What kind of food do people in Xiamen eat?

Xiamen, a coastal city in southeastern China, boasts a diverse culinary scene, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood and local specialties. Here are some prominent foods you'll find in Xiamen:

Seafood:

* Oysters: Xiamen is known as the "Oyster Capital of China", with various ways to enjoy them, including steamed, grilled, fried, and in soups.

* Tuna: Fresh tuna is readily available and used in sashimi, sushi, and various stir-fries.

* Shrimp: From delicate white shrimp to plump tiger prawns, shrimp dishes are a staple.

* Crab: Blue crabs, mud crabs, and hairy crabs are enjoyed steamed, stir-fried, or in soups.

* Fish: A wide array of fish, such as grouper, snapper, and pomfret, are cooked in various styles, including steamed, braised, and deep-fried.

Local Specialties:

* Shacha: A unique Xiamen sauce made with fermented soybeans, chilies, and other spices. It's used as a marinade, dipping sauce, and flavoring for various dishes.

* Xiamen Fish Balls: These flavorful fish balls are made with a blend of fish paste, starch, and spices. They're often served in soups or stews.

* Xiamen Fried Rice: A popular street food featuring rice stir-fried with various ingredients, such as seafood, vegetables, and Shacha sauce.

* Xiamen Noodles: Thin, springy noodles often served with a variety of toppings, including meat, seafood, and vegetables.

* Xiamen Dumplings: Small, savory dumplings filled with various fillings, such as pork, shrimp, and vegetables.

Other Popular Dishes:

* Dim Sum: A variety of steamed or fried dumplings, buns, and other small bites.

* Sichuan Cuisine: Spicy and flavorful dishes from the Sichuan province, often featuring chilies and Sichuan peppercorns.

* Cantonese Cuisine: Known for its delicate flavors and focus on fresh ingredients.

* Taiwanese Cuisine: Offers a range of savory and sweet dishes, with influences from Chinese and Japanese cuisine.

Sweet Treats:

* Xiamen Biscuits: These crispy, sweet biscuits are often flavored with sesame seeds, peanuts, or other ingredients.

* Xiamen Tea Cakes: Small, sweet cakes made with tea leaves and other ingredients.

Where to Eat:

* Street Food Stalls: A great way to sample a variety of Xiamen specialties.

* Local Restaurants: Offer authentic Xiamen dishes at affordable prices.

* Fine Dining Restaurants: Provide upscale dining experiences with a focus on seafood and regional cuisine.

Remember that Xiamen's culinary scene is constantly evolving, so be sure to explore different neighborhoods and restaurants to discover new flavors.