What are the primary influences on Haipai cuisine?

Haipai cuisine draws influence from several other regions within China, as well as from Western cooking traditions. These influences are adapted to suit the local palate and the availability of local ingredients in Shanghai.

What are the major types of Western-style cooking represented in Haipai cuisine?

Haipai cuisine is divided into several major types, reflecting different European culinary influences. These include French, Italian, Russian, British, and German styles of cooking.

Which specific type of Haipai cuisine gained significant popularity due to its affordability?

Russian-type dishes within Haipai cuisine, such as the Shanghai-style borscht, received a great welcome because they were more affordable than other Western-style dishes.

What are some of the most well-known dishes associated with Haipai cuisine today?

The most famous dishes of Haipai cuisine include Shanghai-style borscht (luosong tang), fried pork chops (a type of breaded cutlet), and Shanghai salad, which is a variation of Olivier salad. Other popular items include baked clams, baked crabs, and jin bi duo soup, often called "million dollar soup."

What has been the trend for Haipai restaurants since China's economic reforms began in 1978?

Since China implemented economic reforms in 1978, the number of Haipai restaurants has gradually declined. This is largely due to the increasing establishment of authentic Western restaurants in Shanghai.

What flavors are still considered representative of "old Shanghai" today?

The flavors of "old Shanghai" are still represented by dishes like luosong tang and fried pork chops served with Worcestershire sauce, which continue to be enjoyed by many.

How did Western culture initially enter Shanghai's culinary landscape?

After Shanghai opened to foreign trade, Western culture gradually introduced new culinary practices, leading to the establishment of Western restaurants in the city. These early Western dishes were sometimes referred to as "Fan dishes."

Why did early Western dishes need to be adapted for Chinese diners?

Many Chinese people found it difficult to adapt to certain aspects of traditional Western cooking, such as the preparation of medium-rare beefsteak. This led to the adaptation of Western dishes to better suit local preferences.

What were the distinct characteristics of French, British, and Italian styles within Shanghai's Western cuisine?

Within Shanghai's Western cuisine, French-style dishes focused on fresh ingredients and refined preparation. British-style cuisine emphasized seasoning, while Italian-style cuisine prioritized the original flavors of the ingredients.

What historical event led to a significant influx of Russian emigres to Shanghai?

The October Revolution in the Soviet Union in 1917 caused a large wave of Russian white émigrés to move to China, with many settling in Shanghai.

What area of Shanghai became known as "Little Russia" due to the Russian emigre population?

An area along Xiafei Road (now Middle Huaihai Road) became known as "Little Russia" because many Russian emigres, referred to as luosong, opened numerous restaurants there.

Which two specific Russian dishes became very popular in Shanghai, and why?

Borscht and buttered bread (butterbrot) became highly popular in Shanghai due to their low prices, making them accessible to a wider audience.

Approximately how many Haipai restaurants were operating in Shanghai by the end of 1937?

By the end of 1937, Shanghai boasted over 200 Haipai restaurants, with a significant concentration located on Xiafei Road and Fuzhou Road.

What major political event in 1949 significantly impacted the development of Shanghai's Western cuisine?

The establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949 marked a turning point, leading to changes in the operation and availability of Western-style restaurants.

How did the number of Western-style restaurants in Shanghai change after 1949?

Following the establishment of the People's Republic of China, a large number of Western-style restaurants closed down. Only 18 remained in the Huangpu District after adopting a public-private joint management model.

During periods of supply shortages, how did Shanghai residents adapt to consuming Western food?

Shanghai people found ways to enjoy Western food even with limited supplies by substituting local ingredients for imported Western ones. Examples include using Chinese mitten crabs instead of sea crabs and crushed soda crackers instead of bread powder.

What happened to Western food in China following the Cultural Revolution?

Western food was largely removed from China after the Cultural Revolution. Famous Western restaurants were often renamed and began serving traditional Chinese dishes.

What was the fate of the Red House (Shanghai) restaurant during the Cultural Revolution?

During the Cultural Revolution, the well-known Western restaurant, the Red House (Shanghai), was renamed the Red Flag Restaurant and subsequently began serving traditional Chinese dishes.

What trend has been observed regarding Haipai restaurants since China's reform and opening up policy?

