As a Chinese person who is absolutely obsessed with food, I can tell you—Chinese street food is definitely an adventure for your taste buds! Wherever you are in China, there’s no shortage of delicious treats to try. Street food is a huge part of Chinese culture, and it’s also a fun way to practice your Chinese while enjoying some mouthwatering snacks.
Let’s go on a little tour of some of the most popular Chinese street foods and learn some Chinese phrases along the way.
1. Jiānbǐng (煎饼) – My Number #1
煎饼 (jiānbǐng) literally means “fried pancake,” but trust me, it’s much more than that! It’s a savory, crispy crepe-like dish that’s usually filled with eggs, scallions, crispy wonton skin, and sometimes a little sausage or other fillings. It’s cooked right in front of you on a hot griddle, and every time I watch it being made, I am amazed by how all the ingredients come together. The hot griddle creates a perfect crispy edge, while the egg adds a rich, savory flavor. Every bite is a delightful blend of textures and flavors—from the crispiness of the outer layer to the soft, savory fillings inside.
Useful phrases for ordering:
- 我要一个煎饼 (wǒ yào yī gè jiānbǐng) – I want one jianbing.
- 加辣 (jiā là) – Add chili/spicy.
- 不加葱 (bù jiā cōng) – No scallions, please.
You can usually find 煎饼 (jiānbǐng) at any food courts or night markets. It’s the perfect go-to snack after the gym or after a long day. Definitely my #1!
2. Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐) – A Classic Love-It-or-Hate-It Experience
Okay, I’ll be honest here: stinky tofu (臭豆腐, chòu dòufu) is an acquired taste. It’s not really my thing, but over the years, I’ve come to appreciate this classic snack more. Its name comes from its unmistakable smell—some say it smells like rotten cheese or dirty socks! The strong odor comes from the fermentation process, where tofu is soaked in a brine made from fermented vegetables, which gives it that pungent, stinky aroma. But the taste? Well, it’s crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, and quite delicious when served with a spicy dipping sauce. Yes, so definitely get the spicy sauce.
Useful phrases for ordering:
- 我要一份臭豆腐 (wǒ yào yī fèn chòu dòufu) – I want an order of stinky tofu.
- 加辣酱 (jiā là jiàng) – Add spicy sauce.
I think everyone should try stinky tofu once. It’s a bold and uniquely Chinese experience! You will find it at most food courts and night markets.
3. Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶) – The Trendy Drink from Taiwan That I Grew Up With
Bubble tea (珍珠奶茶, zhēnzhū nǎichá) first became popular in my childhood, and has now taken the world by storm. You can get bubble tea with black tea, green tea, oolong, or even fruit-flavored bases, and it’s often mixed with milk, sugar, and of course, those tapioca pearls. In China, we are obsessed with tea, so during those sleepy afternoons in the office, you might find people ordering bubble tea instead of coffee.
Useful phrases for ordering:
- 我要一杯珍珠奶茶 (wǒ yào yī bēi zhēnzhū nǎichá) – I want a cup of bubble tea.
- 少糖 (shǎo táng) – Less sugar, please.
- 去冰 (qù bīng) – No ice.
Bubble tea isn’t just a drink; it’s a little moment of happiness in a cup. Whether it’s to refresh yourself during a hot summer day or to just indulge in a sweet treat, it’s a perfect companion for any time of the day. It’s also everywhere in China.
Wrapping Up Our Street Food Adventure
So, which snack would you like to try first? If you live in China, these street foods are widely available, but don’t worry if you’re not there yet—many of these delicious treats have made their way to international cities around the world. Whether you’re grabbing bubble tea at a local café or seeking out a food market with jiānbǐng, you can experience a taste of China no matter where you are.
As you explore these tasty snacks, why not practice some Chinese phrases along the way? Ordering in Chinese, reading menus, or chatting with friends about food is a fun and interactive way to improve your language skills. Keep practicing, keep exploring, and happy eating!
