Beyond the Big Eight: A More Complete Map of Chinese Cuisine
This article challenges the popular 'Big Eight' categorization of Chinese cuisine, arguing that it's an incomplete and biased representation. The author meticulously explores the vast diversity of Chinese regional cuisines, going beyond the commonly known eight. The piece presents a far more comprehensive map, including detailed breakdowns of regional variations within provinces like Guangdong (six cuisines, including Macau and Hong Kong), Sichuan, Guizhou, Yunnan, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Jiangxi, Henan, Shaanxi, Shanxi, Hebei, Beijing, Tianjin, Northeast China, Inner Mongolia, and Xinjiang. It further delves into the fascinating evolution of Chinese food in Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, and Southeast Asia, highlighting the interplay of geography, culture, and history. This isn't just a list; it's a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Chinese culinary traditions.