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What to Eat: Henan Traditional Foods | A Taste of Central China
Nestled in the heart of China, Henan province is not only the cradle of Chinese civilization but also a treasure trove of culinary delights. With a history spanning over 5,000 years, Henan cuisine (known as “Y 豫菜” or Yu Cai) has evolved into a distinct style characterized by its “five flavors 调和” (harmonious blend of five tastes) and “质味适中” (moderate texture and flavor).
From steaming bowls of spicy soup that warm you to the core on a cold morning to elaborate banquets fit for emperors, Henan’s traditional foods offer a journey through China’s rich history and culture. Let’s explore the must-try dishes that make Henan a food lover’s paradise.
1. 河南烩面 (Henan Lamb Soup Noodles)
The undisputed king of Henan cuisine, 河南烩面 (Henan Lamb Soup Noodles) is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural institution. This hearty dish consists of hand-pulled wheat noodles swimming in a rich, milky broth made by simmering lamb bones and meat for hours with a secret blend of over seven Chinese herbs.
What makes it special:
- The noodles: Hand-pulled and chewy, with a satisfying texture that soaks up the flavorful broth.
- The broth: Simmered for 5+ hours until it turns milky white, packed with umami from the lamb and herbs.
- The toppings: Typically includes tender lamb slices, tofu skin, seaweed, cilantro, quail eggs, and sometimes even seafood like squid or sea cucumber.
Where to try it:
Head to 合记烩面馆 (He Ji Hui Mian Guan) in Zhengzhou, a famous establishment since 1953 that has perfected this classic dish. Their version won the “China Famous Snack” award in 1997.
Pro tip:
Start by sipping the broth to appreciate its depth of flavor, then mix in some chili oil and pickled garlic from the side dishes provided.
2. 胡辣汤 (Hu La Tang – Spicy Soup)
No Henan breakfast is complete without a steaming bowl of 胡辣汤 (Hu La Tang), a fiery soup that kickstarts the day with its bold flavors. Originating from 西华逍遥镇 (Xihua Xiaoyao Town) in Zhoukou, this iconic soup has been warming Henan stomachs for centuries.
What’s in it:
A thick, spicy broth loaded with ingredients like:
- Beef or lamb cubes
- Tofu
- Black fungus
- Daylily buds
- Vermicelli noodles
- A generous dose of Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil
Regional variations:
- 逍遥镇胡辣汤 (Xiaoyao Town style): Thicker consistency with more noodles.
- 北舞渡胡辣汤 (Beiwudu style): Clearer broth with more meat.
- 邓州胡辣汤 (Dengzhou style): Tangier and spicier than other versions.
Where to try it:
Look for street vendors in any Henan city early in the morning. For an authentic experience, visit 逍遥镇胡辣汤总店 (Xiaoyao Town Hu La Tang Main Store) in Zhoukou.
Pro tip:
Pair it with 水煎包 (fried dumplings) or 油条 (fried dough sticks) for a complete Henan breakfast.
3. 洛阳水席 (Luoyang Water Banquet)
A culinary masterpiece with over 1,000 years of history, 洛阳水席 (Luoyang Water Banquet) is not just a meal—it’s a performance. Named for its many soup-based dishes and the way courses flow like water, this elaborate banquet consists of 24 dishes, each with its own unique flavor and presentation.
Must-try dishes in the banquet:
- 牡丹燕菜 (Peony Yan Cai): The signature dish, made from shredded radish shaped like peony petals floating in a clear broth.
- 小碗汤 (Small Bowl Soup): A flavorful soup with meatballs and vegetables.
- 连汤肉片 (Meat Slices with Soup): Tender pork slices in a spicy broth with vegetables.
The story behind it:
Legend has it that the banquet was created during the Tang Dynasty when a giant radish was presented to Empress Wu Zetian. The imperial chefs transformed this humble vegetable into an elegant dish that resembled bird’s nest, hence the name “燕菜” (Yan Cai – Bird’s Nest Dish).
Where to experience it:
Visit 洛阳水席园 (Luoyang Water Banquet Garden) in Luoyang for an authentic experience complete with traditional music and performances.
Pro tip:
The banquet is meant to be shared, so bring a group of 6-8 people to fully appreciate all 24 dishes.
4. 道口烧鸡 (Daokou Braised Chicken)
A true Henan delicacy with over 300 years of history, 道口烧鸡 (Daokou Braised Chicken) is renowned throughout China for its tender meat and aromatic flavor. Originating from 滑县道口镇 (Huaxian Daokou Town), this dish was even served at the founding banquet of the People’s Republic of China in 1949.
What makes it special:
- The chicken: Selected from free-range hens under 3 years old for optimal tenderness.
- The marinade: A secret blend of over 10 名贵中药 (rare Chinese herbs) and spices.
- The cooking method: Slow-braised in a century-old broth that’s never completely replaced—only topped up, preserving the depth of flavor.
The result:
The chicken has a beautiful golden color, with meat so tender it falls off the bone, and a rich, aromatic flavor that lingers on the palate.
Where to buy it:
Look for the famous 张广美道口烧鸡 (Zhang Guangmei Daokou Braised Chicken) brand, which has been perfecting this recipe for generations.
Pro tip:
It makes an excellent souvenir— 真空包装 (vacuum-sealed) versions are available for travelers.
5. 开封灌汤包 (Kaifeng Soup Dumplings)
A culinary masterpiece from Kaifeng, the ancient capital of seven dynasties, 开封灌汤包 (Kaifeng Soup Dumplings) are a true work of art. These delicate dumplings are known for their paper-thin skin and savory broth inside.
