A Taste of Nanjing is a collection of short essays depicting signature
Chinese dishes, shining a spotlight on the author's enjoyment of local
food in his youth and childhood.
Characterized by witty observations and personal research on the origin
and spread of various delicacies, A Taste of Nanjing offers the sort
of rigorous analysis and unique humor that are typical of a Chinese
intellectual. The enthusiasm for life and Chinese philosophy that is
inherent in both the nature of food (warming or cooling) and the purpose
of eating (for nutrition or pleasure) shines through in Yu's casual and
highly readable narrative style. From main dishes such as pig trotters,
eels, and crabs, to snacks like honey mito, grease balls, and bursting
parched rice, he brings Nanjing cuisine to life with a healthy dose of
Chinese wisdom.