Pelodiscus sinensis — Chinese freshwater turtle, soft outer shell, gelatinous meat.
Where it comes from
Farmed throughout China and East Asia; banquet ingredient since the Tang dynasty.
In the kitchen
Slow-stewed with ham (Anhui specialty) or in clear broth; the gelatin gives the soup its body.
Across cuisines
Soft-shell turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis, is a Chinese freshwater turtle known for its soft outer shell and gelatinous meat. It has been a banquet ingredient since the Tang dynasty, prized for its texture and flavor. It is farmed throughout China and East Asia for culinary use.
