In Yangzhou, humble snack stalls hidden in the winding alleys hold the power to delight taste buds of locals and visitors alike.
Guotie from a shop on Laohushan Road, Hanjiang district. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
A guotie (fried dumplings) shop on Laohushan Road in Hanjiang district has existed in Yangzhou for over 30 years. It sells freshly handmade dumplings, rejecting industrial pre-made alternatives. Roasted slowly over gentle heat, the dumplings retain a juicy filling while achieving a crispy exterior and tender interior, with each bite bursting with rich broth.
Huoshao are roasted in a shop on Pishi Street. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
Another is a nearly 30-year-old huoshao (twisted baked wheat bread rolls) shop on Pishi Street. The huoshao here smells particularly delicious, thanks to the addition of chopped scallions, pork lard seasoning, and meticulous cooking processes.
Grilled squid from a stall on Caiyi Street, Guangling district. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
The last must-try is a 1996-founded grilled squid stall on Caiyi Street in Guangling district. The soul of the dish lies in the house-made sauce that perfectly harmonizes sweet, salty, and spicy flavors, appealing to diners from north and south. Brushed generously with the sauce, the squid is crispy on the outside and tender and bouncy on the inside.