摘要：Nestled in the heart of central China's Hunan Province, Changsha is a city where food tells a story of fire and flavor. Known for

Nestled in the heart of central China's Hunan Province, Changsha is a city where food tells a story of fire and flavor. Known for its bold, spicy cuisine, Changsha's culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of heat, aroma and soul-warming satisfaction. Here, every bite bursts with Hunan's signature flavors — fiery chilies and aromatic spices. From bustling night markets to humble street stalls, the city's food culture thrives on its unapologetic love for spice — an irresistible draw for any food enthusiast seeking a taste of central China's culinary magic. Among Changsha's most iconic offerings are stinky tofu, pork and pepper stir-fry, spicy crayfish, and Changsha rice noodles, each a testament to the city's fearless approach to flavor.

Stinky tofu is typically served with chili oil and cilantro. /CGTN

Stinky tofu is typically served with chili oil and cilantro. /CGTN

Stinky tofu

At first whiff, Changsha's stinky tofu might catch many visitors off guard with its pungent aroma — a scent that locals affectionately describe as "fragrant in its funk." This tofu is fermented to perfection, deep-fried until crispy, and typically served with a drizzle of chili oil and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. The contrast between its crunchy exterior and soft, creamy interior, paired with the fiery kick of the sauce, transforms each bite into a thrilling adventure for the taste buds.

Stir-fried pork and pepper is a favorite choice for many. /CGTN

Stir-fried pork and pepper is a favorite choice for many. /CGTN

Stir-fried pork and pepper

No visit to Changsha is complete without savoring a plate of Stir-fried pork and pepper, a dish that embodies the fiery spirit of Hunan cuisine. Tender slices of pork are wok-tossed with vibrant green and red chilies, garlic and a hint of fermented black beans. The dish serves as comfort food that locals crave after a long day, best enjoyed with a bowl of steamed rice to soak up every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Spicy crayfish is a beloved local delicacy in Changsha City of central China's Hunan Province. /CGTN

Spicy crayfish is a beloved local delicacy in Changsha City of central China's Hunan Province. /CGTN

Spicy crayfish

As the sun sets, Changsha's night markets come alive with the irresistible aroma of spicy crayfish, a beloved local delicacy. These small freshwater crustaceans are boiled with a medley of spices, Sichuan peppercorns and generous amounts of dried chilies — then stir-fried to lock in their succulent flavor. This dish is typically shared with friends over cold drinks and lively conversation, perfectly capturing the vibrant spirit of Changsha's nightlife.

A bowl of Changsha rice noodles. /CGTN

Changsha rice noodles

Changsha rice noodles exemplify the city's culinary heritage, serving as a staple dish enjoyed throughout the day. These distinctive noodles are presented in a fragrant broth delicately balanced with chili oil, soy sauce and a subtle vinegar accent. This dish is traditionally garnished with finely prepared minced meat, preserved vegetables and fresh scallions. The noodles' texture harmoniously complements the robust broth, creating a distinctive flavor profile characteristic of regional cuisine. Whether served at established eateries or traditional street stalls, this signature dish represents the essence of Changsha's renowned food culture and its distinctive gastronomic tradition.

(Cover designed by Du Chenxin; all photos taken by Wang Hongyuan and Zhou Zhiyue)

Source: China Global Television Network

来源：湖南日报