Exploring the Delicacies of Beijing's Hutongs

Beijing's hutongs are not only famous for their historical charm but also for the diverse and delicious street food they offer. The term "苍蝇胡同" (cāng yíng hú tòng), literally meaning "fly alley," is a term used humorously to describe small, crowded lanes where street food vendors serve up delectable dishes. These narrow alleyways are packed with culinary gems waiting to be discovered. Let's explore the world of 苍蝇胡同美食 (cāng yíng hú tòng měi shí) or "fly alley delicacies."

Jianbing Guozi is a popular breakfast dish in Beijing. It consists of a crispy, thin crepe made from a batter of wheat and mung bean flour. The crepe is spread with hoisin sauce, chili paste, and soybean paste, then layered with an egg, green onions, cilantro, and a crispy fried wonton wrapper. It is folded and handed to you in a piece of wax paper. This savory and satisfying dish is a musttry for breakfast lovers.

Chuan'r is a staple street food in Beijing, commonly referred to as "Chinese barbecue." Skewers of meat, vegetables, and tofu are marinated in a variety of spices and grilled over charcoal. The most popular choices include lamb, beef, chicken, and vegetables such as mushrooms and peppers. Chuan'r is best enjoyed with a cold beer and is a favorite latenight snack among locals.

Douzhi is a traditional Beijing drink made from fermented mung beans. It has a tangy, slightly sour flavor and is often served with deepfried crullers called "youtiao" (油条). Douzhi is an acquired taste, but it is a unique and authentic experience for those looking to explore the local cuisine.

Laobing is a type of flatbread commonly found in Beijing's hutongs. It is made by kneading wheat flour dough, which is then rolled out and cooked on a hot griddle. Laobing can be enjoyed plain, but it is often filled with various ingredients such as crispy fried dough, sesame paste, or sliced pork. This simple yet delicious street food offers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.

Baodu is a specialty dish in Beijing made from stewed tripe and offal. The tripe is cooked until tender and is then marinated in a spicy sauce made with chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, and other aromatics. Baodu is known for its intense flavors and numbing spiciness. It is often garnished with cilantro, peanuts, and green onions. If you enjoy spicy food, this dish is a musttry.

Exploring the 苍蝇胡同美食 (cāng yíng hú tòng měi shí) or "fly alley delicacies" of Beijing's hutongs is a culinary adventure not to be missed. From savory crepes to spicy tripe stew, these hidden gems offer a unique blend of flavors and textures that capture the essence of traditional Beijing street food. Whether you're a local or a visitor, make sure to venture into the hutongs and discover the delights that await you.