Nov 2013

Conquering Fears: Last Call for Rabbit Heads at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

"Cheng Du Famous Snacks" at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

I’m not at all squeamish when it comes to consuming unloved odds and ends, but it took some hardcore mental preparation to indulge in Chengdu’s beloved ma la rabbit head.

I chickened out at every opportunity to try this local delicacy up until the last possible moment, while waiting for our departing flight at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport. Last call…

"Cheng Du Famous Snacks" at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

The Astronomer and I arrived at the airport with time to spare before catching our early flight to Hangzhou. After exploring the airport’s various breakfast options, we settled on Cheng Du Ming Xiao Chi, a spot specializing in “Cheng Du Famous Snacks.”

I ordered a bowl of dan dan mian, of course. It was a solid rendition, but unavoidably bittersweet.

"Cheng Du Famous Snacks" at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

While slurping my last serving of dan dan mian on Sichuan soil, I perused a picture menu set on the table and saw that rabbit heads were offered here.

After much self-coaxing and reassurances by The Astronomer that he would “help” me eat the thing, I walked up to the cash register to place a second order.

"Cheng Du Famous Snacks" at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

In addition to the rabbit head, I also desired a bowl of tian shui mian. The “sweet water noodles,” thick wheat ropes dressed with bean and sesame pastes, soy sauce, salt, chili, and sesame seeds, were awesomely toothsome and balanced on the ma la front.

"Cheng Du Famous Snacks" at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

And then came the moment to conquer my bucktoothed fear. It must be stated that Fuchsia Dunlop, the goddess of Sichuan cuisine, was only able to stomach her first rabbit head while under the influence of alcohol. I felt brave going for gold before 8 AM.

"Cheng Du Famous Snacks" at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

A bird’s eye-view of the rabbit head, lightly blanched and coated in chili oil. I’m not sure if it’s common practice to serve this dish with gloves, but I appreciated the thoughtfulness at this hour and in this setting.

Me vs. Ma La Rabbit Head

I began by nibbling away at the cheeks, which were surprisingly plentiful, followed by an eyeball, then two. I grew braver with each bite, breaking away bits of bone to reveal tender, edible morsels.

"Cheng Du Famous Snacks" at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

Eventually, I made my way to the rabbit’s brain. Without thinking too much about it, I plopped the noggin into my mouth. It had an unctuous, foie gras-like quality that I wasn’t expecting but quite enjoyed. It was the most delicious part of the rabbit’s head.

"Cheng Du Famous Snacks" at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

From cheeks to eyeballs and brains, no bones about it, ma la rabbit head was an excellent adventure from start to finish. I hate regrets, especially edible ones, so thank goodness I mustered up the strength at the eleventh hour. It would’ve been a pity to leave Sichuan without sampling one of its most intriguing and misunderstood offerings.

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport
2nd Floor, Domestic Terminal Foodcourt

Until next time, dear, sweet China…

Beijing

Chengdu

Hong Kong

Kunming

Shanghai

Xi’an

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6 thoughts on “Conquering Fears: Last Call for Rabbit Heads at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

  1. I may never come back here! 🙂

    PS You’re in my daily food blog rotation. I just need to read the headlines first.

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