Black River Fish

Black River Fish

　　 "Black River Fish" is a historic and distinctive culinary brand from Wulong Town in Zunyi, beloved all year round and renowned far and wide. "Black River Fish" is made using genuine wild fish (specifically carp from the river), carefully seasoned with Zunyi’s famous “facing-heaven” chili peppers, and cooked in a hot pot style. The result is a deliciously fresh and spicy dish that has attracted countless visitors. The rows of hot pot restaurants lining Wulong Town’s streets, the waitresses standing roadside to beckon passing drivers, and their soft local accents have also become a scenic sight along the way into downtown Zunyi.

　　The Historical Anecdotes of Black River Fish

　　The world may know about the Black River largely due to the Red Army’s “crossing of the treacherous Black River.” Yet this major river, originating in Guizhou and flowing through Sichuan into the Yangtze, is perhaps most famous for its fish. Since ancient times, people living along the banks have developed a unique way of preparing Black River Fish, which they often caught and ate: slicing the fish and marinating it with cooking oil, chili peppers, ginger, garlic, and other seasonings to bring out its fresh, fragrant, tender, and smooth qualities. For a time, Black River Fish became extremely popular. Black River Live Fish is an establishment specializing in fish dishes, offering a variety of flavors (such as sour soup, clear broth, mildly spicy, medium spicy, and extra numbing spicy) thanks to the use of multiple fish species—making it very popular among customers. Its taste is authentic and genuine, with the fish being slaughtered and sliced right in front of diners. The finished dish is known for being “smooth, tender, fresh, and fragrant.” There’s a particular technique to cooking Black River catfish: it must be braised together with locally made tofu coagulated with brine. This doesn’t mask the flavor of the fish but instead enhances its freshness. As for the reason why, even the chefs can’t quite explain—but this method has been passed down through generations and remains widely loved to this day.

　　The “open-air restaurant” offers an immensely expansive view. Gazing into the distance, you’ll see undulating mountain ranges and overlapping peaks. The crystal-clear Black River flows mightily eastward, while white clouds drift across the azure blue sky, and a fresh, mild mountain breeze gently brushes your face. The majestic bridge soaring overhead is a spectacular sight... Amidst your journey in a foreign land, your eyes feast on the magnificent natural scenery, while your mouth enjoys the long-renowned local delicacies—both a treat for the eyes and the palate, a delightful two-in-one experience. Its taste, ambiance, and overall charm far surpass the traditional eight-dish, eight-bowl banquets served in luxury hotel private rooms. Truly, beautiful scenery and delicious food intoxicate the traveler, “laughing in the spring breeze by the hot pot.”

　　The cooking method of Black River Fish has a long history, and you can also sense the charm of these distinctive delicacies during the preparation process. Black River Fish is a unique and notable snack from Zunyi. It primarily uses carp and grass carp as main ingredients, and is mainly prepared through boiling. Its flavor profile is aromatic and spicy. Join in and try it yourself—it comes from Wulong Town within Zunyi City.