As one of China's eight great culinary traditions, Cantonese cuisine has long captivated food lovers worldwide. The recent ‘Top Ten Signature Dishes’ and ‘Top Ten Viral Snacks’ awards in Yingde, Qingyuan have unveiled exciting new additions to this beloved cuisine.

The two-month campaign gathered 71 dishes and 42 snacks for consideration. After professional judges made their initial selections, chefs from 20 shortlisted restaurants faced off in a live cooking showdown. Using local ingredients and showcasing unique techniques, they crafted visually stunning, aromatic dishes that balanced traditional flavors with modern health-conscious approaches—demonstrating both the richness and innovation of Yingde's food culture.

The winning dish was Chrysanthemum Leicha River Fish Soup, a harmonious blend of Hakka Leicha tea infusion, fresh river fish, and delicate chrysanthemum notes. Other standout entries like Juicy Roast Pigeon and Pomegranate-Braised Bamboo Shoots also earned spots on the ‘Top Ten Signature Dishes’ list. For snacks, local black tea took center stage in glutinous rice balls, walnut cookies, and tea cakes—all celebrating Yingde's distinctive culinary identity. Ready to treat your taste buds?