Move over, ramen and pho – there’s a new star in Asia’s culinary scene! Tianshui spicy hot pot, from China’s Gansu Province, has erupted on social media, drawing foodies nationwide to its fiery embrace. The dish’s secret? A mind-tingling combo of Maiji peppercorns and Gangu chili peppers, creating what locals call the 『soul flavor』 – a spice so addictive it’s practically a viral challenge.
The Soul of Spice 
Forget generic chili oil! Tianshui’s 『numb-spicy』 magic comes from hyper-local ingredients grown in the region’s unique climate. Farmers have cultivated these peppercorns for centuries, and now food influencers are dubbing it 『mouth fireworks』 – one TikTok video at a time.
More Than Just Food 
Tianshui isn’t just serving plates – they’re rolling out the red carpet. The local government launched special spicy hot pot shuttle buses , bundled food trails with cultural stops, and even created chili-themed merch (yes, including peppercorn-scented candles
). Talk about a full-sensory experience!
As one 22-year-old traveler posted: 『Came for the heat, stayed for the heritage.』 Whether you’re a spice warrior or a culture explorer, Tianshui’s got the recipe for your next adventure.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com