Some dishes. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

The Grand Canal Culinary Contest, an event commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Grand Canal's UNESCO World Heritage status, took place in Linping on June 18.

Representatives from ancient towns along the canal showcased their culinary skills, using food as a medium to promote cultural exchange.

Contestants expertly prepared dishes, with the aroma of fresh grass carp and rich seasonings filling the air. Each slice, stir, steam, and boil demonstrated their deep culinary expertise and precision.

The second round featured "Grand Canal Culture" dishes, where contestants used six specified ingredients to creatively incorporate elements of canal culture into their culinary creations, reflecting the canal's charm and atmosphere.

Judges included seasoned culinary experts and enthusiastic food-loving audience members, who evaluated the dishes based on taste, texture, presentation, cultural relevance, and overall appeal.

The contest attracted 30 teams from eight provinces and cities, including Beijing, Tianjin, and Jiangsu. Contestants' dishes highlighted canal culture and traditional features of ancient towns. In the exhibition area, local Linping specialties like Fagen pastries and Huichang rice dumplings attracted much attention from audiences.

Some dishes. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]