WHAT TO EXPECT
At the table
Usually a small cold side · confirm which part is served.
Chengdu · A LOCAL TASTE
Houttuynia herb salad
涼拌折耳根
A pronounced herbal, earthy aroma; stems can be crisp. Dressing changes the balance.
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INGREDIENTS
Ingredients
Houttuynia roots, shoots or leaves; dressing and cooking method vary.
THE LOCAL LENS · CHENGDU
The bold ingredient is a plant.
Zhe’ergen is Houttuynia cordata, an aromatic herb, not seafood. Root and leaf preparations offer different textures.
Three things to know
- An aromatic plant, not an animal ingredient.
- Leaves and roots are not the same eating experience.
- Grown in Pengzhou; not exclusive to Chengdu.
Try noticing
Find out whether this portion uses leaves or roots before comparing textures.
The story behind this bite
A Chengdu connection need not be an ancient-origin claim. Reporting follows Pengzhou-grown zhe’ergen to Canada in 2026: a striking aroma for one diner can be a familiar taste someone else misses abroad. Your own reaction belongs beside that contrast.
At the counter
Ask about washing and preparation, chilli, dressing and any animal-based additions. The plant alone does not certify a vegan dish.
Research & boundaries
Editorial review ·
Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine · 药师傅讲堂｜神奇的中药之鱼腥草 ↗Supports the plant identity, distinctive aroma and Southwest culinary uses. Medicinal claims and origin legends are not adopted.
Sichuan Daily / Nanchong municipal government portal · 四川折耳根首次出口 ↗Reports cultivation in Pengzhou, Chengdu, and shipment to Canada in February 2026. Not a Chengdu-only origin or restaurant check.
Taste descriptions and tasting prompts are editorial guidance, not a report of your experience. Sources explain traditions, not this restaurant’s recipe or today’s availability.
FROM THE DISH TO THE TABLE
Places to ask about this dish
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Open bilingual ordering card →Sources and coverage
Editorial description based on the supplied catalogue and recipe notes. Source listings explain cultural inclusion, not popularity, current restaurant supply or safety. Restaurant leads have not been independently verified on site.
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