Discover Pingyao Braised Beef: A 600-Year Flavor Journey(平遥牛肉)
If you want to taste beef that tells the story of China’s Ming and Qing merchants, don’t miss Pingyao Braised Beef. This dish from Shanxi is more than food—it is history on a plate.
1. Origin and History
Pingyao Braised Beef began in the Ming Dynasty and flourished in the Qing era. It was closely tied to the rise of the Jin Merchants. Traders carried this preserved beef on long journeys. Its traditional cooking skills are now listed as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage of China.
2. Cultural Significance
Known as “a culinary treasure of Shanxi”, this dish is a symbol of Jin Merchant culture. It represents honesty, craftsmanship, and hospitality. At local banquets, Pingyao Beef is always the centerpiece.
3. Ingredients and Flavor
Only the best yellow cattle are chosen, often shin or rib meat. The beef is cured with local Pingyao salt and natural spices. The meat is ruby red, tender, and richly aromatic.
Cooking Process
The method follows three ancient steps: slaughtering, curing, and simmering. The secret lies in the “old master stock,” a broth passed down for generations. Slow cooking allows the spices to fully infuse into the beef.
Taste and Texture
The flavor is salty yet fragrant, rich but never greasy. The beef is firm but tender, easy to chew, and bursting with aroma. Paired with liquor, the aftertaste is unforgettable.
How to Eat
The classic way is to enjoy it sliced and served cold. For a local twist, try it inside Pingyao Wantuo, a buckwheat pancake, for a truly authentic experience.
Where to Try
You can find Pingyao Braised Beef in almost every restaurant in the Pingyao Ancient City. Top picks include Hongwu Ji Restaurant and Tianyuan Kui Restaurant. A plate costs about 38–68 RMB. When ordering, simply say “Pingyao Beef.” If you prefer less salt, add “less salty.”
Travel Tips
The English name is Pingyao Braised Beef. This dish is perfect for visitors who prefer non-spicy Chinese food. It is also convenient to carry, with vacuum-packed versions available—ideal as a snack or gift.
Final Word
Take a bite of history! Pingyao Braised Beef is not just food, but an edible invitation to experience six centuries of Shanxi culture. Whether you enjoy it in a local restaurant or at home with a packaged slice, it will tell you the story of the Jin Merchants with every bite. Add it to your must-eat list in China—a feast for both taste and history lovers.