Since China's reform and opening up, there has been a dramatic increase in authentic Chinese restaurants, while the number of Western-style restaurants serving Haipai dishes has declined, with many closing in the 1990s.

Where did the Chinese-style borscht, known as luosong-tang, originally develop?

The Chinese-style borscht, or luosong-tang, originated in Harbin, a city located in northeast China near the Russian border.

How does the Shanghai version of borscht differ from the traditional Russian recipe?

The Shanghai variety of borscht differs significantly by removing beetroot and using tomato paste for color and sweetness. This adaptation was made because Shanghai's climate was unsuitable for growing beets, and the original sour taste was unfamiliar to local palates.

What ingredient is used in Shanghai borscht to achieve sweetness and reduce sourness?

Tomato paste is used in Shanghai borscht, and its sourness is reduced by frying it in oil. White sugar is then added to the soup to create a balance of sweet and sour flavors.

What is sometimes used as an alternative to tomato paste in Shanghai borscht?

Pre-sweetened ketchup can be used as an alternative to tomato paste in the preparation of Shanghai borscht.

How is thickness achieved in Shanghai-style borscht without using cream?

Flour is used instead of cream to thicken the Shanghai-style borscht, avoiding the sourness that cream might introduce.

What are the typical core ingredients found in most Shanghai-style borscht recipes?

Most recipes for Shanghai-style borscht contain beef and its broth, potatoes, and leafy vegetables.

What optional ingredients might be added to Shanghai-style borscht?

Sometimes, Hongchang sausage and Worcestershire sauce are added to Shanghai-style borscht recipes.

What other European soup influences might be seen in variations of Shanghai borscht?

Some variations of Shanghai borscht may incorporate influences from mirepoix or minestrone, including ingredients like carrots, celery, onions, and bay leaves.

What is Shanghai-style borscht often served with?

The soup is frequently accompanied by rice.

What is the Shanghai-style fried pork chop a local adaptation of?

The Shanghai-style fried pork chop is a local variation of the breaded cutlet, a dish found in various cuisines.

How is the pork prepared before frying for the Shanghai-style fried pork chop?

Similar to dishes like tonkatsu, the pork is tenderized and flattened by beating it with the back of a knife before it is coated and fried.

What is used to coat the pork chop before frying, and what is the purpose?

The pork chop is coated with bread crumbs before frying. This helps prevent it from becoming too greasy and results in a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

What ingredient was historically used as a substitute for bread crumbs in Shanghai during times of scarcity?

During periods when supplies were limited in Shanghai, crushed soda crackers were used as a substitute for bread crumbs, imparting a unique flavor to the fried pork chops.

What specific sauce is traditionally served with Shanghai-style fried pork chops?

In Shanghai, the fried pork chops are served with a local sauce called la jiangyou, which is a localized version of British Worcestershire sauce.

What is the Shanghai-style potato salad a variation of?

The potato salad commonly known as Shanghai-style salad is a local adaptation of the Russian Olivier salad.

How is Shanghai-style potato salad typically prepared?

It is made by mixing salad dressing with shredded boiled potatoes and diced sausages. Minced turnips and diced peas are also sometimes included.

What is the difference in how the salad dressing for Shanghai-style potato salad is prepared today versus originally?

Nowadays, most people use ready-made salad dressing bought from supermarkets. Originally, the dressing was prepared from scratch by patiently mixing salad oil, egg yolks, and mayonnaise for an extended period.

What other cuisines are mentioned as examples of Western-influenced cooking in Asia?

The text mentions Yōshoku, a Western-influenced cuisine in Japan, and Cha chaan teng, a Western-style cuisine found in Hong Kong, as related culinary styles.

What does the term "Haipai" signify in the context of Shanghai cuisine?

Haipai refers to a style or school of thought, and in this context, it denotes the Western-style cuisine that is unique to Shanghai, characterized by its fusion of local and foreign influences.

What historical period saw the rise of Western restaurants in Shanghai?

Western restaurants began to set up in Shanghai after the city opened to foreign traders, indicating a period of increasing Western cultural influence.

What does the name "luosong tang" literally translate to?

The name "luosong tang" literally translates to "Russian soup."

What was the significance of "Little Russia" in Shanghai's history?

