Tasty Chinese food is one of the most popular cuisines in the world. And for a good reason. Most dishes are packed with flavor, making them ideal for spice lovers. Plus, they’re usually filling and easy to make.
If you love food from the Far East but don’t have a local restaurant nearby, you can always whip up your own Chinese food at home. While it may seem daunting at first, it’s actually not that difficult to recreate popular Chinese dishes in your kitchen. In this blog, we’ll be covering the most common Chinese dishes, like hot pot and fried rice, as well as lesser-known ones, like dim sum and dumplings. Whether you want a snack or an entire feast, we’ve got you covered.
1. Peking Roasted Duck
Peking Roasted Duck is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine that has been popular for ages. It is a dish of duck coated in a savory soy sauce and ginger-scallion sauce and roasted until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender. Traditionally, it is made using rice flour as the binder, soy sauce, ginger as the main ingredients, and scallions as the garnish.
Another popular variation of Peking Roasting duck includes chicken or pork instead of duck. Additionally, you can add various vegetables to your dishes, such as mushrooms, bok choy, bean sprouts, or Sichuan peppercorns. Finally, you can also add hot sauce or chili paste to spice up your dish.
The dish should be served hot with rice noodles or on its own.
History
The dish traces its roots back to ancient China, where people used pungent spices such as ginger and soy sauce to baste their food while roasting it. In recent years, it has gained popularity among foodies across the globe due to its unique taste and mouth-watering aroma.
Traditionally
Peking Roasted duck is made by coating boneless duck breast with a savory soy sauce mixture before roasting it in a hot oven until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender. The two most common ingredients used in making Peking duck are soy sauce and ginger. They are used to coat the duck before cooking it for an extra layer of flavor and add umami that enhances the taste of food. -Variations-Besides using soy sauce and ginger for basting the duck, you can also add onion rings, scallions, sich
2. Kung Pao Chicken
Kung Pao chicken is a popular dish from the Sichuan province in China. Its unique combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors makes it a popular dish globally. The dish is also known for containing peanuts, which add a nutty taste.
The main ingredients are chicken, peanuts, and chili peppers. These ingredients lend unique flavors to the dish and make it mouth-watering and delicious.
You can serve kung pao chicken with rice or noodles for a complete meal. It is best served hot but can be eaten cold as well.
3. Sweet and Sour Pork
Sweet and sour pork is a classic dish popular across China. It consists of deep-fried pork cubes that are tossed in a sweet and sour sauce made with vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and soy sauce. The dish can be served on its own as a main dish or as part of a larger meal. Sweet and sour pork is usually garnished with bell peppers, pineapple, and onions for added flavor and texture. This dish is popular among people of all ages and can be eaten as a food item or dish for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snack.
The ingredients used in the dish ensure that it is delicious and filling. Ideally, you should use thick-cut pork chops for the dish because they retain their shape well even after being fried. You can also use pork patties or pork sirloin instead if you prefer. Additionally, make sure to season the meat with salt and pepper before cooking it to enhance the flavor. Also, be sure to avoid using non-organic soy sauce as it may contain traces of soybeans, which can be harmful for your health.
Overall, sweet and sour pork is one dish that everyone can enjoy no matter what their preferences are.
4. Hot Pot
What is a hot pot?
It’s a dish in which food is cooked in a pot of boiling water or broth. Ingredients commonly used in hot pot dishes include noodles, vegetables, meats, seafood, tofu, and seasonings. A popular variation of hot pot dishes is known as ‘drool-worthy dumpling stir-fry.’ This dish involves filling the dumpling with a stir-fried mixture of meat and vegetables, then adding sauce and topping it with sesame seeds and soy sauce. Hot pot is commonly served with rice noodles or buns for a filling but satisfying meal.
What are the ingredients typically used in hot pot dishes?
Noodles are the most popular noodles used in hot pot dishes. Other ingredients used include tofu, chicken, shiitake mushrooms, prawns, bean sprouts, cabbage, carrots, onions, garlic chives, and ginger. Other seasonings may be added to hot pot dishes such as soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, or chili paste.
How is hot pot usually served?
The dish is typically served with rice noodles or buns on the side. Some people prefer to eat hot pot directly from the broth without additional rice noodles or buns. Regardless of how it’s served hot pot dishes are popular year-round due to their versatility and delicious taste. Some people also enjoy hot pot as a healthy alternative to fried food or other high-fat meals due to its lower calorie count and fat content.
