A Local Classic with Unexpected Depth
In the heart of Nanjing’s vibrant street food scene, duck blood vermicelli soup (鸭血粉丝汤) stands out as one of the city’s most beloved comfort foods—bold, flavorful, and deeply rooted in tradition. Often enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or as a warming snack on a rainy day, this humble-looking bowl packs layers of taste, texture, and cultural pride.
What makes this dish remarkable is not just its unique combination of ingredients, but the way it captures the spirit of Nanjing: unpretentious yet rich in heritage, earthy yet full of nuance.
Anatomy of the Bowl
The dish starts with a rich, fragrant broth made by slowly simmering duck bones, often with added ginger, scallion, white pepper, and star anise to deepen the flavor. Into this golden, umami-filled soup go soft, transparent sweet potato vermicelli, prized for their bouncy texture and ability to soak up every note of the broth.
But the heart of this dish lies in its signature toppings: duck blood (delicately set into silky, tofu-like cubes), tender duck gizzards, duck liver, and thinly sliced duck intestines. While that may sound adventurous to some, locals consider it a celebration of the whole duck—nothing wasted, everything transformed into something delicious.
A touch of chili oil, garlic paste, pickled mustard greens, and chopped scallions complete the experience, delivering a balance of heat, tang, and brightness. Each spoonful offers a different combination: chewy, silky, crunchy, and spicy, all bathed in a broth that’s both hearty and clean.
Tradition in a Bowl
Duck blood vermicelli soup has been part of Nanjing’s culinary heritage for generations. Originally developed by resourceful cooks aiming to use every part of the duck, the dish evolved into a citywide favorite, admired for its bold flavor and satisfying warmth. Today, it represents more than just a meal—it’s a symbol of local identity and culinary ingenuity.
Locals often describe the dish as nostalgic. Many grew up eating it before school or during chilly mornings, and it remains a go-to choice for a quick, nourishing bite. For visitors, it’s an immersive and authentic way to engage with the everyday rhythm of Nanjing life.
Where to Try It: Huiwei Duck Blood Vermicelli Soup
Among the many vendors and eateries that serve this dish, Huiwei Duck Blood Vermicelli Soup (回味鸭血粉丝汤) is especially revered. With multiple branches around the city and a long-standing reputation for consistency and flavor, Huiwei delivers a version that’s both classic and accessible.
Their broth is known for being rich but not greasy, the duck blood cubes perfectly smooth, and the portion generous. They also offer different levels of spiciness, allowing guests to tailor the heat to their liking. The line often spills out the door, especially around lunchtime—a testament to the dish’s enduring popularity.
The setting is casual and bustling, making it a great spot to rub shoulders with locals and dive straight into the everyday food culture of Nanjing.
What Visitors Are Saying
Many travelers find the experience both surprising and unforgettable. First-time tasters often admit to initial hesitation over the name, but quickly fall for the depth of flavor and the comforting warmth of the soup. “I never thought duck blood could taste this good,” one diner remarked, “it’s delicate, not strong at all, and everything just works together.”
Others highlight the texture play—how the soft vermicelli contrasts with the smoothness of the duck blood and the chewiness of the offal. It’s a dish that keeps you engaged, not just through flavor but through feel.
“I came for the architecture,” another visitor shared, “but I stayed for the soup.”
A Must-Try for the Curious and the Hungry
Duck blood vermicelli soup may not be flashy, but it’s unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned street food explorer or a curious first-timer, it offers an experience that’s deeply satisfying and uniquely Nanjing.
More than just a local specialty, it’s a warm welcome from the city’s kitchens to your bowl. Take a seat, grab your chopsticks, and dive into a dish that speaks volumes—one delicious spoonful at a time.
