Hello, my name is Shunyi “Sunny” Xiang. I was born and raised in Zhangjiajie, a mountainous region in China’s Hunan Province known for its towering sandstone peaks, lush forests, and dramatic natural beauty. The region is also home to many ethnic groups, each contributing to its rich cultural traditions. I am a member of the Tujia, an ethnic minority group with a deep cultural and culinary heritage.

The Tujia people have experienced thousands of years of change, but our food traditions have remained a constant part of our culture. Tujia cuisine holds a special place in my heart, as do some of my favorite dishes, including baozi, shrimp noodles, and wonton noodles. Although our cuisine can be spicy, its flavors are carefully balanced.

Zhangjiajie cuisine is famous throughout China, although I did not fully realize this until later in life, when I moved to Guangdong and discovered restaurants serving food from my hometown. People from across China have moved to Guangdong for work, bringing their culinary traditions with them and creating a rich blend of cultures and cooking styles.

I learned to cook from my grandmother, my mother, and my aunts. Through my cooking, I look forward to sharing the food, traditions, and flavors of the Tujia people with you.