In Suzhou, where ancient canals meet modern life, a dish called squirrel-shaped mandarin fish has been stealing the spotlight for centuries 🕰️. Legend says it first graced Emperor Qianlong’s table over 400 years ago—and today, it’s a must-try for foodies chasing culture on a plate.
From Knife to Fryer 🔪🔥
Chef Zhu Rongjin of Deyuelou restaurant reveals the magic: chefs carve the fish into delicate ’squirrel fur’ patterns, fry it to golden perfection, and drench it in a tangy-sweet tomato sauce. But why the name? 🤔
\"When hot sauce hits the fish, it squeaks like a squirrel!\"
Zhu explains. In Chinese tradition, squirrels symbolize luck—making this dish a crispy, squeaky fortune cookie of sorts 🍀.
More Than a Meal 🍽️✨
This isn’t just food—it’s edible art. Imagine a sculpted fish that crackles like a TikTok trend and tastes like a candy apple’s savory cousin. For travelers and culture buffs, it’s a delicious gateway to Suzhou’s culinary soul. Pro tip: Snap a video of that sauce pour for maximum ASMR vibes 📸!
