In this guide, we're going to take you into the world of Sichuan cuisine and explore five classic Sichuan dishes. Each dish carries the culinary wisdom and cultural heritage of the people of Sichuan, promising an ultimate feast for your taste buds. Are you ready to kick off this food journey? Let's savor the unique charm of Sichuan Cuisine together and feel the passion and flavors of Sichuan!

Recommended Guided Tours

Leshan Giant Buddha and Emei Mountain Trip

6 Days | Chengdu-Leshan-Emeishan

1. Mapo Tofu:

A classic Sichuan dish known for its spicy and fragrant flavor. Legend has it that this dish was created by a woman named Chen in Chengdu during the late Qing Dynasty, who had spots on her face, hence the name. The silky tofu is paired with a special bean paste and Sichuan pepper powder, melting in your mouth with a strong spicy kick.

2. Twice-Cooked Pork: 

A classic Sichuan dish with a unique cooking process. First, the pork is boiled until it's about 80% cooked, then stir-fried with green peppers and garlic sprouts, resulting in a firm texture that's rich but not greasy. This dish embodies the essence of Sichuan's "twice-cooked" style and is a must-order in Chengdu's home-style cuisine.

3. Kung Pao Chicken:

It's mainly made with diced chicken, paired with peanuts and dried chili peppers, with a balanced sweet and sour taste, salty and rich flavor. The chicken is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, the peanuts are crunchy, and the texture is rich and varied.

4. The Boiled Fish:

It is famous for its tender fish slices and spicy broth. The fish is enhanced by the aroma of Sichuan pepper and chili, making it fragrant and smooth with a strong spicy flavor.

5. Spicy Beef Combination Salad: 

It is made with beef tripe and beef, mixed with chili oil and Sichuan pepper oil. This dish is bright red, spicy but not overwhelming, fragrant but not greasy.

Tips:

Chengdu has many Sichuan restaurants, so it's recommended to book popular spots in advance.

Sichuan cuisine is primarily spicy, so visitors who aren't used to it can inform the restaurant to adjust the spice level.

Pairing with chilled drinks or beer is recommended to ease the spiciness.

The five major Sichuan dishes are not just a feast for the taste buds but also a reflection of Sichuan's culinary culture. From the spiciness of Mapo Tofu to the rich flavor of Twice-Cooked Pork, each dish carries deep History and Culture. Come to Chengdu and embark on a spicy journey for your taste buds!