Nothing says “good times” in China like gathering friends for smoky, spicy, and utterly delicious BBQ, or 烧烤 (Shāokǎo) in Chinese! More than just food, it’s a social ritual loved from buzzing city streets to cozy backyard hangouts. Ready to talk, eat, and learn Chinese like a local? Let’s dive in!![]() Must-Try BBQ Foods 羊肉串 (Yángròu chuàn): Tender lamb skewers — the #1 classic! 鸡翅 (Jīchì): Juicy chicken wings brushed with 蜂蜜 (Fēngmì) honey or spicy sauce. 烤玉米 (Kǎo yùmǐ): Grilled corn, sweet and smoky. 韭菜 (Jiǔcài): "Grilled garlic chives" — a veggie favorite! 土豆片 (Tǔdòu piàn): Thinly sliced potatoes, crispy outside, soft inside. Key BBQ Actions 烤 (Kǎo): "To grill" — Keep turning for perfect char! 翻面 (Fān miàn): "Flip it over" (so it cooks evenly). 刷油 (Shuā yóu): "Brush oil" to keep things juicy. 撒孜然 (Sǎ zīrán): "Sprinkle cumin" — the magic spice! 加辣 (Jiā là): "Add spice" if you dare (say "微辣" Wēi là for "mild"!). Pro Tips for the Perfect BBQ 炭火 (Tànhuǒ): "Charcoal fire" beats gas for authentic flavor! 耐心 (Nàixīn): "Patience" — don’t rush the grill! 干杯 (Gānbēi!): "Cheers!" with icy 啤酒 (Píjiǔ) to balance the heat. Mastering food vocabulary makes ordering fun and connects you to Chinese life. Next time you’re at a 烧烤摊 (Shāokǎo tān) "BBQ stall", try: “老板,再来五串羊肉串,加辣!” (Lǎobǎn, zài lái wǔ chuàn yángròu chuàn, jiā là) - “Boss, five more lamb skewers, spicy please!” |