Unlocking Beijing’s “Hardcore” Delicacy: Braised Pork Face with Yanqing Huoshao
Dear international friends, when you explore Beijing’s hutongs and alleys, one culinary treasure you must try is Braised Pork Face (Jiang Zhulian) with Yanqing Huoshao. The tender, savory pork pairs perfectly with the crispy, fluffy pastry, offering a bite of Old Beijing history in every mouthful. Curious about more traditional Beijing flavors? Explore all our recommended spots on the Beijing Local Food Trails page.
I. What is Jiang Zhulian & Yanqing Huoshao
Braised Pork Face – Slow-braised pork head meat with a balance of lean and fat, cooked in a secret sauce with star anise, cinnamon, and soy sauce. Tender, rich, and collagen-rich, it melts in your mouth.
Yanqing Huoshao – Traditional northern pastry from Yanqing District. Crispy exterior, soft fluffy interior, mild wheat aroma. Tear open and sandwich a slice of pork face, optionally add garlic sauce or chili oil.
II. Dining Map: 5 Must-Try Treasure Shops
1. Yanqing Huoshao Wang (Yanqing East Street Branch) – Local Institution
Keywords: Yanqing Huoshao, Jiang Zhulian, Old Beijing Flavor
Location: 26 Dongjie, Yanqing Town, Yanqing District
Price: ¥35/person for set
Insider Tip: Fresh huoshao takes 10 minutes to bake; visit off-peak hours. Also try the Yanqing Tofu Feast. Walk-ins only.
2. Old Beijing Braised Meat Restaurant (Now Huangsi Luzhu) (Nanluoguxiang Branch) – Hutong Charm
Keywords: Jiang Zhulian, Huoshao, Traditional Flavor
Location: 200m east of North Exit, Nanluoguxiang
Price: ¥45/person including side & sour plum soup
Insider Tip: Best visited before 11 AM or after 2 PM. Queue number via Dianping recommended.
3. Xiaochang Chen Restaurant (Nanheng Street Branch) – Luzhu Famous
Keywords: Jiang Zhulian, Yanqing Huoshao, Signature Dish
Location: 194 Nanheng East Street, Xicheng District
Price: ¥58/portion Jiang Zhulian; ¥3 each Huoshao
Insider Tip: Pair with Beibingyang Soda to cut richness. Phone reservations available.
4. Huoshao Renjia (Changping Government Street Branch) – Changping Favorite
Keywords: Huoshao, Braised Pork Face, Crispy Pastry
Location: 15 Zhengfu Street, Changping District
Price: ¥40/person including side dish
Insider Tip: Baking takes time; call ahead to confirm. Walk-ins only; may share table during peak hours.
5.He’s Braised Pork Face (Shixia Village, Badaling Town) – Great Wall Village Favorite
Keywords: Jiang Zhulian, Yanqing Huoshao, Great Wall Village Food
Location: Shixia Village, Badaling Town, Yanqing District
Price: ¥68/person (includes pork face, 2 huoshao, side dishes, porridge)
Atmosphere: Rustic farmhouse setting with mountain views
Insider Tip: Popular on weekends; explore the ancient village while waiting. No online booking.
III. Practical Tips for Eating
- Meat-Clamping Technique: Tear huoshao, sandwich a slice of Braised Pork Face, drizzle garlic sauce or chili oil.
- Perfect Drink: Beibingyang Soda, sour plum soup (suanmeitang), or Erguotou for alcohol lovers.
- Sightseeing Synergy: Near Yanqing, visit Badaling Great Wall or Longqing Gorge. Near Nanluoguxiang, stroll Shichahai lakes.
- Dining Recommendations: Beyond the Braised Pork Face (Jiang Zhulian), you should also sample their other braised meats, such as the Braised Pork Knuckle (Jiang Zhuti). They are guaranteed not to disappoint! The braised meats (jiangrou) at all the luzhu shops we introduced previously are also excellent.
IV. Conclusion
Braised Pork Face with Yanqing Huoshao is a taste of Beijing’s soul. From Yanqing fields to bustling hutongs, this dish showcases Old Beijingers’ love for life and culinary wisdom. Every bite blends crispness, tenderness, and history—an unforgettable flavor journey. Check out our guide on Best Foods to Try in Beijing for local must-eats beyond Braised Pork Face. Discover even more local flavors in our article on Best Places to Eat Local Beijing Snacks.