5. Dim Sum
Dim sum refers to food items that are popular in Chinese cuisine, such as dumplings, buns, and noodles. Different types of dim sum dishes are available, and popular ingredients used in dim sum dishes include pork, seafood, and vegetables. While ordering dim sum dishes, it is essential to know the type of dish being served and the individual ingredients used to make it. Tips for ordering and serving dim sum dishes include avoiding rigid specifications while ordering food at a restaurant. This will help you enjoy your dim sum dish thoroughly and be satisfied with the overall experience. You can also try making your own delicious dim s-um at home using the same essential ingredients.
6. Dumplings
Dumplings are a staple food in many parts of the world, and there are a variety of dumplings available for you to try. Most dumpling recipes call for filling them with savory ingredients such as pork, beef, and shrimp. Different fillings can be used to create dumplings with unique textures and tastes. Whether you prefer fried, steamed, or baked dumplings, there is sure to be a dumpling option that suits your preferences.
Making dumplings from scratch is an easy way to add extra flavor to your dishes. To make dumplings from scratch, start with a liquid base. You can use chicken broth or water depending on the filling and desired consistency. After cooking the filling in the liquid, add it to the batter and stir until fully incorporated. This step makes sure that your dumpling has the perfect amount of filling and binder without leaving any excess or dry spots. Once the dumpling is ready, serve it hot with your favorite sauce.
A tip for cooking the perfect dumpling every time is to follow the instructions on your rice-based dumpling mix carefully and not skip any steps. Also, be sure to monitor your pan and frequently stir so that the dumpling doesn’t burn or get too oily on the pan. With these tips and some practice, making dumplings couldn’t be easier!
7. Ma Po Tofu
What is ma po tofu, and where does it come from?
Ma po tofu is a Chinese dish made from soybeans, broth, starch, seasonings, and added oil. It is popularly known in the West as “water-style tofu.” In China, it is considered a staple food and can be found at most dumpling shops. The dish can be prepared in various ways, including stir-frying, stewing, and baking.
How is the dish prepared?
The dish begins with soy milk or broth that has been seasoned with ginger and other seasonings. After this, soybeans are mashed into a paste-like consistency. This paste is then added to the broth to form soft tofu. Similar to other tofu dishes, ma po tofu can be served warm or cold.
What ingredients are used to make ma po tofu?
For stir-fried ma po tofu, Sichuan peppercorns and chili sauce are popular additions. For stewed or baked versions of the dish, chicken or pork bones are added for flavor. Other common ingredients include soy sauce and rice vinegar.
8. Char Siu
Char siu is a dish that originates from Chinese cuisine. It is made from pork belly and pork butt, stewed with ginger, soy sauce, honey, and other seasonings. Char siu always has a soft and juicy texture. What makes it so popular is its savory taste and chewy texture. Furthermore, char siu is popular for its versatility. You can enjoy char siu in many ways such as stir-fried rice noodles or buns, rice bowls, dumplings, stir-fried dishes, etc.
Besides, char siu is also popular for its variations. Some popular variations of char siu include kung pao siu pok, kung pao chicken hot pot dish, and kung pao tofu hot pot dish. Other dishes that feature char siu as an ingredient include kung pao chicken rice bowl, kung pao rice noodles stir-fried with chicken and vegetables, kung pao rice noodles stir-fried with pork and vegetables, kung pao rice noodles stir-fried with shrimp and vegetables, kung pao rice noodles stir-fried with egg noodles and pork stir-fried rice noodles in soy sauce dish among others.
With all these benefits of the dish, why not try char siu?
9. Chow Mein
What is Chow Mein?
Chow mein is a dish popular in many parts of the world with noodles, vegetables, and meat stir-fried in a sauce. The noodles are usually thick and curly, and they can be made from rice or wheat flour. Usually, chow mein is made by stir-frying noodles with vegetables or meat in a soy sauce-based sauce.
Main ingredients of chow mein
The main ingredients of chow mein include noodles, eggs, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, chicken broth, and spring onions (scallions). These ingredients are stir-fried together to create a delicious dish.
What makes chow mein unique?
Chow mein is unique because it has a great balance of noodles and sauce. Noodles are stir-fried in a soy sauce-based sauce that perfectly absorbs the savory flavors of ginger and garlic. In addition to taste great on their own, noodles also make for an excellent vehicle for absorbing the delicious soy sauce that coats them. At the dish’s most basic level, chow mein is delicious as-is. However, you can spice it up by adding any additional ingredients you prefer, such as fried tofu puffs or pork dumplings.
