Chengdu is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy and the heartland of Sichuan cuisine, globally renowned for its bold, complex, and fiery "ma la" flavor profile, which combines the intense heat of chili peppers with the unique numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns. The city's most iconic dish is Sichuan Hotpot, a communal dining experience where various meats and vegetables are poached in a bubbling, spicy broth. Other world-famous specialties include Mapo Tofu (silky bean curd in a spicy meat sauce), Kung Pao Chicken (stir-fried chicken with peanuts and chilies), and Dan Dan Noodles (spicy, nutty noodles topped with minced pork). Chengdu is also celebrated for its vibrant street food and snack culture, featuring unique delicacies such as "Husband and Wife Lung Slices" (Fuqi Feipian), savory Zhong Dumplings, sweet Sandapao rice balls, and the adventurous roasted rabbit head. Beyond the spice, the cuisine emphasizes a balance of 24 base flavors, including sweet, sour, and aromatic, exemplified by traditional dishes like Tea-Smoked Duck and nourishing pig feet soup.