What are Chinese Preserved Meat & Sausages?

Traditional Chinese preserved meat, called Lap Mei in Cantonese, holds a significant place in Hong Kong's culinary culture.

The art of making preserved meat in Hong Kong involves skilled craftsmanship. The meat is marinated with a combination of aromatic spices, soy sauce, sugar, and sometimes Chinese wine, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. The meat is then air-dried, smoked, or cured using traditional methods, requiring precision and experience. Hong Kong famous manufacturers even promote their products to be “Made in Hong Kong” to ensure the products can offer authentic traditional flavours.

Preserved meat is particularly prominent during festive seasons in Hong Kong, such as the Lunar New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival, traditional in autumn and winter. Families celebrate these occasions by preparing special dishes featuring lap mei, symbolizing abundance, good luck, and familial unity.

You can find Lap Mei in dishes like clay pot rice, stir-fried dishes, and steam buns in dim sum restaurants. What is your favourite?