松鼠鳜鱼Suzhou Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish: The “Singing” Dish That Foreign Travelers Love, A Sweet and Sour Chinese Classic
If you’ve ever imagined a dish that could “sing” at your table, Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish is exactly that! This famous dish is both a feast for the eyes and a delight for the taste buds, perfectly embodying the Jiangnan philosophy of “refined dining.” With its crispy golden exterior and sweet-and-sour glaze, it has become a beloved favorite among countless international visitors exploring authentic Chinese food.
1. Origins and History
The story of this dish dates back to Emperor Qianlong’s southern tours. Legend has it that while visiting Suzhou in disguise, he was enchanted by a dish shaped like a squirrel, with crispy texture and sizzling sound. In reality, the dish evolved from the creative banquets of ancient scholars—when hot sauce was poured over fried fish, it produced a crackling “squeak” like a squirrel’s call, giving the dish its unique name.
2. Cultural Significance
In Jiangnan, this dish is a true showpiece at banquets, symbolizing hospitality and the chef’s refined skill. Often served on festive occasions, it carries wishes of “abundance year after year” and “sweetness in life,” reflecting the elegance and artistry of Jiangnan culture.
3. Ingredients and Features
The star of the dish is fresh Mandarin Fish, prized for its tender, nearly boneless flesh. The magic lies in the knife work—the fish is scored into delicate diamond cuts that puff up when fried, resembling squirrel fur. It’s then topped with a glossy amber sauce made from tomato paste, fruit juice (like orange), and pine nuts, creating a dish that is both stunning and delicious.
4. Cooking Process
The craft is summarized as “one cut, three fires.” First, precise knife cuts ensure the fish opens up beautifully. Next, it’s fried at high temperature until golden and crispy. Finally, the sizzling hot sweet-and-sour sauce is poured over the fish, producing the iconic “squeak” that makes it seem alive—hence the playful name “Squirrel Fish.”
5. Flavor and Texture
At first bite, the tangy-sweet sauce bursts across your palate, followed by tender fish inside and irresistibly crispy outside. The flavor is layered with fruity notes, sweet yet refreshing, and never greasy—making it a dish that even those who usually avoid fish will fall in love with.
6. How to Eat
Simply enjoy it as it is! Pairing it with fragrant jasmine rice balances the richness of the sauce while enhancing the fish’s natural freshness. Locals in Jiangnan often accompany it with a cup of Longjing green tea, creating a perfect harmony between refreshing tea and sweet-and-sour flavors.
7. Where to Try
You can find this dish in many restaurants specializing in Suzhou cuisine (Su Bang) or Shanghai cuisine (Ben Bang). Top recommendations include De Yue Lou in Suzhou or Lao Zheng Xing Restaurant in Shanghai (about ¥98–158 per dish). When ordering, just say “Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish.” If you prefer sweeter flavors, you can ask for “extra sauce.” Completely non-spicy, it’s kid-friendly and perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth!
8. Tips for Travelers
The English names are “Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish” or “Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish.” This dish is highly popular among international diners, as its flavor profile is similar to Western-style sweet-and-sour dishes but lighter and fresher. Worried about bones? No need—the Mandarin Fish has very few, and they are carefully removed for easy eating.
Fun Home Cooking Experiment
Want to try at home? Score the fish, coat it with starch, and deep-fry until crisp. Then prepare a sauce with tomato paste, pineapple juice, and a dash of vinegar. Pour it over the fish and listen to the magical “sizzle”—you’ve just created your own table-side performance!
Whether or not you’re planning a trip to the water towns of Jiangnan, Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish is worth seeking out in any authentic Chinese restaurant. More than just a dish, it’s a culinary drama that has delighted diners for over 300 years—crispy, tangy, sweet, and absolutely unforgettable. Be sure to add it to your “must-try Chinese food list”, and next time, confidently tell your server: “I’d like the fish that sings!”
