Known for its elegance, Huaiyang cuisine (from Huai'an and Yangzhou of Jiangsu province) is capable of meticulously transforming a seemingly modest cube of tofu into a culinary masterpiece that resembles a delicate chrysanthemum flower through 100 precise cuts made in two directions.

The artful creation, known as chrysanthemum tofu soup, combines the subtle textures of tofu with the rich flavors of matsutake mushrooms and pigeon eggs, all swimming in a clear chicken soup. It's a dish that not only pleases the palate but is also a showcase of the zenith of Chinese knife skills and culinary traditions.

It was this very dish that captivated Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and his team during a recent memorable lunch in Beijing.

Their culinary experience took place at the Shichahai branch of Huaiyangfu, a Huaiyang cuisine restaurant chain. In late March, amid the diplomatic itineraries, it was the simple elegance of chrysanthemum tofu soup that left a lasting impression, and also highlighted the cultural resonance that food can convey.