Anhui, located in eastern China, is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes and deep cultural heritage but also for its distinctive cuisine. Many of its traditional foods are hard to find outside the province. Let’s explore the Top 10 Unique Anhui Delicacies, each carrying local traditions and unforgettable flavors.
1. Gela Noodles
Gela Noodles, a specialty from Fuyang, derive their name from the local dialect, where “gela” means “to stir.” This dish requires mixing noodles with a variety of condiments before eating. The noodles are made with flour, eggs, salt, and soda, kneaded into a firm dough for maximum chewiness. Today, Gela Noodles are recognized as a “Famous Snack” by the Fuyang government and listed as an intangible cultural heritage.
2. Sanhe Rice Dumplings
Originating from Sanhe Ancient Town in Feixi County, these rice dumplings date back to the Taiping Rebellion. They are made from indica rice flour filled with pork belly and dried tofu, then deep-fried until golden. Crispy outside and soft inside, they are nutritious and flavorful, combining protein, carbohydrates, and plant-based nutrition.
3. Mao Tofu (Hairy Tofu)
Known as the “First Curiosity of Huizhou,” Mao Tofu is a fermented dish covered with white mold, unique to Huizhou. Made from soybeans, the tofu undergoes fermentation until fine white hair forms on its surface. It is then pan-fried or stewed. With a distinctive aroma and health benefits such as promoting cardiovascular health, Mao Tofu is a beloved street snack and festive dish in southern Anhui.
4. Stewed Horse-Hoof Softshell Turtle
A delicacy in southern Anhui, this turtle is named for its horse-hoof-shaped shell and delicate meat. Traditionally cooked with ham bones, mushrooms, ginger, and rice wine, the dish preserves its nutritional richness, especially collagen. It is considered a premium dish with restorative benefits, often featured in high-end restaurants.
5. Fang La Fish
This dish is tied to the historic Fang La uprising in Shexian. Made with mandarin fish steamed alongside ham, shrimp, mushrooms, and peas, it combines elegant presentation with tender flavor. Fang La Fish embodies both nutrition and Huizhou’s cultural depth.
6. Jixi Ta Guo (Stuffed Pastry)
A traditional snack from Jixi, Ta Guo is a half-moon-shaped pastry filled with local ingredients such as Chinese toon shoots, dried bamboo shoots, pickled vegetables, or shredded radish. Crisp outside and savory inside, it represents the frugal ingenuity of Jixi people.
7. Bao Gong Fish
Named after the legendary upright official Bao Zheng, this Hefei specialty uses carp and lotus root from Baohe River. Layers of lotus root, carp, ham, and mushrooms are slow-cooked together, creating a rich, red-colored stew. It reflects both Hefei’s culinary traditions and its cultural legacy.
8. Black Rice Dumplings (Wu Fan Tuan)
A specialty of Chizhou, these dumplings are made by steaming glutinous rice soaked in juice from blackened leaves of the Wu Fan tree. Rich in antioxidants and nutrients, the dumplings are jet-black, aromatic, and chewy, symbolizing a deep bond with nature.
9. Da Jiu Jia (Royal Rescue Pastry)
A traditional dessert from Shouxian, this pastry is said to have revitalized Emperor Zhao Kuangyin during a campaign. Made with flour, sugar, lard, walnuts, and osmanthus, it is crispy outside, soft inside, and carries a delightful aroma. It remains a festive gift and snack in Anhui today.
10. Fire-Smoked Fish (Huo Hong Yu)
From Jianghuai’s water towns, this preservation method involves marinating small fish like crucian carp, drying them, and then smoking them over rice husks and sawdust. The result is golden, smoky, and savory fish, reflecting the ingenuity of Anhui’s water culture.