"Little Russia" was an area in Shanghai, particularly along Xiafei Road, where a large number of Russian emigres settled after the 1917 October Revolution, establishing numerous Russian restaurants and contributing to the development of Haipai cuisine.

How did the economic reforms in China after 1978 affect the culinary landscape of Shanghai?

The economic reforms led to an increase in authentic Western restaurants in Shanghai, which in turn caused a decline in the number of traditional Haipai restaurants.

What role did local ingredients play in the evolution of Haipai cuisine during periods of scarcity?

During times when imported Western ingredients were scarce, Haipai cuisine adapted by incorporating local ingredients like Chinese mitten crabs and crushed soda crackers, creating unique variations of traditional dishes.

What is the significance of Worcestershire sauce in Shanghai-style fried pork chops?

Worcestershire sauce, or its localized version la jiangyou, is a key accompaniment to Shanghai-style fried pork chops, adding a distinct flavor profile to the dish.

How did the climate of Shanghai influence the adaptation of borscht?

Shanghai's climate was not conducive to growing beets, which are a traditional ingredient in Russian borscht. This led to the substitution of tomato paste for beets in the Shanghai version.

What is the primary characteristic that distinguishes Haipai cuisine from traditional Chinese cuisine?

The primary characteristic distinguishing Haipai cuisine is its foundation in Western-style cooking, adapted with Chinese ingredients and flavors, rather than being based on traditional Chinese culinary techniques and ingredients.

What did the term "Western dishes" refer to in the historical context of Shanghai?

In historical Shanghai, "Western dishes" referred to food prepared in the Western style, often served in establishments known as Western restaurants.

What was the impact of the public-private joint management system on Shanghai's Western restaurants after 1949?

This management system led to the consolidation and reduction of Western-style restaurants, with only 18 remaining in the Huangpu District under this new operational model.

What is the relationship between Haipai cuisine and other regional Chinese cuisines?

Haipai cuisine absorbs traditions from various Chinese regional cuisines, integrating them with Western culinary techniques and adapting them to Shanghai's local tastes and ingredients.

Besides borscht, fried pork chops, and potato salad, what other dishes are mentioned as popular Haipai items?

Other popular dishes within Haipai cuisine include baked clams, baked crabs, and jin bi duo soup, which is also known as "million dollar soup."

Haipai Cuisine Wiki: Haipai Cuisine: Shanghai's Culinary Crossroads

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

What is Haipai Cuisine?

Shanghai's Western Influence

Haipai cuisine (海派西餐, hǎipài xīcān) represents a distinct Western-style culinary tradition unique to Shanghai, China.^[1] It is characterized by its absorption and adaptation of culinary traditions from various regions within China and globally, particularly from Western cooking.^[2] This fusion cuisine meticulously adjusts established recipes to suit the local palate and the specific characteristics of ingredients available in the Shanghai region.

Diverse European Roots

The Haipai style encompasses influences from several European culinary traditions, including French, Italian, Russian, British, and German.^[1]^[2] Among these, Russian-influenced dishes, such as the Shanghai-style borscht (罗宋汤, luó sòng tāng), historically garnered significant popularity due to their relative affordability and palatable adaptation to local tastes.^[3]

Signature Flavors

Today, iconic Haipai dishes include the aforementioned luó sòng tāng, fried pork chops (a local take on breaded cutlets), and Shanghai salad, which is a distinct variation of the Olivier salad.^[4] Other popular items contributing to Haipai's reputation include baked clams, baked crabs, and the rich "million dollar soup" (jin bi duo soup).

Historical Evolution

Early Western Encounters

Following Shanghai's opening to international trade, Western culture, including its cuisine, began to permeate the city. Early Western restaurants, such as Xiang Fan on Fuzhou Road, introduced "Fan dishes" (foreign dishes). However, initial adaptations were necessary as Chinese diners found certain Western preparations, like medium-rare beefsteak, challenging to accept. This led to the absorption of various Western culinary essences, resulting in distinct French, Italian, Russian, British, and German styles tailored for the local market.^[3]

The Russian Wave

The October Revolution in 1917 led to a significant influx of Russian white émigrés into Shanghai, establishing numerous restaurants, particularly along Xiafei Road (now Middle Huaihai Road), creating an area known as "Little Russia." Their borscht and buttered bread became immensely popular due to their affordability and palatable nature.^[3] By 1937, Shanghai boasted over 200 Haipai restaurants, many concentrated in these key areas.

