Steamed Basin Dish of Hanyang

Last updated 2026-11-10 — "Other dishes go untouched because the steamed basin is here" — this saying highlights the rich aroma and hearty flavor of the steamed basin dish, which can rival seven or eight separate plates. The steamed basin is a special dish served to honored guests in Hanyang Town, Hanyin County. Its preparation involves placing pig trotters on either side of the basin, a plump and tender chicken (or duck) in the middle, along with several sections of julienned lotus root. A small amount of water is added before the basin is placed in a pot to steam. Once the water boils, dried chili pods, whole scallion whites, salt, and a bit of flour are added, and the dish is simmered gently until thoroughly cooked. Before serving, wood ear mushrooms, glass noodles, meatballs are added, along with a sprinkle of MSG, chopped scallions, and mashed garlic, then steamed briefly before being brought to the table. Its distinctive features include an entire chicken and trotters that fall off the bone at the touch of chopsticks, a rich reddish-yellow broth, and an aroma that fills the entire dining table. It has earned the elegant nickname "Swan Diving into the Moon."