Eating in China
Tianjin Lingjiao Soup (Beef Wontons)

Tianjin Lingjiao Soup (Beef Wontons)

菱角汤Língjiǎo tāng

A Tianjin breakfast soup of thin wheat wrappers filled with beef. Lingjiao refers to their pointed, water-caltrop-like shape, not a soup of water caltrops.

Heat
Region
Tianjin
Type
Order in Chinese

At the table

How to enjoy it

Use a spoon for the hot soup and dumplings. A beef-filled shaobing can be ordered alongside for a larger breakfast; it is not automatically included.

A useful check

Contains wheat and beef. Egg, dried shrimp, sesame oil and broth ingredients vary; ask about them. The local association with Hui cooking does not certify every seller.

How it may vary

Chicken broth or beef/lamb-bone broth may be used. Laver, egg and dried shrimp are common additions rather than a single fixed garnish set.

GET TO KNOW THE DISH

What goes into it?

Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.

Chicken broth or beef/lamb-bone broth may be used. Laver, egg and dried shrimp are common additions rather than a single fixed garnish set.

Recipes vary by restaurant.

How does it taste?

Savory broth and beef, with optional pepper and sea flavors.

Chili heat
Texture
Slippery thin wrappers around tender meat.
How it’s made
Wrap seasoned minced beef in thin wheat skins and boil in broth; egg ribbons and other toppings vary.

Chicken broth or beef/lamb-bone broth may be used. Laver, egg and dried shrimp are common additions rather than a single fixed garnish set.

A CONNECTION TO PLACE

Origin & regional roots

Explore regional food

Associated with Tianjin.

About this regional connection

Tianjin: Supported local food association, not exclusive origin.

Ask if they have it first

ASK IF IT'S AVAILABLE

请问你们有菱角汤吗?

Do you have this item?

A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ

Story & history

A pointed name for a breakfast soup

Tianjin's lingjiao soup belongs to the city's breakfast tradition and is associated with Hui food shops. Its name describes the folded dumplings' shape; the familiar bowl combines meat-filled wheat skins and hot broth.

EATING IN CHINA · THE APP

Get the app

Discover local dishes, understand their ingredients and flavours, and choose what you’d like to try. Explore vegetarian, vegan and kid-friendly food ideas for your China trip.

Food guides, ingredients and trip planning are free.

See what’s in the app