These types of Suzhou noodles dominate summer table

When Xiaoshu, or Minor Heat, arrives to signify the start of hot days, the following bowls of noodles favored by Suzhou locals are the ones to help beat the heat.

Fan-Cooled Noodles 

When the scorching heat dampens your appetite, a bowl of fan-cooled noodles infused with Zao oil (a famous condiment from Taicang) is the ultimate remedy to satiate your taste buds.

After boiling the noodles, spread them on bamboo trays and cool them with an electric fan. By doing so, the refreshing noodles maintain a springy texture.

Fengzhen Braised Pork Noodles

Originating in Fengqiao Town, Suzhou, this dish is locally known as White Broth Noodles. After it was introduced to urban areas, it won widespread acclaim and was hailed as "the most intricate, exquisite, and delicious bowl of Suzhou-style noodles".

When it is served on the table, the most captivating feature is the heady aroma of fermented rice wine wafting from the bowl. If you bite a slice of tender braised pork and sip the broth, you will be blown away by the delicious, appetizing, rich, and sweet taste of the dish. 

Three-Shrimp Noodles

At the peak of the roe shrimp season, Suzhou locals yearn for a bowl of three-shrimp noodles.

The noodles are extremely exquisite from the beginning of the ingredient selection. Live river shrimps are meticulously split into the parts of meat, roe, and brain. When the noodles are served, the shrimp meat is firm, the roe is flavorful, and the brain is creamy.

Braised Duck Noodles

As the old saying goes, "Ducks are best in mid-July, taro in mid-August." Summer ducks are considered the plumpest, making braised duck noodles a seasonal delicacy in summer.

The essence of this seasonal dish lies in its traditional braising broth. Locally sourced ducks are first poached, then simmered in a fragrant marinade, and finally sliced as a topping over a bowl of noodles with clear broth. Refreshing and aromatic, the dish embodies the refined elegance of Suzhou cuisine.

Source: 好玩苏州 (WeChat ID: suzhouwlv)
Source：iSzhou