Harbin, the capital of Heilongjiang Province in northeastern China, is famous for its unique culinary traditions. The city’s food culture reflects its history, climate, and multicultural influences. Whether you're a traveler planning a visit or a food enthusiast eager to learn, knowing the English terms for Harbin’s signature dishes will enhance your experience.

Harbin’s Must-Try Dishes and Their English Names

Harbin Smoked Sausage (哈尔滨红肠 - Hā'ěrbīn Hóngcháng)

A staple in Harbin’s cuisine, this smoked sausage has a distinctive garlic flavor and a slightly smoky taste. Locals often enjoy it sliced as a snack or paired with bread.

Key Vocabulary:

• Smoked sausage – 烟熏香肠
• Garlic-flavored – 蒜香味
• Cured meat – 腌肉

Russian Borscht (罗宋汤 - Luósòng Tāng)

Due to Harbin’s historical Russian influence, borscht is a beloved dish here. Unlike the original Ukrainian version, Harbin’s borscht often includes tomatoes, beef, and cabbage, creating a rich, tangy soup.

Key Vocabulary:

• Beet soup – 甜菜根汤 (traditional borscht)
• Tomato-based broth – 番茄汤底
• Sour cream – 酸奶油

Guo Bao Rou (锅包肉 - Guō Bāo Ròu)

This crispy sweet-and-sour pork dish is a Harbin specialty. The meat is deep-fried, then coated in a sticky sauce made with sugar and vinegar.

Key Vocabulary:

• Sweet and sour pork – 糖醋里脊
• Crispy fried meat – 酥炸肉
• Vinegar sauce – 醋汁

Harbin Beer (哈尔滨啤酒 - Hā'ěrbīn Píjiǔ)

As one of China’s oldest breweries, Harbin Beer is a must-try. Its crisp, refreshing taste pairs perfectly with local dishes.

Key Vocabulary:

• Lager – 拉格啤酒
• Brewery – 啤酒厂
• Malt flavor – 麦芽风味

Da Lie Ba (大列巴 - Dà Liè Bā)

This large, dense Russian-style sourdough bread is a Harbin classic. It has a slightly sour taste and is often eaten with jam or butter.

Key Vocabulary:

• Sourdough bread – 酸面包
• Rye bread – 黑麦面包
• Crusty loaf – 硬皮面包

Stewed Pork with Vermicelli (猪肉炖粉条 - Zhūròu Dùn Fěntiáo)

A hearty winter dish, this combines tender pork, chewy vermicelli, and a savory broth. It’s a comforting meal in Harbin’s cold climate.

Key Vocabulary:

• Braised pork – 红烧猪肉
• Glass noodles – 粉丝
• Savory stew – 咸香炖菜

Fish Dumplings (鱼馅饺子 - Yú Xiàn Jiǎozi)

Harbin’s proximity to rivers means fresh fish is often used in dumplings. These delicate dumplings have a light, flavorful filling.

Key Vocabulary:

• Fish filling – 鱼肉馅
• Boiled dumplings – 水饺
• Dipping sauce – 蘸酱

Suan Cai (酸菜 - Suān Cài)

Fermented cabbage is a key ingredient in many northeastern dishes. In Harbin, it’s often used in soups or stir-fries for a tangy kick.

Key Vocabulary:

• Pickled cabbage – 腌白菜
• Fermented vegetables – 发酵蔬菜
• Sour flavor – 酸味

Ice Cream in Winter (马迭尔冰棍 - Mǎdié'ěr Bīnggùn)

Even in freezing temperatures, locals enjoy this famous ice cream from the Central Street vendor. It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and doesn’t melt quickly.

Key Vocabulary:

• Creamy ice cream – 奶油冰淇淋
• Frozen treat – 冷冻甜品
• Dairy-based dessert – 乳制品甜点

Lamb Skewers (羊肉串 - Yángròu Chuàn)

A popular street food, these skewers are seasoned with cumin and chili, then grilled over charcoal for a smoky flavor.

Key Vocabulary:

• Grilled lamb – 烤羊肉
• Cumin spice – 孜然香料
• Street food snack – 街头小吃

Why Learning These Terms Matters

Understanding the English names of Harbin’s dishes helps travelers navigate menus and appreciate the city’s food culture. For food bloggers or culinary enthusiasts, these terms make it easier to share experiences with a global audience.

Harbin’s cuisine is a blend of Chinese and Russian influences, making it unique in China’s culinary landscape. From smoky sausages to hearty stews, each dish tells a story of the city’s history and climate. Next time you visit, try ordering in English—it might just make your meal even more enjoyable.

The flavors of Harbin are waiting to be explored, and now you have the vocabulary to do it confidently. Whether you're biting into crispy Guo Bao Rou or sipping on a cold Harbin Beer, every dish offers a taste of this vibrant city.