Most Popular Chinese Street Food You Need To Try

If you are a food lover with a taste for adventure, get ready to embark on a tantalizing journey through the vibrant streets of China. The rich and diverse culinary landscape of this culturally diverse country is best explored through its enticing street food. From steaming dumplings and sizzling skewers to spicy noodles and crispy pancakes, China is a treasure trove of mouth-watering delights that will leave you craving for more. So brace yourself as we take you on a flavorful adventure, exploring the most popular Chinese street food you need to try. Get your taste buds ready for an explosion of flavors and textures that will transport you to the bustling streets of China.

Table of Contents

1. Jianbing Guozi (Chinese Crepes)

What is Jianbing Guozi?

Jianbing Guozi is a popular Chinese street food that can be best described as a savory pancake or crepe. It originated from the Shandong province of China and has now gained popularity across the country. Jianbing Guozi is known for its thin and crispy texture, and it is often filled with a variety of ingredients to add delicious flavors.

Ingredients used in Jianbing Guozi

The key ingredients used in making Jianbing Guozi include:

Batter: A mixture of wheat flour, mung bean flour, and water is used to create a thin and smooth batter for the crepe.
Egg: A beaten egg is spread over the crepe to give it a rich and creamy texture.
Scallions: Finely chopped scallions are sprinkled on top of the crepe to add a refreshing flavor.
Sauce: A variety of sauces are used to enhance the taste of Jianbing Guozi. Some popular choices include sweet bean sauce, hoisin sauce, and chili sauce.
Filling: Jianbing Guozi can be filled with a wide range of ingredients such as crispy wonton skins, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and even meat like shredded chicken or pork.

How is Jianbing Guozi made?

To make Jianbing Guozi, a thin layer of batter is spread over a hot griddle or flat pan. Then, an egg is cracked and spread on top of the batter. The crepe is flipped over to cook both sides until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, the crepe is brushed with your choice of sauce and filled with various ingredients. The edges are then folded inwards to create a neat roll. Jianbing Guozi is usually served hot and eaten as a handheld snack.

Variations of Jianbing Guozi

While the traditional Jianbing Guozi is a favorite among locals, there are also some interesting variations of this street food. Some variations include:

Cheese Jianbing: This version includes a generous amount of melted cheese as a filling, giving the Jianbing Guozi a delightful gooey texture.
Seafood Jianbing: Instead of the usual meat fillings, this variation includes seafood such as shrimp, squid, or fish as a flavorful alternative.
Vegetarian Jianbing: This variation focuses on using plant-based ingredients like mushrooms, tofu, and a medley of vegetables to cater to vegetarian preferences.

Jianbing Guozi is a versatile street food that can be customized according to personal taste, making it a must-try for food enthusiasts.

2. Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)

What are Xiaolongbao?

Xiaolongbao, also known as soup dumplings, is a famous Chinese street food that originated in Shanghai. These delicate dumplings are prized for their thin, translucent wrappers and flavorful fillings. Xiaolongbao is distinguishable by the rich broth that is trapped inside the dumplings, providing an explosion of flavors with each bite.

Ingredients used in Xiaolongbao

To make Xiaolongbao, you will need the following key ingredients:

Dumpling Wrappers: Xiaolongbao wrappers are typically made with a mixture of wheat flour, water, and sometimes a touch of oil to achieve a thin and elastic texture.
Pork Filling: The most traditional filling for Xiaolongbao is made with minced pork combined with seasonings like ginger, soy sauce, and fragrant Chinese wine.
Gelatinized Broth: The main highlight of Xiaolongbao is the gelatinized broth, which is typically made by simmering pork bones, chicken feet, and other aromatics for hours to extract the rich flavors.
Seasonings: Xiaolongbao is usually seasoned with vinegar, soy sauce, and fresh ginger for dipping.

How are Xiaolongbao made?

