Zhejiang cuisine, or Zhe, is one of China's most renowned culinary traditions. Hangzhou has always been known for its elaborate stews, braised dishes, fried foods, and roasts. Seafood dishes such as oysters and freshwater squid are especially popular, with the latter found along the wide courses of the river.
There are various legends surrounding this dish. One says that in the 18th century, Emperor Qianlong traveled to West Lake in Hangzhou incognito. During his visit, he dined at a local restaurant and ordered a shrimp dish.
However, the waiter recognized him. Nervous, he accidentally added green tea leaves instead of onions while preparing the shrimp, since green tea was very popular in that region. The emperor was very pleased and considered that this dish was fit for an emperor.
This delicious dish is very easy to prepare. It involves making an infusion of Longjing green tea—preferably from the Hangzhou area, as it is considered the best in all of China.
The shrimp are quickly fried in a wok, then cooked with the famous huang jiu rice wine, and finally, the Longjing tea leaves are added along with a little of the tea infusion.
