Shanghai Street Eats: Breakfast Foods Edition
In the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, where the pace of life is as rapid as the development of the city skyline, breakfast is not just a meal; it's a cherished tradition. The saying "Eat like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a pauper" holds particular significance in Shanghai, emphasising the importance of starting the day with a hearty breakfast. The Shanghainese have embraced this philosophy wholeheartedly, and at the core of their morning rituals are "the four warriors" (sìdà jīngāng, 四大金刚) – a quartet of breakfast delights that form the cornerstone of the city's morning culinary experience.
Eating like a local is the key to truly savoring the essence of a place, and in Shanghai, this means exploring the daily breakfast markets scattered throughout pockets of old Shanghai. While the city has modernised and stringent vendor regulations have affected the smaller family-run stalls, the culture of breakfast food still thrives, offering a glimpse into the rituals passed down from generation to generation.
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Sesame Pancake (dà bǐng, 大饼)
This palm-sized, sesame-studded pancake is a crispy and flaky delight. Often stuffed with savory ingredients like minced pork or pickled vegetables, it offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The occasional addition of spring onions elevates its taste, making it a popular and satisfying breakfast choice.
Fried Crullers (Yóu tiáo, 油条)
These iconic deep-fried dough strips are a breakfast staple in Shanghai. The golden-brown exterior boasts a satisfying crunch, while the interior remains soft and fluffy. Tear the crullers into bite-sized chunks and dip them into sweetened soy milk for a sweet and savory contrast.
Soy Milk (dou jiang, 豆板)
Served either sweet or savory, soy milk is a versatile beverage that complements various breakfast items. The sweet version, often paired with fried crullers, offers a comforting and indulgent start to the day. In contrast, the savory version, drizzled with soy sauce and topped with spring onions, provides a more robust and flavorful option.
Glutinous Rice Rolls (ci fan, 粢饭)
A Shanghainese favorite, glutinous rice rolls are dense and filling. These rolls are often stuffed with a variety of ingredients, ranging from the traditional fried cruller and pickled vegetables to the more adventurous pork floss or even sweet black sesame and sugar fillings. The amalgamation of flavors and textures in each bite makes this breakfast option truly unique.
Steamed Bun (Bao zi 包子)
Shanghai's steamed buns are a testament to the city's culinary craftsmanship. Filled with succulent pork, savory vegetables, or sweet red bean paste, these buns are freshly made and sized to fit the palm of your hand. The burst of flavor and juiciness upon biting into one is a quintessential Shanghai breakfast experience.
Wontons (馄炖)
Ideal for colder mornings, Shanghai's wontons are small parcels of delight. Filled with seasoned pork, they swim in a rich and piping-hot broth, providing warmth and comfort to start the day. The delicate balance of the thin wonton wrapper and the savory broth makes this breakfast option both comforting and flavorful.
Shaomai (烧卖)
Shanghai's shaomai takes a unique twist by being filled with sticky rice, mushroom, and pork. The open-faced dumpling is a flavorful and satisfying breakfast choice, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes. The sticky rice adds a comforting density, making it a favorite among locals.
Dou Fu Hua (豆腐花)
This silk-like tofu flower is a soft and savory custard made from curdled soy milk. Topped with dried shrimp, pickled radishes, spring onion, and a drizzle of soy sauce, it provides a subtle soybean flavor. For those who enjoy a kick of heat in the morning, a touch of chili oil completes this harmonious breakfast dish.
Scallion Pancakes (葱油饼)
Cong You Bing is a flaky scallion oil pancake that combines layers of flakiness with the savory aroma of green onions. Often enjoyed on its own or paired with pickled vegetables, it's a classic Shanghai breakfast street food that showcases simplicity and deliciousness.
Shanghai Pan-Fried Pork Buns (Shengjian Bao, 生煎包)
These pan-fried buns are a beloved Shanghai delicacy. The filling, dripping with juicy "soup," contrasts with the crunchy, pan-fried bottoms. Served with vinegar to cut the richness, these buns are an extraordinary breakfast, brunch, or snack option.
Pan-Fried Dumplings, Guotie (锅贴)
Crispy on one side and tender on the other, these pan-fried dumplings are a popular choice for breakfast or as a snack. The savory filling and golden-brown exterior create a delectable combination that is both satisfying and flavorful.
Jianbing (煎饼)
This iconic Shanghai breakfast item is a savory crepe expertly crafted by street vendors. With a thin layer of batter spread on a hot griddle, it includes a crackling fried cracker, green onions, cilantro, and a choice of sauces. Folded into a convenient pocket, Jianbing (煎饼) is the ultimate on-the-go breakfast delight, showcasing the skill and creativity of Shanghai's street food culture.