Shunde, a section of Foshan city in Guangdong province, is a lesser-known treasure in the Pearl River Delta region. This captivating area has built a reputation as the origin of Cantonese cooking, producing some of China's and the world's most skilled kitchen professionals.

Alongside its food fame, Shunde presents a mix of contemporary city living and age-old traditions. The area features attractive gardens, old temples, and modern art galleries, creating an ideal setting for both food fans and those interested in cultural experiences.

• Shunde stands out as a food lover's paradise, famed for its refined Cantonese cooking and inventive culinary methods
• The area has a deep-rooted food heritage, earning its title as the "Birthplace of Chinese Culinary Masters"
• Visitors can savor signature creations like the unique double-layer milk dessert and perfectly steamed fish while browsing local food markets and dining streets

Why is Shunde's food so remarkable

Shunde's culinary excellence isn't a recent development - it's steeped in centuries of tradition. The area's recognition as the "Birthplace of Chinese Culinary Masters" is well-deserved. Many top-tier Cantonese chefs worldwide started their careers in Shunde's kitchens.

The uniqueness of Shunde's cuisine lies in its focus on fresh, top-quality ingredients and creative cooking methods. Local chefs are known for their skill in bringing out ingredients' natural tastes without overpowering them with heavy sauces or spices.

A standout dish from Shunde is double-layer milk. This dessert showcases the area's culinary creativity. It's crafted by forming two layers of milk skin, resulting in an incredibly smooth texture that's hard to resist.

Fish also takes center stage in Shunde cuisine. The area's proximity to the Pearl River Delta ensures a constant supply of fresh fish. Steamed fish, prepared with minimal seasoning to showcase its natural flavor, is a must-try dish.

Best places to eat in Shunde

For a taste of Shunde's finest food, visit the Daliang subdistrict. This area is filled with restaurants and food stalls offering local specialties.

One spot you shouldn't skip is Guo Ran Ju. This well-known restaurant is located in a traditional grand house and is famous for its fish sashimi and soya sauce chicken.

Sweet-toothed visitors should head to Mingxin. Their fried milk and double-layer milk are local favorites that will satisfy any dessert craving.

For those watching their budget, don't worry! Shunde's street food scene is just as impressive as its upscale restaurants. A stroll through the local markets will reveal plenty of affordable and tasty options.

A food lover's day in Shunde

Begin your day with a traditional Cantonese breakfast at a local dim sum spot. Steamed shrimp dumplings (har gow) and pork dumplings (siu mai) are classic choices.

For lunch, try a seafood restaurant and order the steamed fish. Remember, in Shunde, less is more - the fish is often cooked with just a touch of soy sauce and ginger to bring out its natural taste.

In the afternoon, take a walk through Qinghui Garden, one of Guangdong's most beautiful classical gardens. It's an ideal place to digest your lunch and prepare for more eating!

For dinner, sample a traditional Shunde-style hotpot. Unlike spicy Sichuan hotpots, Shunde versions focus on clear broths that allow the flavors of fresh ingredients to shine.

Finish your day at a local dessert shop for some double-layer milk. It's the perfect sweet finale to a day of food exploration.

Eating like a Shunde local

To fully experience Shunde's food culture, try eating like a local. Here are some tips:

1. Use your hands when appropriate: Some dishes, like crab, are best enjoyed with your fingers.
2. Be open to new tastes: Shunde cuisine uses all parts of animals and plants, so keep an open mind.
3. Take your time: Meals in Shunde can involve many courses, so enjoy each dish at a leisurely pace.

Keep in mind that in Shunde, food is more than just nourishment - it's an art form and a way of life. Take time to appreciate the care and skill put into each dish.

Shunde's food culture beyond the plate

Shunde's food culture extends past just eating. The area is also known for its unique food-related traditions and industries.

An interesting aspect is the "Comb Sister" culture that emerged in Shunde during the late Ming Dynasty. These women, who chose to stay single, often worked in the silk industry and created their own culinary traditions.

Shunde is also well-known for its kitchenware industry. Many of the works and other cooking tools used in Chinese kitchens worldwide are made here.

Taking Shunde flavors home

Want to recreate some Shunde tastes in your own kitchen? Here are some key ingredients to look for:

• Fresh fish (especially grass carp)
• High-quality soy sauce
• Fresh ginger and scallions
• Buffalo milk (for making double-layer milk)

Remember, Shunde cuisine focuses on simplicity and allowing the natural flavors of ingredients to stand out. Keep your dishes straightforward!

Organizing your Shunde food trip

The ideal time to visit Shunde is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor food adventures.

Getting around Shunde is simple thanks to its well-developed public transportation system. Buses and taxis are readily available, making it easy to move from one food spot to another.

For accommodation, Shunde has options for every budget. From high-end hotels to wallet-friendly guesthouses, you'll find something that fits your needs.

FAQs

What food is Shunde best known for?

Shunde is best known for its Cantonese cuisine, particularly dishes like double-layer milk dessert, steamed fish, and various dim sum items. The area is also called the "Birthplace of Chinese Culinary Masters" due to the many skilled chefs who started their careers here.

Is Shunde costly to visit?

While Shunde has some upscale dining options, it's generally an affordable destination for food enthusiasts. There are many budget-friendly local eateries and street food options that offer tasty and authentic Shunde cuisine at reasonable prices.

How much time should I spend in Shunde to experience its food culture?

A visit of 3-4 days would give you a good taste of Shunde's food culture. This would allow you to try a variety of local dishes, visit food markets, and perhaps even take a cooking class to learn more about Cantonese cuisine.