From steamed buns to mutton soup: Exploring Heze’s signature dishes

Heze, a city in Shandong province, is home to a rich tradition of everyday foods that reflect the region's culinary heritage.

Juancheng county is renowned as the "hometown of steamed buns". Its signature Shandong-style buns are known for their white color, soft texture and widespread popularity.

Yuncheng'szhuangmo, a pan-fried beef-stuffed flatbread, features a golden, crispy crust and tender, juicy filling. Freshly cooked, it offers a fragrant aroma and a savory taste that has endured for centuries.

A bowl of mutton soup, especially from Shanxian county, is how many Heze residents start their day. Milky white, fresh without gaminess and rich yet not greasy, it is both a feast for the palate and a comfort for the soul.

Caoxian county's braised beef, made from premium beef shank with over 10 natural spices and slow-cooked in aged broth, is tender, flavorful and beloved by people of all ages.

These everyday dishes are the true taste of Heze — a culinary code unique to Shandong.

Known as China's "hometown of steamed buns", Juancheng is famous for its soft, white Shandong-stylemantou. [Photo/WeChat account: hezewhly]

Freshly cookedzhuangmo, golden and crispy on the outside and tender within, offers a mouthwatering aroma that speaks of centuries of tradition. [Photo/WeChat account: hezewhly]

A bowl of milky-white mutton soup from Shanxian county is a signature breakfast in Heze, Shandong province. [Photo/WeChat account: hezewhly]