Post-Revolutionary Shifts

The establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949 marked a turning point. Many Western restaurants closed, and those remaining, like the Red House (renamed Red Flag Restaurant), shifted towards offering Chinese traditional dishes. During periods of supply shortages, Haipai chefs ingeniously substituted imported ingredients with local alternatives, such as using Chinese mitten crabs instead of sea crabs and crushed soda crackers for bread crumbs.^[6] Western food was largely removed during the Cultural Revolution.^[7]

Modern Decline and Nostalgia

Following China's reform and opening-up policies, Shanghai saw a dramatic increase in authentic Chinese restaurants. Conversely, the number of Haipai restaurants gradually declined, with many closing in the 1990s due to the rise of genuine international establishments.^[4] Despite this decline, dishes like luó sòng tāng and fried pork chops with Worcestershire sauce remain cherished as evocative flavors of "old Shanghai."^[4]

Signature Dishes

Shanghai-Style Borscht

The Shanghai variation of borscht, known as luó sòng tāng (罗宋汤, literally 'Russian soup'), significantly diverges from its Russian progenitor. Originating in Harbin and spreading to Shanghai, this version omits beetroot, utilizing tomato paste for color and a sweet-sour profile palatable to local tastes.^[8] The soup achieves thickness using flour instead of cream. Common ingredients include beef broth, potatoes, and leafy vegetables, sometimes enhanced with Chinese sausage (Hongchang) and Worcestershire sauce. It is traditionally served with rice.^[9]

Fried Pork Chops

This Haipai staple is a local adaptation of the breaded cutlet, often enjoyed as street food. The pork is tenderized by beating, coated in breadcrumbs (historically, crushed soda crackers were used for a unique flavor during times of scarcity)^[6], and fried to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior. It is typically served with là jiàngyóu (辣酱油), a localized version of Worcestershire sauce.^[11]

Shanghai Potato Salad

Known locally as Shanghai-style salad, this dish is a derivative of the Russian Olivier salad. It features a mix of shredded boiled potatoes, diced sausage, minced turnips, and peas, bound together with salad dressing. While modern preparations often use ready-made dressing, traditional recipes involved meticulously mixing egg yolks, mayonnaise, and salad oil to create the dressing from scratch.^[12]

Related Cuisines

Yōshoku

In Japan, Yōshoku represents a similar phenomenon of Western cuisine adapted to Japanese tastes and ingredients. Dishes like Tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet) and Hayashi Rice share conceptual similarities with Haipai adaptations.

Cha Chaan Teng

Hong Kong's Cha chaan teng culture also exemplifies a unique fusion, blending British colonial influences with Cantonese culinary traditions to create a distinctively local fast-food style.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Haipai Cuisine" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about haipai_cuisine while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

satellite state

saint-germain l auxerrois

pederasty in ancient greece

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Haipai cuisine Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional culinary or cultural advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding culinary arts, history, or cultural practices. Always consult with experts or refer to primary sources for definitive information.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Haipai Cuisine: Shanghai's Culinary Crossroads

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

What is Haipai Cuisine? ℹ️

🇨🇳 Shanghai's Western Influence

🌍 Diverse European Roots

🍽️ Signature Flavors

Historical Evolution 📜

🏛️ Early Western Encounters

🇷🇺 The Russian Wave

🇨🇳 Post-Revolutionary Shifts

📈 Modern Decline and Nostalgia

Signature Dishes 🍲

🥣 Shanghai-Style Borscht

🍖 Fried Pork Chops

🥔 Shanghai Potato Salad

Related Cuisines 🔗

🇯🇵 Yōshoku

🇭🇰 Cha Chaan Teng

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is Haipai Cuisine?

Shanghai's Western Influence

Diverse European Roots

Signature Flavors

Historical Evolution

Early Western Encounters

The Russian Wave

Post-Revolutionary Shifts

Modern Decline and Nostalgia

Signature Dishes

Shanghai-Style Borscht

Fried Pork Chops

Shanghai Potato Salad

Related Cuisines

Yōshoku

Cha Chaan Teng

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice