Formula E drivers and team members learn to make xiaolongbao at Nanxiang Old Street in Jiading district, Shanghai, on July 2. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]
Formula E World Championship drivers and team members visited Nanxiang Old Street in Shanghai's Jiading district on July 2, ahead of the Shanghai race weekend, to experience local culture and make Nanxiang xiaolongbao, or bite-sized soup dumplings.
The group toured the historic water town, visited the Twin Pagodas, and learned about the history of Nanxiang xiaolongbao. The delicacy dates back to 1871, and its traditional preparation technique was added to China's national intangible cultural heritage list in 2014.
At the Nanxiang Xiaolongbao Experience Center, local artisans taught the visitors how to knead dough, roll wrappers, and wrap the dumplings. Many found it difficult to make the signature 18 pleats.
Barbadian driver Zane Maloney of the Lola Yamaha ABT Formula E Team said he enjoys learning about Chinese culture.
"China is very far away from where I'm from. It's always nice to see different cultures around the world," he said.
Maloney, who arrived in Shanghai on June 26, said he had time to try different local restaurants and found the city welcoming. He also praised the convenience of using local apps to get around.
Formula E senior event experience manager Natalie Hettle said it was her first time making and tasting Nanxiang xiaolongbao.
"The dumplings are very succulent, and they taste amazing with vinegar," she said. "Formula E has given me the chance to explore more of Shanghai."
A Formula E driver tries his hand at making soup dumplings in Shanghai. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]
Formula E World Championship drivers and team members get a taste of Nanxiang xiaolongbao. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]