The process of making Xiaolongbao is intricate and requires skillful hands. Here is a simplified version of the traditional method:

Prepare the wrappers: Roll out small portions of dough into thin circles and ensure the edges are slightly thicker than the center to prevent the broth from leaking out.
Fill the dumplings: Place a small amount of pork filling in the center of each wrapper. Add a small gelatinized broth cube to ensure a burst of flavor when cooked.
Pleat the dumplings: Fold the wrapper in half and pinch it together at the top. Pleat the edges to seal the dumplings, creating the characteristic “soup spoon” shape.
Steam the dumplings: Arrange the Xiaolongbao in a steamer basket and steam them for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the broth inside to heat and become a savory soup.
Serve and enjoy: Xiaolongbao is traditionally served in bamboo steamers. Carefully transfer the dumplings to a plate and serve them hot with dipping sauces.

Tips for eating Xiaolongbao

Eating Xiaolongbao can be a delightful experience, but it requires some caution due to the hot soup inside the dumplings. Here are a few tips for enjoying Xiaolongbao:

Be careful with the broth: Xiaolongbao is notorious for its hot soup fillings, so take a small bite and let the soup cool slightly in the spoon before sipping it.
Use a spoon: To avoid any spills or burns, hold the Xiaolongbao with chopsticks and place it on a spoon. Take small bites, allowing the soup to flow into the spoon for easy sipping.
Add condiments to taste: Dip the dumplings into a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and ginger according to your preferred taste. Experiment with ratios to find your perfect balance of flavors.

3. Stinky Tofu

What is Stinky Tofu?

Stinky Tofu, known as “Chou doufu” in Mandarin, is a unique and aromatic street food that has captured the hearts of locals and adventurous foodies alike in China. Despite its pungent smell, this popular snack is a real treat for those willing to embrace its distinctive flavor profile.

Ingredients used in Stinky Tofu

The main ingredients used in making Stinky Tofu include:

Tofu: Stinky Tofu is made using regular tofu, which is fermented using a specific type of mold and brine solution. This fermentation process is what gives the tofu its characteristic odor.
Brine solution: The brine solution used in fermenting Stinky Tofu typically consists of a combination of water, salt, vinegar, Chinese herbs, and spices. This brine helps develop the unique flavor and aroma of the tofu.

How is Stinky Tofu made?

The process of making Stinky Tofu involves several steps:

Fermentation: Blocks of tofu are soaked in the brine solution and left to ferment for a period of time ranging from a few days to several weeks. The fermentation process allows the tofu to develop its distinctive smell and flavor.
Cooking: Once the tofu is fermented, it can be prepared and cooked in various ways. It can be deep-fried until golden and crispy on the outside while remaining soft and creamy on the inside. Stinky Tofu can also be braised or grilled, depending on regional preferences.
Serving: Stinky Tofu is typically served as bite-sized pieces or cubes. It is commonly accompanied by a dipping sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, chili oil, or pickled vegetables to balance out the strong flavors.

Where to find Stinky Tofu?

Stinky Tofu is widely available at street food stalls and night markets throughout China. Its pungent aroma often acts as a magnet, drawing curious food lovers to its source. Popular destinations for sampling Stinky Tofu include the night markets in Beijing, Taipei, Hong Kong, and Shanghai.

4. Shengjian Bao (Pan-Fried Pork Buns)

What are Shengjian Bao?

Shengjian Bao, also known as pan-fried pork buns, are a popular street food originating from Shanghai, China. These flavorful buns are similar to Xiaolongbao but with a different cooking technique. The buns are pan-fried, resulting in a crispy bottom and a soft, fluffy top.

Ingredients used in Shengjian Bao

To make Shengjian Bao, you will need the following key ingredients:

Dough: The dough for Shengjian Bao is made from a mixture of all-purpose flour, yeast, water, and sometimes a pinch of sugar or oil to enhance the texture.
Pork Filling: The traditional filling for Shengjian Bao consists of ground pork mixed with seasonings such as ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and scallions. This flavorful mixture gives the buns their delicious taste.
Gelatinized Broth: Similar to Xiaolongbao, Shengjian Bao can also contain gelatinized broth cubes, which add a burst of savory flavors.

