Zhangjiajie's food culture is rich and colorful, integrating the traditional flavor of the Tujia people and the unique local geographical environment. The following are the main delicacies of Zhangjiajie and their cultural background:
Three pots: This is Zhangjiajie's signature dish, which is stewed in a pot with bacon, tofu, radish and other ingredients. It tastes refreshing, heavy, moderately salty and spicy, and is a great dish for rice. This dish has the traditional characteristics of the Tujia people and a rich taste. It is a must-have for entertaining guests.
Drum skin: This is a traditional specialty of Zhangjiajie. It is made from the scraps on the spine of the cow. After careful cooking, it has a strong pepper flavor, the beef is crispy and chewy, spicy and delicious, and the sauce at the bottom of the pot is even more delicious.
Rock ear stewed with native chicken: Rock ear is a lichen plant growing on sandstone cliffs. It has high nutritional value. It is stewed with native chicken and has a mellow fragrance. It is a nourishing delicacy.
Tujia Braised Pork: This is the main dish for Tujia people to entertain guests. It is made of pork belly through boiling, frying, steaming and other processes. It is fat but not greasy and tastes fresh.
Baby Fish: Although the baby fish is a national second-level protected animal, the baby fish artificially cultivated in a simulated wild environment is edible. The meat of the baby fish is tender and fresh, rich in nutrition, and is the best tonic for the elderly.
Tujia Ten Bowls: This is a common way used in local folk festivals and banquets. It is characterized by half meat and half vegetarian, one dish with two flavors, reflecting the banquet culture of the Tujia people.
Kuzu Root Powder: This is a special snack in Zhangjiajie, which has the effect of clearing heat and relieving summer heat, promoting body fluid and quenching thirst. Kuzu Root Powder can be made into soup or dessert, with a delicate taste, and is a cool and refreshing product in summer.
Tujia bacon: Tujia bacon is a representative delicacy of Zhangjiajie. It is made of high-quality pork that is marinated and smoked. The meat is firm and fragrant. It can be sliced and eaten directly or cooked with other ingredients.
These delicacies not only show the rich food culture of Zhangjiajie, but also reflect the life wisdom of the locals and their respect for ingredients. While tasting these delicacies, tourists can also feel the enthusiasm and simplicity of the Tujia people.