What types of chow mein are available?
Besides classic chow mein with noodles and vegetables stir-fried in soy sauce-based sauce, you can also find other varieties such as chicken chow mein, seafood chow mein, vegetarian chow mein, spicy chow mein hot pot soup, or fried rice version.
10. Fried Rice
- Fried rice is a popular dish in many countries across the world.
It is a popular dish because of its easy-to-cook and adaptability. The dish is comprised of stir-fried rice with a variety of ingredients, such as chicken, pork, vegetables, eggs, and seafood. It has a savory aroma with fried rice and a scrumptious taste.
- Besides being delicious, fried rice is also healthy.
It is low in calories and fat and can be made at home without using any oil. In addition to that, it is an excellent source of protein and various essential nutrients. You can enjoy fried rice as a staple food or as an appetizer dish.
- Different variations of fried rice are available in the market.
You can try fried rice with noodles or rice noodles instead of potatoes, bok choy, or other veggies for added flavor and nutrition.
- Tips for preparing perfect fried rice include using fresh ingredients for the best results.
Be sure to season your fried rice properly with salt, sesame oil, soy sauce, or chili paste to enhance the flavor profile. Also, be sure to use hot oil so that the food stays hot and crispy when served. Finally, be sure to serve your fried rice hot so that customers can enjoy it immediately after cooking it.
11. Sichuan Pork
Sichuan pork is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine. It is made using soy sauce, ginger, garlic, chili bean paste, and sesame oil.
What is Sichuan pork, and where does it originate from?
– Sichuan pork is a savory dish prepared by stir-frying pork with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, chili bean paste, and sesame oil. It is a popular dish among the residents of the Sichuan province in China.
What ingredients are used to make the dish?
– The key ingredients for Sichuan pork include soy sauce, ginger, garlic, chili bean paste, sesame oil, and water. These seasonings help bring out the unique flavor of the pork.
How is the dish prepared?
– The ingredients for stir-frying pork should be evenly distributed over a hot skillet or wok. Once the ingredients start to stir and sizzle together, add minced pork to the pan and stir quickly. The stir-frying process should be quick but thorough so that all sides of the pork become cooked.
What are some of the health benefits associated with Sichuan pork?
Sichuan pork is known to be a healthy dish as it contains soy sauce and ginger. These two ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties that can help improve symptoms of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Besides that, it also contains chili bean paste which helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduce food cravings. Therefore, eating healthy Sichuan pork can provide you with many positive effects both on your body and mind.
12. Wonton Soup
Wonton soup is a popular dish among food lovers all over the world. It is a classic Chinese dish consisting of small dumplings in a flavorful broth. Wonton soup is typically served as an appetizer or part of a larger meal. The soup can be made with pork, shrimp, or vegetables and flavored with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. Wonton soup is popular amongst both Asian and Western diners alike. It is easy to make and comes together quickly, making it perfect for those looking for a quick and tasty meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular Chinese dishes?
Chinese cuisine is popular around the world, and there are a variety of dishes to choose from. Some of the most popular Chinese dishes include kung pao chicken, sweet and sour pork, hot and sour soup, dumplings, and spring rolls.
No matter which dish you’re looking forward to tasting, Chinese cuisine is certain to please your taste buds with its unique flavors and distinctive styles!
What is the best thing to order for Chinese takeout?
If you’re looking for something delicious to order for Chinese takeout, then you’re in luck! There is a wide variety of dishes to choose from. From savory classics like sweet and sour pork, kung pao chicken, and moo shu pork, to dumpling options such as steamed pork dumplings or vegetable dumplings.
Fried rice is also a popular dish because it is filling and can be made with just about anything. For something spicy, try Szechuan beef or General Tso’s chicken. No matter what dishes you choose, Chinese takeout is sure to hit the spot!
Which is better: fried rice or steamed rice?
When it comes to fried rice vs steamed rice, the choice is ultimately a matter of personal preference. Fried rice is a classic dish made with stir-fried pre-cooked rice and vegetables, meat, and eggs. This dish is popular in Chinese cuisine because of the savory flavor it brings and its ease of preparation. Steamed rice on the other hand is cooked by boiling in water until the grains are soft and all the water has been absorbed.
Both fried rice and steamed rice can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side dish to other Chinese dishes. It really depends on your own taste buds but both dishes have their merits!
Conclusion
There are a variety of Chinese dishes that are widely enjoyed all over the world. Hope you will find the information above useful.
