Luoyang Water Banquet, known as "Luoyang shuixi" in Chinese, is a famous traditional banquet from Luoyang, Henan Province. It has a history of over a thousand years, dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618–907). The banquet is named "Water Banquet" because most of the dishes are soups or have a soupy consistency. According to legend, it was created by the Empress Wu Zetian, who loved the variety of soups and stews. Today, it is one of the most iconic culinary traditions of Luoyang.

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Ingredients: The banquet uses a variety of ingredients, including meat, poultry, seafood, and vegetables. The ingredients are cut into small pieces.

2. Cooking: The ingredients are cooked in a rich broth, often with seasonings like ginger, scallions, and soy sauce.

3. Serving: The dishes are served in a specific order, with each course being a soup or stew. The banquet includes 24 courses in total.

Review and Appreciation

Luoyang Water Banquet is loved for its variety and rich, comforting flavors. The soups are light yet flavorful, and the unique dining experience makes it a memorable meal.