Wen Rice Noodle Roll
Originating from Guangzhou, the rice noodle roll has been transformed by the Chaozhou people, who are known for their ability to learn and innovate, resulting in widespread popularity. Although Chaozhou and Shantou are only about 40 kilometers apart, their rice noodle rolls are completely different. Chaozhou rice noodle rolls are easily recognizable; while other regions use gravy or soy sauce, Chaozhou uniquely uses sesame paste and peanut sauce as condiments.
Cai Bo Traditional Snack Glutinous Rice in Pig Intestine
Glutinous rice in pig intestine is a traditional local snack from Chaozhou. The middle section of the pig intestine, with a diameter of about 3-4 cm, is used. It should not be too thick or too thin and must be repeatedly scrubbed with salt and edible alkali until clean and odorless. The filling consists of glutinous rice soaked for 3 hours, combined with pork belly, rehydrated mushrooms, dried shrimp, lotus seeds, and more. This is also a favorite spot among locals, and the innkeeper specifically advised to look for Cai Bo for its good taste and hygiene. It tastes somewhat like zongzi.
Unnamed Guo Shop
Guo (a type of traditional snack) originated from sacrificial rituals. In Chaoshan, there are up to thirty sacrificial festivals each year, and each festival has a specific Guo corresponding to the deity being worshipped. Over time, these Guo evolved into everyday snacks. I remember reading that Chaoshan snacks are 'shared by humans and gods,' which I found to be a very apt summary. The shop recommended by the owner is located at the intersection of Shang Xiping Road and Xima Road, just a short walk from Cai Bo's house. The red peach Guo and chive Guo come highly recommended. If you have a big appetite, you can try them all.
Wu Jinping Snack Shop & Gongzai Alley Spring Pancakes
Chaozhou Spring Pancakes are a unique and delicious snack from Chaozhou, Guangdong, also known as Chaozhou Spring Rolls. They are rectangular, golden in appearance, with a crispy skin and savory filling. Highly recommended, a must-try!
Shibaqu Laoweiyu Dumpling Shop
Chaoshan fish dumplings are a traditional snack in the Chaoshan region of Guangdong. Chaozhou fish dumplings use seafood as the main ingredient for the dumpling skin, known for its delicate and tender texture. The filling is made from finely chopped red and white meat. It is said that there is an alley called Shibaqu Lane on Xima Road, which specializes in making fish dumplings famous for their fresh taste. Shibaqu fish dumplings have become a well-known brand in the city, with a history of about a hundred years.
Hu Rongquan Duck Mother Nian
Duck Mother Nian is one of the famous traditional snacks in the Chaoshan region of Guangdong. The name sounds quite strange, but it is actually an oval-shaped glutinous rice ball. There are two explanations for the origin of the name: one is that these glutinous rice balls were as large as duck eggs in the past, and duck eggs are called 'duck mother eggs' in the Chaozhou dialect, hence the name Duck Mother Nian; the other is that these glutinous rice balls float on the water when cooked, resembling white mother ducks floating on the water, hence the name Duck Mother Nian.
Bing Ma Si Lin Zong Qiu
Zongzi lovers should not miss this. It is a zongzi that combines both sweet and savory flavors. It is delicious, but not as amazing as expected, possibly because it was a bit cold. It is said to contain six types of fillings: mung bean paste, pork, egg yolk, chestnut, mushroom, and lotus seed.
Sheng Ji Sesame Almond Tea
The sesame paste is too thick and sweet, while the almond tea has a bitter taste. Surprisingly, they complement each other when combined.
