When people ask about “authentic” chenpi, many think of Guangdong Pubei. In practice, chenpi is produced in multiple regions across China. Below is a brief overview of common production areas.
1. Fujian
Fujian is one of the major production areas, with Fuzhou chenpi being relatively well known. Produced in and around Fuzhou, it is commonly described as having a thick peel, thin pith, strong aroma, and good toughness, with a long history of production.
2. Guangdong
Guangdong is another major production area, with Chaozhou chenpi being relatively well known. Produced in and around Chaozhou, it is commonly described as yellow-brown in color, thin in peel, and aromatic, with a long production history.
3. Yunnan
Yunnan is a major production area, with Dali chenpi being relatively well known. Produced in and around Dali, it is commonly described as dark yellow in color, thicker flesh and thinner peel, and a strong aroma, with a long production history.
4. Sichuan
Sichuan is a major production area, with Chengdu chenpi being relatively well known. Produced in and around Chengdu, it is commonly described as thin in peel, thick in flesh, and aromatic, with a distinctive texture and long production history.
