Recently, the “Chinese Culinary Gathering” food tasting event at the United Nations brought Quanzhou cuisine into the international spotlight, marking a significant milestone in the recognition of Quanzhou's culinary heritage. The event not only highlighted the rich diversity of Quanzhou cuisine but also paved the way for its bid to become a "City of Gastronomy."

　　Quanzhou cuisine, influenced by the ancient customs of aristocratic families migrating south during the Wei and Jin dynasties, as well as the fertile produce of the Jinjiang River, represents a unique fusion of coastal ingredients and cross-cultural flavors. Enriched by spices and techniques from the historic Maritime Silk Routes, this culinary tradition blends the bounty of mountains and seas, harmonizing Eastern and Western influences. The event offered the world a deeper understanding of Quanzhou’s culinary legacy, marking a promising start for its bid to become a "City of Gastronomy."

　　Quanzhou Cuisine Takes Center Stage at UNESCO Headquarters

　　On April 15–16, 2024, the State Council Information Office, UNESCO, and the Chinese National Commission for UNESCO co-hosted the "International Symposium on the Concept of Cultural Exchange" at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. During this event, the China Cuisine Association organized a reception featuring Quanzhou’s distinctive dishes alongside other renowned Chinese culinary styles. The chef team, which included masters from Quanzhou, Fuzhou, Chaozhou, Guilin, Taiyuan, and Beijing, presented a spectacular showcase of Fujian cuisine, one of China’s most revered culinary traditions.

　　Among the offerings, Quanzhou chefs presented signature dishes with Min (Fujian) flavors that garnered widespread acclaim from international guests. Their culinary skills and the refined flavors of Quanzhou’s traditional dishes underscored the region’s unique gastronomic heritage.

　　The “Chinese Culture: Elegant Gathering” Food Tasting Event Attracts Guests from Around the World.

　　International Recognition and Cultural Diplomacy

　　The “Chinese Culinary Gathering” introduced Quanzhou cuisine to the global stage, with attendees praising Quanzhou as “a food lover’s paradise.” As UNESCO Deputy Director-General Qu Xing noted, the culinary team, led by Yang Liu, President of the China Cuisine Association, thoughtfully prepared dishes that beautifully illustrated China’s rich culinary heritage. This event marked a historic moment for Chinese cuisine at the United Nations, showcasing Quanzhou’s gastronomic artistry and providing a valuable platform for cultural diplomacy.

　　Chef Hu Manrong, one of the distinguished chefs from Quanzhou, shared insights into the challenges of presenting Quanzhou’s flavors at such a prestigious event. From selecting ingredients to adjusting recipes for international dietary preferences, the chefs successfully maintained the authenticity and cultural significance of Quanzhou cuisine while adapting it for diverse palates.

　　Culinary Philosophy: Harmony and Balance

　　Quanzhou cuisine is celebrated for its philosophy of balance, where harmony between ingredients is paramount. This principle, deeply ingrained in Quanzhou’s culinary culture, is reflected in every aspect of the cooking process, from ingredient selection and knife skills to cooking techniques and seasoning. Chef Liu Shuwen, President of the Quanzhou Restaurant and Culinary Association, emphasized that the essence of Quanzhou cuisine lies in the "Way of Harmony," which strives to achieve a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and nutritional value.

　　This focus on precise cooking temperatures, thoughtful ingredient use, and nutritional balance aligns with global trends toward healthier eating, making Quanzhou cuisine an ideal candidate for international recognition. Its emphasis on fresh, natural ingredients and health-conscious choices resonates with today’s global food culture.

　　A Global Stage for Quanzhou’s Culinary Heritage

　　Quanzhou’s participation in the UNESCO food tasting event represents a pivotal moment in its quest for international culinary recognition. The event not only showcased the culinary talents of Quanzhou’s chefs but also highlighted the city’s growing role in cultural diplomacy. As Quanzhou prepares its bid to become a "City of Gastronomy," the event provided invaluable global exposure for the city’s cuisine.

　　Chef Hu Manrong noted that the team’s efforts to introduce Quanzhou’s cuisine to a global audience have sparked significant interest. The challenge of adapting traditional dishes to international tastes while preserving their authenticity reflects Quanzhou’s commitment to both innovation and tradition.

　　With its distinctive coastal flavors and integration of global culinary practices, Quanzhou’s gastronomy is poised to thrive on the international stage, appealing to both global palates and the increasing demand for healthier, diverse culinary experiences.

　　Yang Liu, President of the China Cuisine Association, Praises Quanzhou Cuisine in an Interview.　

　　Chef Hu Manrong Preparing Buddha Jumps Over the Wall (A Luxurious Stew with Abalone, Sea Cucumber, and Ginseng) at the Event.

　　Satay Sauce Braised Beef with Stir-Fried Seasonal Vegetables Perfectly Paired with a Green Plate.

　　Chef Liu Shuwen Preparing Xunpu Red Sturgeon Rice Live at the Event.

　　Chefs Hu Manrong and Liu Shuwen Posed for a Photo at the UNESCO Headquarters.  

　　Looking Ahead: The Path to Global Recognition

　　Quanzhou’s push for the "City of Gastronomy" designation is supported by a strategic plan aimed at elevating the city’s culinary industry. This includes fostering industry partnerships, developing culinary brands, and promoting innovation while preserving traditional techniques. These efforts will not only strengthen Quanzhou’s position within China but also enhance its international influence in the global gastronomic community.

　　With continued support from local authorities, such as the Quanzhou Market Supervision Administration and the Quanzhou Bureau of Commerce, as well as collaborations with national culinary organizations, Quanzhou is on track to further develop its culinary sector. Future plans include the creation of a Quanzhou Gastronomy Museum, increased policy support for the food industry, and expanded international exchanges.

　　Quanzhou’s culinary journey continues as the city embraces its rich cultural heritage while positioning itself as a hub for gastronomic exchange on the world stage. As Quanzhou strives to become a beacon of Chinese cuisine, its fusion of mountain and sea flavors promises to captivate food lovers around the globe.

　　Journalists: Lai Xiaoling, Qiu Yongfa

　　Image Source: China Cuisine Association, Quanzhou Television Station