What makes them special:
- The skin: So thin it’s almost transparent, yet strong enough to hold the flavorful broth.
- The filling: A mixture of pork and other ingredients, depending on the variety.
- The broth: Rich and savory, made by incorporating aspic into the filling which melts when steamed.
How to eat them:
- 轻轻提 (Gently lift) the dumpling with chopsticks.
- 慢慢移 (Slowly move) it to a spoon.
- 先开窗 (First make a window) by biting a small hole in the skin.
- 后喝汤 (Then drink the soup) before eating the dumpling.
Where to try them:
Visit 第一楼 (Di Yi Lou) in Kaifeng, a historic restaurant established in 1922 that specializes in these delicate dumplings.
Pro tip:
Be careful—the broth inside is extremely hot!
6. 鲤鱼焙面 (Carp with Crispy Noodles)
Known as the “number one dish of Henan,” 鲤鱼焙面 (Carp with Crispy Noodles) is a stunning dish that combines sweet and sour 黄河鲤鱼 (Yellow River carp) with delicate, crispy noodles. This dish perfectly exemplifies Henan cuisine’s philosophy of “五味调和” (harmonious blend of five tastes).
What makes it special:
- The fish: Fresh Yellow River carp, known for its tender, sweet flesh.
- The preparation: The fish is deep-fried and then covered in a sweet and sour sauce.
- The noodles: Delicate, thin noodles that are fried until crispy and then placed on top of the fish.
The experience:
When you pour the sauce over the fish and noodles, the crispy noodles absorb the flavors, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.
Where to try it:
Head to 阿五黄河大鲤鱼 (A Wu Yellow River Carp) in Zhengzhou, famous for their expert preparation of this classic dish.
Pro tip:
This dish is often served at special occasions and banquets, so it’s perfect for celebrating a special moment during your travels.
7. 安阳扁粉菜 (Anyang Flat Noodle Dish)
A beloved breakfast staple in Anyang, 安阳扁粉菜 (Anyang Flat Noodle Dish) is a hearty, flavorful soup that warms both body and soul. This simple yet satisfying dish is made with wide, flat noodles simmered in a rich bone broth.
What’s in it:
- Wide, flat sweet potato noodles
- Tender greens
- Cubes of tofu
- Rich, milky broth made from beef or pork bones
- Optional chili oil for extra heat
What makes it special:
The broth is simmered for hours to extract maximum flavor from the bones, resulting in a rich, comforting soup that’s perfect for cold mornings.
Where to try it:
Look for street vendors throughout Anyang, especially around the historic city center.
Pro tip:
Add a fried dough stick (油条) to make it even more filling, or ask for extra chili oil if you like it spicy.
8. 炒三不沾 (Stir-fried Three-Non-Stick)
A true test of a Henan chef’s skill, 炒三不沾 (Stir-fried Three-Non-Stick) is a unique dish that lives up to its name—it doesn’t stick to the pan, plate, or chopsticks! This impressive dessert is made from egg yolks, sugar, and starch, and requires constant stirring over high heat.
What makes it special:
- The texture: Silky smooth and creamy, with a delicate sweetness.
- The technique: Requires precise temperature control and constant stirring to prevent sticking.
- The presentation: Served on a plate with a small pool of water around it to demonstrate that it truly doesn’t stick.
Where to try it:
Visit traditional 豫菜 restaurants in Anyang or Zhengzhou to experience this impressive culinary feat.
Pro tip:
It’s best enjoyed immediately after cooking while it’s still warm and has that perfect silky texture.
Foodie Tips for Exploring Henan Cuisine
1. Best times to visit
- Spring (March-May): Perfect for trying seasonal dishes with fresh vegetables.
- Autumn (September-November): Ideal for enjoying hearty soups and stews as the weather cools down.
2. How to order like a local
- Download translation apps like Pleco or Google Translate to help with menu reading.
- Look for restaurants with lots of local customers—this is usually a sign of authentic, delicious food.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations—Henan people are proud of their cuisine and happy to share their favorites.
3. Street food safety
- Choose vendors with clean cooking areas and fresh ingredients.
- Look for food that’s cooked to order rather than pre-made.
- Bottled water is readily available and recommended for travelers.
4. Regional specialties by city
- Zhengzhou: 河南烩面 (Henan Lamb Soup Noodles), 鲤鱼焙面 (Carp with Crispy Noodles)
- Luoyang: 洛阳水席 (Luoyang Water Banquet), 牛肉汤 (Beef Soup)
- Kaifeng: 开封灌汤包 (Kaifeng Soup Dumplings), 汴京烤鸭 (Bianjing Roast Duck)
- Anyang: 扁粉菜 (Flat Noodle Dish), 炒三不沾 (Three-Non-Stick)
- Xinyang: 信阳炖菜 (Xinyang Braised Dishes), 南湾鱼 (Nanwan Lake Fish)
Conclusion
Henan’s traditional foods are more than just sustenance—they’re a window into China’s rich history and culture. From the humble bowl of 胡辣汤 that starts every Henan morning to the elaborate 洛阳水席 that has delighted emperors for centuries, each dish tells a story of this ancient land.
Whether you’re a foodie looking to expand your culinary horizons or a traveler wanting to experience authentic Chinese culture, Henan’s traditional cuisine offers something for everyone. So grab your chopsticks and get ready to embark on a delicious journey through the heart of China!
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