How are Shengjian Bao made?

The process of making Shengjian Bao involves a few key steps:

Prepare the dough: Mix the ingredients for the dough, knead until smooth, and allow it to rise until doubled in size.
Shape the buns: Roll out small portions of the dough and flatten them into circles. Place a spoonful of pork filling in the center of each round, along with a gelatinized broth cube if desired. Pleat the edges of the dough to form a tightly sealed bun.
Pan-fry the buns: Heat a pan with oil and arrange the Shengjian Bao, pleated side up, in rows. Once the bottom of the buns turns golden brown, add water to the pan and cover with a lid. Steam and cook the buns until the water has evaporated.
Serve and enjoy: Shengjian Bao is traditionally served hot with a sprinkling of sesame seeds and chopped scallions on top. It pairs well with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil.

Popular variations of Shengjian Bao

While the classic Shengjian Bao is a crowd favorite, there are also some interesting variations to explore:

Seafood Shengjian Bao: This variation replaces the pork filling with a combination of seafood like shrimp, fish, or crab, creating a delightful seafood twist to the dish.
Vegetarian Shengjian Bao: For those who prefer a meat-free option, vegetarian Shengjian Bao can be made using a filling of mushrooms, tofu, and various vegetables, seasoned to perfection.

Shengjian Bao offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that make it a beloved street food in Shanghai and beyond.

5. Tanghulu (Candied Fruits on a Stick)

What is Tanghulu?

Tanghulu is a traditional Chinese street snack that consists of skewered fruits coated in a hard candy shell. It is both visually appealing and delicious, making it a popular treat for people of all ages.

Ingredients used in Tanghulu

The key ingredients used in making Tanghulu include:

Fruits: Tanghulu can be made using various fruits, but some of the most commonly used options include strawberries, grapes, pineapple, and hawthorn berries.
Sugar Syrup: To coat the fruits, a hot sugar syrup is prepared by combining sugar and water. This syrup hardens quickly, creating a shiny and crunchy outer shell.

How is Tanghulu made?

The process of making Tanghulu involves the following steps:

Skewer the fruits: Use bamboo skewers to thread the fruits, leaving space between each piece to ensure even coating.
Prepare the sugar syrup: In a pot, heat sugar and water until it reaches a boiling point. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves completely and the syrup thickens slightly.
Coat the fruits: Carefully dip each skewered fruit into the hot sugar syrup, making sure to cover it completely. Allow the excess syrup to drip off before placing the coated fruit on a greased surface to cool and harden.
Repeat and serve: Repeat the coating process for remaining fruits. Once the sugar shell has hardened, Tanghulu is ready to be enjoyed.

Popular fruits for Tanghulu

While Tanghulu can be made with various fruits, some fruits are particularly favored for their suitability and flavor when combined with the sweet candy coating:

Strawberries: The vibrant red color and juicy texture of strawberries make them a popular choice for Tanghulu. The sweet and slightly tangy taste of strawberries complements the sugary shell perfectly.
Grapes: The firm and juicy grapes are great for Tanghulu, giving a juicy burst of flavor with each bite. Both green and red grapes work well for this treat.
Pineapple: The tropical sweetness and slight tartness of pineapple create an interesting contrast against the candy shell, making it a refreshing choice.
Hawthorn berries: These small red berries have a slightly tart taste and are commonly used in traditional Chinese sweets. The natural acidity of hawthorn berries adds complexity to the overall flavor of Tanghulu.

Tanghulu is not only enjoyable to eat but also visually captivating, making it a perfect street food snack and a popular choice during celebrations and festivals.

6. Hot Pot

What is Hot Pot?

Hot Pot, also known as Huoguo in Mandarin, is a communal dining experience that has been a part of Chinese culinary culture for centuries. It involves simmering a variety of ingredients in a bubbling pot of flavorful broth placed at the center of the dining table.

