青鱼秃肺Qingyu Tufei: A Hidden Shanghai Delicacy – The Golden Feast of Benbang Cuisine

Qingyu Tufei: Shanghai’s Hidden Treasure for Food Lovers

Dear culinary adventurer, if you’ve already tasted dumplings and Peking duck, it’s time to discover a secret dish that only true food connoisseurs know — Qingyu Tufei! At first glance, this name may sound mysterious, but it is one of the most luxurious experiences in Shanghai’s Benbang cuisine, like uncovering a dazzling pearl hidden in an ordinary alley.

1. Origins and History

Qingyu Tufei originated in 1930s Shanghai, first created at the legendary restaurant Dexingguan. Resourceful Shanghai chefs discovered that the liver of the green carp (nicknamed Tufei) became unbelievably delicious when cooked with skill. The dish reflects the Shanghainese culinary philosophy of “turning the ordinary into the extraordinary” and soon became an iconic highlight of Benbang cuisine.

2. Cultural Significance

Known as the “luxury of Benbang cuisine”, Qingyu Tufei is a symbol of Shanghai’s culinary pride. For seasoned gourmets, it represents respect for rare ingredients and the pinnacle of local cooking skills. Traditionally, it was reserved for important banquets, showing both the host’s refined taste and their genuine hospitality.

3. Unique Ingredients

The main ingredient is the liver of a large green carp weighing over 5 kilograms. Each fish yields only a small piece, making it extremely precious. It is cooked with seasonal vegetables such as bamboo shoots and peas. The finished dish shines golden and glossy, with the liver rich and creamy like French foie gras, earning it the nickname “foie gras of the water”.

4. Cooking Technique

The key lies in the quick stir-fry method. The liver is carefully cleaned to remove any strong flavors, then swiftly stir-fried in hot oil. Soy sauce, sugar, Shaoxing wine, and other seasonings are added, with the sauce reduced over high heat. Precision is everything — one second too long and it becomes tough, too short and it’s undercooked.

5. Flavor and Texture

The first bite is unbelievably smooth and velvety, almost melting on your tongue. The rich liver flavor blends perfectly with the savory-sweet sauce, while a faint aroma of wine lingers in the aftertaste. It’s a layered and luxurious flavor experience that surprises even seasoned food lovers.

6. Best Way to Enjoy

The ideal pairing is a bowl of steamed white rice, which soaks up the thick, savory sauce. Add a glass of chilled beer or crisp white wine to cut through the richness, creating a perfect balance for your palate.

7. Where to Try It in Shanghai

You can taste authentic Qingyu Tufei at old-school Shanghai Benbang restaurants like Dexingguan or Lao Zhengxing. Because the ingredient is rare, the dish is priced higher than most (around 80–150 RMB per serving). Since it requires complex preparation, it’s best to call ahead and order in advance by asking for “Qingyu Tufei” (qīng yú tū fèi).

8. Travel Tips

In English, the dish is sometimes called “Braised Green Fish Liver” or “Shanghai Style Fish Liver Stew”. Be aware: this is a rich, bold-flavored dish, perfect for adventurous travelers who love exploring unique ingredients. As fish liver is high in cholesterol, a small portion is enough to savor its unforgettable taste.

🍳 Bonus: Try It at Home

1. Buy fresh green carp liver and rub gently with salt and vinegar to remove any fishy taste.
2. Blanch briefly, then cool in ice water to keep it tender.
3. Heat a wok, stir-fry ginger and garlic, then add the liver.
4. Add soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, and a little water.
5. Reduce quickly over high heat, thicken with a light starch slurry.
6. Sprinkle chopped scallions and serve hot!

Dear traveler, Qingyu Tufei may not be a familiar flavor, but it is exactly this kind of rare discovery that allows you to truly understand Shanghai’s food culture. While walking along the Bund or exploring the historic Yu Garden, step into an old Benbang restaurant, order a plate of Qingyu Tufei, and experience the essence of Shanghai cuisine. Add this hidden gem to your must-eat list in China and let your taste buds enjoy a truly luxurious adventure.

Remember: the most unforgettable food experiences often require a spirit of adventure. In China, the greatest gourmets are always searching for the next culinary surprise — and Qingyu Tufei might just be yours! 🌃🍽️