When Brazilian resident Manuela Alves wondered about the daily diet of Chinese people, she might not have anticipated the culinary journey her question would inspire. Answering her curiosity, Vietnamese student and vlogger, Tieu Thanh, embarked on a flavorful expedition to Jinan City, delving into the rich tapestry of Shandong cuisine—one of China’s eight great culinary traditions.
Studying in Beijing, Tieu has embraced the opportunity to explore China’s diverse culture firsthand. Her recent visit to Jinan, the birthplace of Shandong cuisine, offered a deep dive into a culinary heritage that dates back over two millennia to the Spring and Autumn Period (770-221 BC). “I wanted to experience and share the authentic tastes that have shaped Chinese dining for thousands of years,” Tieu remarked.
Shandong cuisine is renowned for its emphasis on freshness, with seafood playing a starring role due to the region’s coastal location. Signature dishes feature salty and savory flavors, with cooking techniques that preserve the natural taste and tenderness of the ingredients. Crispy textures and pure, uncomplicated tastes are hallmarks of this ancient cuisine.
During her exploration, Tieu sampled local specialties such as sweet and sour carp and Dezhou braised chicken, noting the meticulous preparation methods passed down through generations. “Each dish tells a story,” she observed. “It’s not just about food; it’s about history, culture, and the way people have connected with their environment over centuries.”
Tieu’s journey highlights how cuisine serves as a gateway to understanding a country’s heritage and lifestyle. For travelers and culture enthusiasts, Shandong cuisine offers a tangible link to China’s past, while also showcasing the innovation and diversity of its present-day food scene.
Through her vlogs, Tieu hopes to bridge cultural gaps and bring global audiences closer to the heart of Chinese society. “Food is a universal language,” she said. “By sharing these experiences, I aim to foster a deeper appreciation for the traditions that unite us, even across different countries and regions.”
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Taste 2,000-year-old Shandong cuisine with Vietnamese vlogger
cgtn.com