Ingredients used in Hot Pot

Hot Pot offers a wide range of ingredients to suit different tastes and preferences. Some common ingredients used in Hot Pot include:

Broth: A variety of broths can be used in Hot Pot, such as spicy Sichuan-style, mild chicken broth, or savory mushroom broth. These broths form the base of the cooking process and impart rich flavors to the ingredients.
Meat: Thinly sliced meat is a common ingredient in Hot Pot. Choices usually include beef, lamb, and pork. The meat can be marinated beforehand to enhance its taste.
Seafood: Hot Pot provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood. Favorites include fish slices, shrimp, scallops, and squid.
Tofu and Vegetables: Tofu in various forms, such as silken tofu or bean curd sheets, is a popular ingredient in Hot Pot. A wide selection of vegetables like napa cabbage, mushrooms, bok choy, and bean sprouts are also commonly added.
Noodles and Dumplings: To round out the meal, noodles and dumplings are often cooked in the simmering broth towards the end. These carb options add heartiness to the Hot Pot experience.

How is Hot Pot enjoyed?

Hot Pot is not only a meal but also a social event that brings people together. Here’s how you can enjoy Hot Pot:

Prepare the broths: Choose your preferred broths and simmer them in hot pot cooker or divide them into separate pots for different flavors.
Select ingredients: Place a variety of ingredients on the table and allow everyone to pick their favorites. This interactive process makes Hot Pot a customizable dining experience.
Cook and share: Dip the ingredients into the simmering broth until they are cooked to perfection. Each person can take turns adding ingredients to the pot, fostering a communal spirit.
Go for dipping sauces: While the ingredients cook, prepare dipping sauces using condiments like soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, cilantro, and chili oil. These sauces add extra flavors and enhance the taste of the cooked ingredients.
Enjoy the feast: Once the ingredients are cooked to your liking, retrieve them from the pot and enjoy the feast together. The combination of flavors from the simmering broth and the fresh ingredients creates a truly satisfying meal.

Hot Pot is a popular choice for family gatherings, celebrations, and cold winter nights. Its interactive nature and wide range of ingredients make it a beloved Chinese street food.

7. Guotie (Potstickers)

What are Guotie?

Guotie, also known as Potstickers, are crispy pan-fried dumplings that originated from northern China. These dumplings are loved for their lightly charred bottoms and juicy fillings, making them a delightful street food snack.

Ingredients used in Guotie

To make Guotie, you will need the following key ingredients:

Dumpling Wrappers: Guotie wrappers are typically made by combining all-purpose flour, water, and sometimes a dash of salt. The wrappers should be thin and elastic to achieve the desired texture.
Filling: The filling for Guotie can be made using various ingredients, but a common choice is a mixture of ground pork, cabbage, scallions, ginger, garlic, and seasonings such as soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper.
Oil: Guotie is pan-fried, so a neutral cooking oil like vegetable or peanut oil is used to achieve the crispy texture.

How are Guotie made?

The process of making Guotie involves a few steps:

Prepare the filling: Combine all the ingredients for the filling in a bowl and mix well until fully combined. The filling should be flavorful and well-seasoned.
Assemble the dumplings: Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each wrapper. Wet the edges of the wrappers with water, then fold and pinch the edges to seal the dumplings. Pleat the top side if desired for an attractive appearance.
Pan-fry the dumplings: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Arrange the Guotie in a single layer in the pan. Once the bottom is golden brown, carefully add water to the pan, cover with a lid, and cook until the water has evaporated. This creates steam that cooks the top of the dumplings.
Serve and enjoy: Once the Guotie are golden brown and crispy on the bottom, they are ready to be served. Guotie is traditionally served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil.

Dipping sauces for Guotie

Guotie can be enjoyed on their own, but dipping sauces elevate the flavors further. Here are some popular dipping sauce options:

Soy Sauce and Vinegar: A classic combination of soy sauce and vinegar is a simple and delicious choice that complements the Guotie’s savory flavor.
Chili Oil: For those who enjoy a kick of heat, a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and chili oil adds a spicy and aromatic touch to the Guotie.
Black Vinegar and Ginger: The sharpness of black vinegar combined with fresh ginger creates a tangy and refreshing dip, balancing the richness of the Guotie.

