At the table
Take small portions with a spoon or chopsticks and let the thickened sauce cool. The soft cabbage and pork can be served over rice; check the length of pieces before sharing.
Contains pork. Broth, starch and seasonings vary, so check the full recipe for allergies or dietary restrictions. The thickened sauce can stay hot.
The pork strips and very soft cabbage in a smooth sauce are easy to serve in small portions with rice; allow it to cool.
Recipes vary. Ask the restaurant about ingredients and serving before you order.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
The balance of cabbage and pork and the thickness of the sauce vary. Cooking wine and a little sugar can season the dish.
Typical ingredients
In some versions
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Mildly savory, with the sweetness of softened cabbage.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Soft cabbage and smooth pork strips in a glossy thickened sauce.
- How it’s made
- Stir-fry starch-coated pork briefly, soften shredded cabbage with a little water, then combine and thicken the sauce.
The balance of cabbage and pork and the thickness of the sauce vary. Cooking wine and a little sugar can season the dish.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Shanghai.
About this regional connection
Shanghai: Associated with Shanghai Benbang cooking.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有烂糊肉丝吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
Soft cabbage is the point
Lanhu rousi is a Shanghai home-style dish whose name points to its soft, thickened texture. Napa cabbage is braised until its stems soften and its natural sweetness comes through. Fine pork strips are cooked separately, then returned to the cabbage before a little starch slurry brings the dish together. The pale, glossy result is meant to be soft rather than crisp, and is often served with rice or noodles.