- Culinary
- Signature Dishes
Experience the rich flavors of Nanan, where culinary mastery meets history. A feast of gourmet delights, legendary tales, and vibrant folk traditions, the Chenggong Banquet indulges both the palate and the soul while showcasing the region’s cultural and historical brilliance. Recently, this prestigious banquet was officially recognized on the Landmark Gastronomy List, cementing its status as a culinary treasure.
A Taste of Nanan’s Legacy
Nanan, historically known as Wurong Prefecture, is renowned for its deep cultural heritage and as the birthplace of Zheng Chenggong, the national hero who expelled Dutch colonizers from Taiwan. His legacy endures not only through history but also in the flavors of his homeland.
Quanzhou Cuisine: A Tradition of Freshness
At the heart of Quanzhou cuisine lies a commitment to freshness and quality. Ingredients are meticulously selected—seafood must be pristine, and vegetables must be seasonal. By sourcing locally and preserving the natural essence of each ingredient, Quanzhou’s culinary tradition offers an authentic and refined gastronomic experience.
With an extensive coastline, vast tidal flats, and natural harbors, Quanzhou has long been a haven for seafood. Classical Chinese poetry praises its abundance:
"The wealth of Qi and Qing lies in their land,
But here, tides bring forth fish and shrimp,
Flowing into markets without fear of price."
Signature dishes such as Shenhu Meatballs, Spanish Mackerel Soup, and Fish Paste Soup exemplify this dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients, forming an essential part of the local culinary heritage.
A Banquet Honoring a Hero
As 2024 marks the 400th birth anniversary of Zheng Chenggong, the Chenggong Banquet has been thoughtfully curated to honor his legacy. Featuring a selection of regional delicacies, the banquet pays homage to Nanan’s rich culinary and cultural traditions.
The menu includes:
Shiting Green Tea (A tribute to the region’s tea-making heritage, which dates back to the Jin dynasty. Historical records mention tea cultivation as early as AD 376.)
Honglai Chicken Feet
Meishan Candied Jujube
Shishan Fish Paste Balls
Xiangyun Pork Knuckle
Kuixia Oysters
Penghua Handmade Noodles
Dongtian Duck Soup
Yingdu Glutinous Rice Cakes
Pengxi Pineapple
Each dish is a testament to Nanan’s culinary identity, blending centuries-old techniques with modern culinary artistry. Dish names creatively reference key episodes from Zheng Chenggong’s life, bringing history to the dining table.
More than just a meal, the Chenggong Banquet is a journey through history. Every dish tells a story, guiding diners through a heroic past, inspiring admiration, and reconnecting them with Nanan’s cultural heritage.