Cultural discovery through Sweet and Sour Pork

Sweet and Sour Pork opened a door into a cuisine I'd previously known almost nothing about. The aromatic and complex flavours are unlike anything in my usual rotation and I mean that positively. Chinese cuisine encompasses eight major regional schools with distinct ingredients and techniques. Understanding that context made the dish taste different — richer with meaning.

I learned that Shaoxing wine is central to this cuisine's character, not just a seasoning. The a street stall in Chengdu setting was authentic and helpful for understanding what I was eating. chrysanthemum tea completed the picture. A genuinely educational meal.