In the vast river of Chinese culinary culture, Henan Cuisine, with its unique philosophy of harmony and balance, shines as a brilliant pearl on the map of Chinese gastronomy. Although not traditionally listed among the Eight Great Cuisines, Henan Cuisine enjoys the prestigious title of the Mother of the Eight Great Cuisines. Its profound history, distinctive character, and masterful techniques are truly awe-inspiring.

The essence of Henan Cuisine lies in harmony—finding the perfect equilibrium among sweet, salty, sour, spicy, and bitter. This philosophy originates from Henan's role as a vital transportation hub, where regional flavors converge and interact, ultimately forging Henan Cuisine's distinct principles of "zhong" (balance) and "he" (harmony).

When talking about Henan Cuisine, its classic dishes are a must-mention. From the famous Hongshao Huanghe Liyu (Braised Yellow River Carp), celebrated as "precious as cattle and sheep," to the ancient Mudan Yancai (Peony Swallow Dish) carrying a thousand years of culture; from the Sanxian Tieguo Dan (Three Delicacies Iron Pot Egg) created in the late Qing Dynasty and loved by scholars, to the Bianjing Kaoya (Bianjing Roast Duck) with its crispy skin and tender meat – a tradition dating back to the Northern Song Dynasty – each dish is living proof of history and a taste of cultural heritage.

The history of Henan Cuisine traces back to the late Xia and early Shang dynasties. The "Theory of Harmonizing Five Flavors" established by Yi Yin, the renowned Shang Dynasty prime minister, remains a golden rule in Chinese culinary arts to this day. Generations of Henan Cuisine chefs have mastered this theory, continuously innovating to create unique feasts for the palate. Even in the late Qing Dynasty, Henan Cuisine restaurants distinguished themselves amidst the dominance of Shandong cuisine in Beijing, winning countless admirers—including cultural luminaries like Lu Xun and Liang Shiqiu.

The Henan flavor, like the vast Central Plains itself, is understated, grand, and all-embracing. As the representative of this Henan taste, Henan Cuisine awaits discovery and appreciation by more people – embodying this same spirit of humility, grandeur, and inclusivity.

 Web editors: Shen Jianqi, Li Siyao