Summer Nourishment Exploring Yangzhou's Summer Delicacies

Yangzhou, a city known for its rich history and cultural heritage, is also famous for its delightful summer cuisine. As the heat of the season intensifies, locals and visitors alike turn to nourishing and refreshing dishes that not only satisfy the taste buds but also provide the necessary energy to beat the summer heat. This article takes you on a culinary journey through some of Yangzhou's best summer nourishing delicacies.

1. Douban Jiang (Fermented Black Bean Paste)

Douban Jiang, a staple in Yangzhou cuisine, is a must-try during the summer. Made from fermented black soybeans, it has a unique, savory, and slightly tangy flavor that complements a variety of dishes. During the summer, you can find Douban Jiang used in a variety of ways, such as in Yangzhou Fried Rice, as a dipping sauce for vegetables, or as a base for soups and stews.

2. Yangzhou Salted Duck Eggs

Yangzhou's summer heat is no match for the cooling and nourishing properties of salted duck eggs. These eggs, which have been preserved in a mixture of salt, rice hulls, and clay, are rich in nutrients and are believed to help regulate the body's internal temperature. They can be enjoyed on their own or used in a variety of dishes, such as Salted Duck Egg Salad, Salted Duck Egg Fried Rice, and Salted Duck Egg Soup.

3. Yangzhou Green Onion Pancake (Cong you bing)

Cong you bing, or green onion pancake, is a popular street food in Yangzhou. Made with layers of thin, golden-brown dough and filled with scallions and a bit of salt, this dish is both crispy and flavorful. It is a perfect breakfast or snack to start your day or to enjoy on a hot summer day.

4. Yangzhou Fried Rice (Yangzhou fan)

Yangzhou Fried Rice is another summer staple that is both delicious and easy to make. This dish features a mix of rice, eggs, vegetables, and a variety of meats, all stir-fried together. The key to a perfect Yangzhou Fried Rice is the use of Douban Jiang to add depth of flavor. Enjoy it as a meal or as a side dish.

5. Yangzhou Steamed Fish (Yangzhou shengcai)

Yangzhou Steamed Fish, or Yangzhou Shengcai, is a classic summer dish that is both light and flavorful. The fish is steamed with ginger, scallions, and other seasonings, then topped with a light soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame oil. This dish is not only refreshing but also full of nutrients, making it an ideal summer meal.

6. Yangzhou Lotus Root Soup (Hei shu tang)

Hei Shu Tang, or Lotus Root Soup, is a nourishing and cooling summer soup that is perfect for those hot summer days. The soup features tender pieces of lotus root, pork, and a variety of other ingredients, all simmered together in a light, savory broth. This dish is believed to help cool the body and improve digestion.

In conclusion, Yangzhou's summer cuisine offers a wide array of nourishing and refreshing dishes that are perfect for those hot summer days. From the rich and savory Douban Jiang to the cooling and nutritious Hei Shu Tang, these dishes are sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you cool during the summer heat. So, the next time you visit this beautiful city, be sure to try some of these delightful summer delicacies!