NAIROBI, Kenya — Fresh from being designated a UNESCO "City of Gastronomy," Quanzhou has added another accolade to its growing list of culinary honours. At the World Chinese Cuisine Competition (Africa Division) recently held in Nairobi, Kenya, the Hutou Snack Delegation from Quanzhou impressed judges and audiences alike with their exceptional craftsmanship and cultural depth—winning two Special Gold Awards, two Gold Awards, and one Silver Award. Their success brought the distinct Minnan (Southern Fujian) flavours to new heights on the African continent, further enhancing Quanzhou's international culinary reputation.

A pioneering moment as the World Chinese Cuisine Competition is held in Africa for the first time (Courtesy of An Media)

　　As the "World Emporium of Song–Yuan China" and a UNESCO Creative City, Quanzhou's recent achievements as a City of Gastronomy stem from its deep-rooted culinary heritage, its seamless blend of land-and-sea flavours, and its spirit of innovation that bridges cultures. The outstanding performance of the Hutou Snack team exemplifies how Quanzhou's living food traditions are reaching global audiences. Led by Li Ruirong, President of the Hutou Snack Industry Association of Anxi, the delegation brought together local restaurateurs under the concept of "authentic ingredients with standardised techniques," presenting the essence of Minnan street cuisine on an international stage.

　　The competition featured signature Hutou delicacies that captivated both judges and visitors. The Hutou rice noodles, known for their silky yet resilient texture and natural rice aroma, were prepared through traditional handcraft methods integrated with modern production standards—each strand embodying generations of artisanal dedication. The fermented bamboo shoot bun, with its soft, glutinous exterior and savoury, aromatic filling, highlighted the resourceful use of mountain ingredients typical of Minnan cuisine. Several fusion dishes also demonstrated creative adaptation to global preferences for health and presentation, combining tradition with contemporary culinary aesthetics. The chefs' precise knife skills, masterful control of heat, and inventive plating design not only impressed the panel but also drew enthusiastic praise from the international audience—showcasing the universal appeal of Quanzhou's food culture.

　　"Hutou snacks are not just food; they are culture," said Li Ruirong. "This competition marks a significant step in our dual-track promotion strategy—strengthening both domestic and international presence. Beyond the medals, we're proud that Minnan cuisine has become a vivid medium for China–Africa cultural exchange, allowing African audiences to experience the everyday warmth and depth of Quanzhou's culinary heritage through taste."

　　Following its acclaimed showcase at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, where Quanzhou cuisine wowed global guests, this latest success in Africa represents yet another stride in its international journey. From Paris to Nairobi—and to the growing number of Quanzhou restaurants around the world—Minnan cuisine is steadily gaining recognition for its diversity, openness, and living heritage.

　　The Hutou team's victories at the World Chinese Cuisine Competition not only affirm Quanzhou's strength as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, but also highlight the city's vibrant capacity for innovation through tradition and growth through exchange. As locals like to say, "Wherever there are Chinese communities, the aroma of Quanzhou cuisine can be found." With centuries of maritime heritage and the warmth of everyday life, Quanzhou's food culture continues to share its fragrance with the world.

　　(By Rong Media reporters Wang Yujing, Chen Yunqing, and Qiu Yongfa)