The history of Qiqihar grilled meat (齐齐哈尔烤肉) dates back over 10,000 years, with early settlers in the Nenjiang River basin already practicing the art of roasting food. During the Bronze and Iron Ages, grilling became the primary method of cooking meat for these people. Over time, this barbecue culture evolved into the unique grilled meat tradition of Qiqihar, making it one of the city’s most iconic dishes. Today, Qiqihar grilled meat has been recognized as an intangible cultural heritage and is a proud symbol of the city, rich in history and cultural significance.
Main Ingredients and Cooking Methods
Main Ingredients:
- Beef: The star ingredient of Qiqihar grilled meat is beef, with premium cuts such as ribeye, flank, sirloin, shoulder, and rump being the most popular choices. These cuts are tender and well-marbled, making them ideal for grilling.
- Vegetables: Sauerkraut is a key side dish in Qiqihar grilled meat, offering a tangy, refreshing contrast to the richness of the beef. Other vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, onions, and leafy greens are also grilled, becoming soft, sweet, and flavorful.
- Seafood and Mushrooms: Seafood like clams and squid, along with mushrooms such as shiitake and enoki, are also commonly grilled alongside the meat, adding more texture and depth to the dish.
Cooking Methods:
- Marinating: The selected beef is thinly sliced and marinated with ingredients like soybean oil, five-spice powder, salt, and MSG for 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the meat to absorb the flavors and become more tender.
- Mixing: After marinating, vegetables like onions and coriander are mixed into the beef, along with seasonings such as cumin, sesame seeds, and chili powder, to enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- Grilling: The beef is then grilled over charcoal, spread evenly on the grill to avoid overlapping. It is grilled until both sides are browned, slightly crispy, and cooked to about 90% doneness, creating a perfect balance of tenderness and char.
Taste and Flavor
Qiqihar grilled meat is known for its rich taste and distinctive flavor. The grilled beef is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, delivering a delightful flavor with every bite. The combination of fresh vegetables, seafood, and mushrooms adds layers of texture, complementing the savory meat. The unique seasoning blends used in Qiqihar grilled meat are key to its signature taste, with each restaurant or vendor often having its own special recipe, making every dish slightly different. The balance of spices and flavors enhances the overall experience, making Qiqihar grilled meat a must-try for anyone visiting the region.
