Donald Trump, known for his love of fast food, will be served a rather different menu during his state visit to China. A lavish dinner has been prepared for both US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, featuring cuisine from the Huaiyang region. This culinary tradition is renowned for its light seasoning and balanced flavours, making it a preferred choice for major political events and banquets. According to Reuters, the food is particularly suitable because it avoids heavy spices and strong flavours, which contrasts with Trump's well-documented preference for fast food.
Huaiyang Cuisine Highlights
Some of the most iconic Huaiyang dishes include Lion's head pork meatballs, made with ground pork, water chestnuts, and breadcrumbs. Another popular option is Yangzhou fried rice, similar to egg fried rice but mixed with pork and shrimp. A visually striking dish that may be served is squirrel fish, which does not actually contain squirrel. Instead, a whole fish is carved and deep-fried to resemble the furry animal. During Trump's previous state visit to China, he was also served Huaiyang dishes, including braised vegetables and stewed beef in tomato sauce.
Trump's Food Preferences
Last year, Trump's favourite foods were revealed by Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt during a 'Take Your Children to Work Day' event. She stated that the President loves steak. When a child asked about Trump's well-known fondness for McDonald's, Leavitt responded that he enjoys McDonald's hamburgers and French fries. As for sweets, Trump reportedly eats a 'good amount of candy', with a preference for pink Starburst and Tootsie Rolls.
Political Context of the Visit
Earlier in the state visit, Xi issued what appeared to be a thinly veiled warning to Trump during the US leader's trip to Beijing. Trump opened talks by telling Xi it was an 'honour' to be his friend, while Xi offered a cautionary note about the risks of confrontation between the two nations. 'China and the United States both stand to gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation,' Xi said. 'We should be partners, not rivals. We should help each other succeed and prosper together and find the right way for major countries to get along well with each other in the new era.'