Guotie’s combination of textures and flavors, from the crispy bottoms to the juicy fillings, makes it a beloved street food snack that is perfect for sharing.

8. Roujiamo (Chinese Hamburger)

What is Roujiamo?

Roujiamo, often referred to as Chinese Hamburger, is a popular street food originating from the Shaanxi province of China. It consists of tender and flavorful braised meat stuffed inside a fluffy flatbread known as “mo.” Roujiamo offers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors that will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients used in Roujiamo

To make Roujiamo, you will need the following key ingredients:

Mo (Flatbread): Mo is a type of flatbread made with flour, water, and salt. It is typically soft, fluffy, and slightly chewy in texture.
Braised Meat Filling: The traditional filling for Roujiamo consists of braised meat, most commonly pork or beef. The meat is slow-cooked in a fragrant combination of herbs and spices, such as star anise, ginger, and garlic, to impart rich flavors.

How is Roujiamo made?

The process of making Roujiamo involves a few steps:

Prepare the filling: Start by braising the meat of your choice in a flavorful broth until tender and fully cooked. The meat is then shredded or chopped into smaller pieces.
Make the mo: Prepare the mo dough by mixing flour, water, and salt. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Let it rest for some time to allow gluten to develop.
Shape and cook the mo: Divide the mo dough into small portions and roll each portion into a flat, round shape. Cook the mo on a griddle or flat pan until it becomes golden brown and puffs up like a pita bread.
Assemble the Roujiamo: Slice the cooked mo in half, creating a pocket. Fill the pocket with the braised meat, along with any desired sauces, such as hoisin sauce or chili oil, and fresh vegetables like lettuce or cilantro.
Serve and enjoy: Roujiamo is typically served hot, wrapped in a piece of parchment paper to hold everything together. It can be enjoyed as a handheld snack or paired with side dishes like pickled vegetables.

Variations of Roujiamo

While the classic Roujiamo features braised meat as the filling, there are also some regional and modern variations to explore:

Cumin-spiced Roujiamo: This variation adds a generous sprinkle of ground cumin and other spices to the meat filling, giving it a fragrant and slightly spicy twist.
Fusion-style Roujiamo: Some chefs and food enthusiasts have introduced fusion elements to Roujiamo by incorporating ingredients like cheese, jalapenos, or other modern flavors to create unique taste experiences.

Roujiamo’s combination of soft and chewy bread with tender meat creates a satisfying and comforting street food experience.

9. Jianbing Xiaochi (Chinese Pancake Rolls)

What are Jianbing Xiaochi?

Jianbing Xiaochi, sometimes referred to as Chinese Pancake Rolls, are a popular street food snack in China that originated from the northern regions. These savory pancake rolls are filled with a variety of ingredients, offering a convenient and delicious on-the-go meal.

Ingredients used in Jianbing Xiaochi

The key ingredients used in making Jianbing Xiaochi include:

Pancake Batter: Jianbing Xiaochi pancakes are made with a mixture of wheat flour, mung bean flour, and water. This batter creates a thin and crispy pancake that wraps around the fillings.
Egg: A beaten egg is spread onto the pancake to provide a rich and creamy texture.
Sauce: Jianbing Xiaochi is typically seasoned with different types of sauces to enhance the overall flavor. Common choices include sweet bean sauce, hoisin sauce, and chili sauce.
Fillings: Jianbing Xiaochi can be filled with a variety of ingredients, depending on personal preferences and regional variations. Common fillings include crispy wonton skins, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and even meat like shredded chicken or pork.

How are Jianbing Xiaochi made?

The process of making Jianbing Xiaochi involves the following steps:

Prepare the pancake batter: Mix wheat flour, mung bean flour, and water to create a thin and smooth batter. Allow the batter to rest for a short period to let the flavors meld together.
Cook the pancakes: Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Pour a ladleful of the pancake batter onto the pan and quickly spread it into a thin and even circle. Crack an egg onto the pancake and use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Add the fillings and sauce: As the pancake cooks, sprinkle any desired fillings such as crispy wonton skins or pickled vegetables onto the surface. Drizzle the sauce(s) of your choice evenly over the fillings.
Fold and serve: Once the pancake is cooked through and crispy around the edges, fold it over itself, enclosing the fillings. Transfer the Jianbing Xiaochi to a plate and serve it hot.

