The final highlight of the Cangzhou hot pot chicken Manchu Han Imperial Feast, the legendary cold dish and dessert, is... hot pot chicken popsicles.
When the hot pot chicken popsicle appeared before everyone, it immediately shattered everyone's perception of traditional cuisine.
Qin Zian and the staff of the Harbin Culture and Tourism Bureau never imagined that the spiciness of hot pot and the coldness of popsicles could be combined so cleverly, nor did they ever imagine that this unique taste would bring them such an explosive experience.
Qin Zian managed his expression well, and no one noticed anything unusual.
But the staff from the Harbin Culture and Tourism Bureau were completely dumbfounded, wishing they could just escape from the private room.
no!!!
No one told them before they came...
This meal is a matter of life and death!
"Director Qin, please try this hot pot chicken popsicle. It's a masterpiece of Cangzhou cuisine."
Old Zhang's voice was full of pride and anticipation, as if he was already looking forward to Qin Zi'an's praise and affirmation.
Because Lao Zhang firmly believes that Qin Zi'an is on the same page as him and will definitely appreciate the artwork he creates.
For Qin Zian, this meal of Cangzhou's bizarre cuisine was undoubtedly an unforgettable experience.
He thought it was just an ordinary cultural exchange dinner, but he was unexpectedly deeply shocked by the strange and bizarre dishes.
From the sticky texture of the hot pot chicken cake to the hot pot chicken popsicle in front of him, Qin Zian thoroughly enjoyed the novel dishes of this meal.
He stared at the cold popsicle in front of him, sprinkled with chili powder and sesame seeds, and a chill ran through him.
Friendship is precious, but at this moment, Qin Zian felt that this friendship seemed somewhat heavy.
He looked at the staff of the Harbin Culture and Tourism Bureau, and saw that they were all pale-faced, clearly shocked by the dishes.
In contrast, Director Ma and other staff members of the Cangzhou Culture and Tourism Bureau were all smiles, looking expectant, as if they couldn't wait to see Qin Zi'an stuff the hot pot chicken popsicle into his mouth.
Qin Zian suddenly realized that since the start of the banquet, the staff of the Cangzhou Culture and Tourism Bureau had barely touched their food. They were enthusiastically picking up food, while he and the staff of the Bingcheng Culture and Tourism Bureau were the ones enjoying their meal.
Realizing this, Qin Zian couldn't help but smile.
We're all ancient foxes, why are you trying to play these ghost stories with me?
Qin Zian knew perfectly well that the purpose of these bizarre dishes was simply to attract tourists and increase Cangzhou's reputation.
But if they want to gain popularity through this method, they should at least experience it for themselves first.
Without further hesitation, Qin Zian handed the hot pot chicken popsicle in front of him to Director Ma.
"Director Ma, please try this hot pot chicken popsicle." Qin Zi'an smiled and handed the unusual popsicle to Director Ma.
Director Ma's expression stiffened slightly when he saw the hot pot chicken popsicle approaching him. He clearly hadn't expected Qin Zi'an to ask him to try the dish so directly.
When he saw the hot pot chicken popsicle covered with chili powder and sesame seeds, his heart couldn't help but tremble.
At first glance, this hot pot chicken popsicle is indeed both icy and stimulating, making it irresistible to try.
However, given the taste of the series of bizarre dishes that Lao Zhang had created, Director Ma had to have some reservations.
However, he quickly reverted to his signature smile and tried to decline with warm words.
"Director Qin, what you're saying..." Director Ma paused, then said warmly, "We are all locals from Cangzhou, and we can enjoy this kind of food anytime. Actually, this was specially prepared by the chefs for you distinguished guests who have come from afar."
Even though Director Ma had put it that way, Qin Zi'an was not swayed by his words.
He shook his head slightly, a playful smile playing on his lips.
"Director Ma, you're wrong about that!" Qin Zi'an paused, then spoke with a firm tone, "Whether it's Cangzhou or Bingcheng, we are all members of the Chinese family, a loving family. Since we're family, we should share joys and sorrows, and enjoy good food together."
"Yes, yes, yes!"
Director Ma quickly echoed this, but his heart was filled with fear.
Despite how friendly Qin Zian's words sounded, he actually made sure he had to eat that hot pot chicken popsicle.
Director Ma's enthusiasm for Qin Zi'an and the Harbin Culture and Tourism Bureau is beyond doubt, and he sincerely hopes that every tourist can leave with wonderful memories in Cangzhou.
But faced with these bizarre and unusual dishes, Director Ma felt conflicted and struggled.
He clearly remembers the feeling of trying Lao Zhang's "dark cuisine" for the first time; the unique texture and taste still leave a deep impression on him to this day.
The dishes were indeed very creative and refreshing, but there was more of an indescribable awkwardness about them.
Director Ma wasn't questioning the chefs' creativity or skills; he simply felt that the dishes weren't suitable for everyone's taste.
Honestly, Director Ma understands that while these unusual dishes may attract tourists, they don't truly represent Cangzhou's culinary culture.
He understood that his responsibility was not only to let tourists feel the warmth and hospitality of Cangzhou, but also to let them taste the real delicacies.
However, it cannot be denied that the dishes developed by Lao Zhang are a great gimmick to attract tourists.
So, with a try-it-and-see attitude, Director Ma put Lao Zhang's creative cuisine on the cultural and tourism information of Cangzhou.
He just wanted to test the waters, but who would have thought that Qin Zian would actually take a liking to him?
Therefore, tonight's feast has come about.
Director Ma saw that Qin Zi'an and the staff of the Harbin Culture and Tourism Bureau were enjoying their meal so much, and he showed them respect and understanding.
But now, Qin Zi'an wants him to taste this hot pot chicken popsicle...
Director Ma really couldn't stand it.
The sticky texture of that hot pot chicken cake still lingers in Director Ma's mind; he still feels nauseous just thinking about it.
He hasn't recovered yet, so how could he possibly enjoy hot pot chicken popsicles again?
"Director Ma, if I finish this hot pot chicken popsicle, I'll believe in your enthusiasm for our Ice City."
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