The Red Jade Not just any radish makes the cut. The authentic Changzhou dried radish is made exclusively from the local “Red Jade” variety. These radishes are small, with vibrant red skin and solid, crisp white flesh. They possess a natural sweetness that balances the heavy salting process, ensuring the final product is never harsh….
Layers of flavor Walking through the streets of Changzhou at dawn, you will often smell the nutty, intoxicating aroma of toasted sesame seeds before you even see the bakery. This is the scent of the Da Ma Gao, a pastry that represents the pinnacle of local breakfast culture. A master baker does not simply make dough;…
Water is the soul Tianmu Lake, often referred to as the “eyes of the mountain,” is surrounded by vast bamboo forests that naturally filter the rainfall. It is this sweet, pristine water that forms the backbone of the dish. But the true star is the organic bighead carp. Unlike muddy river fish, the carp here grow in deep, sandy-bottomed waters,…
A bowl of precision In Changzhou, the day does not begin until the first slurp of Yin Si Mian (Silver Thread Noodles). Unlike the heavy, spicy noodles of the north, this local specialty is defined by its elegance.The dough is rolled and cut with such precision that each strand is said to be as fine as a…