Popular fillings for Jianbing Xiaochi

Jianbing Xiaochi offers endless possibilities for fillings to create a personalized and delicious snack experience. Here are some popular fillings to consider:

Crispy Wonton Skins: These thin and crispy wonton skins provide a delightful crunch and texture to the Jianbing Xiaochi.
Pickled Vegetables: Tangy and refreshing pickled vegetables, such as radish or cabbage, add a burst of flavor and balance.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves add an aromatic touch and brighten the overall taste of the Jianbing Xiaochi.
Shredded Chicken or Pork: For meat lovers, shredded chicken or pork offers a savory and delicious option to include in the filling.

The versatility of Jianbing Xiaochi makes it a perfect grab-and-go street food that can be enjoyed throughout the day.

10. Youtiao (Chinese Crullers)

What are Youtiao?

Youtiao, also known as Chinese Crullers or Chinese fried dough, is a popular Chinese breakfast street food. These fried dough sticks are crispy on the outside, light and fluffy on the inside, making them a delightful treat to start the day.

Ingredients used in Youtiao

To make Youtiao, you will need the following key ingredients:

Flour: Youtiao is made using a mixture of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sometimes yeast to create the dough. The dough should be smooth and elastic for the best results.
Water: Water is added to the flour mixture to form a workable dough.
Salt: A pinch of salt is commonly added to enhance the flavor of the Youtiao.
Oil: Youtiao is deep-fried, so a neutral cooking oil like vegetable or peanut oil is used for frying.

How are Youtiao made?

The process of making Youtiao involves a few main steps:

Prepare the dough: Mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and water together until a smooth dough forms. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and let it rest for a short period to allow gluten to develop.
Shape the dough: Flatten the dough into a rectangular shape, then fold it several times to create layers. Roll out the folded dough into a longer rectangular strip, about 1 inch thick.
Cut and stretch: Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into long strips, usually around 8-10 inches in length. Lightly stretch each strip to lengthen them, creating the characteristic shape of Youtiao.
Deep-fry the dough: Heat a pot or deep-fryer with oil until it reaches a suitable frying temperature. Gently drop the Youtiao strips into the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown and puffed up. Flip them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Drain and serve: Once cooked, remove the Youtiao from the oil and place them on a paper towel or wire rack to drain off excess oil. Youtiao is traditionally served hot and enjoyed with dipping sauces, soy milk, or porridge.

Ways to eat Youtiao

Youtiao can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, depending on personal preference and regional customs. Here are some popular ways to eat Youtiao:

Dipped in Soy Milk: Youtiao is commonly dunked into a warm bowl of soy milk, allowing it to soak up the flavors and soften slightly. The combination of crispy Youtiao and creamy soy milk creates a comforting breakfast.
Sandwiched in Congee: Youtiao can be sliced and added to a bowl of hot congee or rice porridge, adding a delightful crunch and contrasting texture to the dish.
Eaten on Its Own: Youtiao can be enjoyed as a standalone snack, allowing you to savor its crispy exterior and fluffy interior. It can be eaten plain or paired with a variety of condiments and dipping sauces.

Youtiao’s versatility and deliciousness make it a beloved Chinese breakfast street food that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

As you explore the vibrant world of Chinese street food, make sure to savor each unique flavor and experience the joy of these culinary delights. Whether you choose to indulge in the savory and crispy goodness of Jianbing Guozi, the rich and soupy goodness of Xiaolongbao, or the aromatic and adventurous Stinky Tofu, each street food provides an opportunity to taste the diverse flavors of Chinese cuisine. So, grab your chopsticks, embark on a delicious journey, and get ready to experience the bustling flavors of China’s street food culture!