tomatoes are not the best but something about putting them together was a genius move.

 

Best soup:

Beef noodle soup

There was a great beef noodle place near my apartment that was blissful and affordable. I’m not sure if my opinions on food is being skewed by my low income and lower social status but this will fill you up.

Spicy cumin lamb skewers

I was reluctant to try these because I heard rumours that some of the meat might not be what you think it is but a friend assured me it was legit and this was a tasty treat after finishing lacrosse.

 

Chinese hamburger Rou Jia Mo

There was a Halal restaurant that served this and while it was delectable, just make sure you were close to a bathroom shortly after finishing this snack.

Or order up some spring rolls, chicken balls, and a fortune cookie from your local Chinese restaurant and tell them Bert sent you. 

“Enjoy yourself. It’s later than you think.” Carl Sigman