Four Autumn Dishes Beijingers Absolutely Adore

Irene Li, Associate Editor | Oct 17, 2023 5:30 pm | Add a comment | 250 reads

As autumn paints Beijing in its warm hues, food takes center stage in the lives of city residents. Autumn in Beijing isn't just about the changing leaves, it's a flavor fest. Here are some dishes that Beijingers swear by when the leaves start to fall.

Sauced Pork Knuckles 酱肘子

For Beijingers, autumn is incomplete without a hearty serving of 酱肘子 jiàng zhǒuzi, which translates to "sauced pork knuckles." Picture this: slow-cooked pork knucles bathed in a rich, aromatic sauce that's oh so flavorful. A must-visit place for this delicacy is 稻香村 Dàoxiāngcūn. The knuckles are indulgent – but not greasy – and the skin has an enticing texture. Pair it with a couple of stir-fried dishes, a shot of erguotou or a glass Yanjing beer, and you have a quintessential Beijinger feast.

Baodu'er 爆肚儿

When it comes to autumn food wisdom, old Beijingers say, "To eat autumn, you have to eat baodu'er." For those not in the know, 爆肚儿 bàodùer, or Beijing Quick-Fry Tripe, features beef tripe quickly fried and served with a medley of condiments and sauces. As the weather changes, Beijingers believe that the tripe, coming from ruminant animals with a unique digestive system, can help maintain a healthy stomach.

Braised Meat 炖肉

Next on the autumn menu is the ever-present braised meat, or 炖肉 dùnròu. Even though Beijingers aren't particularly choosy about which meat is braised, a standout has to be 红烧肉 hóngshāoròu (red braised pork). Come autumn, kitchens across the capital are filled with the smell of cooking hongshaorou, something that's truly unforgettable.

Char-Grilled Meat Skewers 炙子烤肉

Finally, we have the classic Beijing-style dish, char-grilled meat skewers 炙子烤肉 zhìzi kǎoròu. Marinated slices of beef and mutton are grilled to perfection on a round iron plate. This dish takes street food to a whole new level. In true Beijinger style, enjoy the skewers while standing. One foot on a bench, grilled skewers in one hand, wiping sweat with a towel on your shoulder – that's autumn in Beijing for you!