Best Chinese Dinner Recipes: Easy and Delicious Meals for Your Next Night In

If you're looking to cook up a delicious Chinese dinner, you've come to the right place. Chinese cuisine is known for its bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and unique cooking techniques. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting out, there are plenty of Chinese dinner recipes that are sure to impress.

Getting started with Chinese cooking can seem intimidating at first, but don't worry – it's easier than you think. Many Chinese dishes are made with just a handful of ingredients and can be whipped up in no time. And with a few basic cooking techniques under your belt, you'll be able to create a wide range of delicious dishes.

Popular main courses in Chinese cuisine include dishes like Kung Pao chicken, sweet and sour pork, and beef with broccoli. These dishes are often served with rice or noodles and can be customized to suit your tastes. And if you're a seafood lover, there are plenty of Chinese dinner recipes that feature fresh fish and shellfish. Propose the use of seafood in the recipe as a suggestion where applicable. Some popular options include shrimp, scallops, and squid.

Getting Started with Chinese Cooking

Chinese cuisine is rich in flavour, texture and spices. If you're looking to get started with Chinese cooking, there are a few essential ingredients and cooking techniques you'll need to master.

Essential Ingredients

One of the most important ingredients in Chinese cooking is soy sauce. It is used in marinades, sauces and as a seasoning. When buying soy sauce, look for a good quality, dark soy sauce. It has a richer flavour and adds depth to your dishes.

Another essential ingredient is fresh produce. Chinese cuisine relies heavily on fresh vegetables and herbs. When shopping for produce, look for seasonal ingredients that are firm and free of blemishes.

Hoisin sauce is another essential ingredient in Chinese cooking. It is a sweet and savoury sauce that is used in marinades, stir-fries and as a dipping sauce.

When it comes to texture, Chinese cuisine has a lot to offer. From crispy stir-fries to silky smooth soups, texture is an important element in Chinese cooking. To achieve the perfect texture, it's important to pay attention to cooking times and techniques.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is one of the most popular cooking techniques in Chinese cuisine. It involves cooking small pieces of food over high heat in a wok or frying pan. This technique allows food to cook quickly while retaining its texture and flavour.

Another popular cooking technique is steaming. Steaming is a healthy way to cook food and is often used to cook seafood and vegetables. Steamed dishes are light, fresh and full of flavour.

If you're looking to add seafood to your Chinese dinner recipes, consider using prawns, scallops or squid. These seafood options are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. For example, you could try making a stir-fry with prawns and vegetables or a steamed scallop dish with ginger and soy sauce.

By mastering these essential ingredients and cooking techniques, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious Chinese dinner recipes at home.

Popular Main Courses

Chinese cuisine is known for its diverse and flavourful main courses. From chicken delights to beef specialities, there is something for everyone. Here are some popular main courses that you can try at home.

Chicken Delights

Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Sichuan dish that is sure to impress your guests. It is a spicy stir-fry that features tender chicken, peanuts, and vegetables. For a seafood twist, you can add shrimp or scallops to the dish.

Mongolian Chicken is another delicious chicken dish that is easy to make. It features tender chicken, green onions, and a sweet and savoury sauce. For a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken breast.

Beef Specialities

Beef and Broccoli is a classic Chinese dish that is easy to make at home. It features tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savoury sauce. For a seafood twist, you can add shrimp or squid to the dish.

Mapo Tofu is a spicy Sichuan dish that features ground beef, tofu, and a spicy sauce. It is a perfect dish for those who love spicy food. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the beef with mushrooms.

Tofu and Vegetarian Options

Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many Chinese dishes. Mapo Tofu is a classic Sichuan dish that features tofu and a spicy sauce. For a healthier option, you can use firm tofu instead of soft tofu.

For a vegetarian option, you can try Buddha's Delight. It is a vegetarian dish that features a variety of vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms. For a seafood twist, you can add shrimp or scallops to the dish.

Chinese cuisine offers a wide range of main courses that are easy to make at home. Whether you prefer chicken, beef, or tofu, there is a dish for everyone. Be sure to experiment with different ingredients and flavours to create your own unique dishes.

Stir-Fries and Noodles

If you're looking for a quick and easy meal that's packed with flavour, stir-fries and noodles are the way to go. These dishes are versatile, allowing you to use a variety of ingredients to suit your preferences. Here are some classic stir-fry dishes and noodle favourites to try out:

Classic Stir-Fry Dishes

Stir-fry dishes are a staple in Chinese cuisine. They're quick to make and can be easily customised to suit your taste. Some classic stir-fry dishes include spicy beef and pepper stir-fry, chicken and cashew nut stir-fry, and vegetable stir-fry.

To make a stir-fry dish, start by heating up some oil in a wok or a large frying pan. Add your choice of meat or seafood, along with some vegetables. Stir-fry for a few minutes until everything is cooked through. Then, add your choice of sauce and stir-fry for another minute or two until everything is well coated.

If you're a seafood lover, try using prawns or squid in your stir-fry dishes. They cook quickly and add a delicious flavour to the dish.

Noodle Favourites

Noodles are a popular ingredient in Chinese cuisine. There are many different types of noodles to choose from, including chow mein and lo mein. They can be used in stir-fry dishes or served on their own with a variety of sauces.

To make a noodle dish, start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions. Then, stir-fry some vegetables and meat or seafood in a wok or a large frying pan. Add the cooked noodles to the pan and stir-fry for a few minutes until everything is well combined.

If you're looking for a spicy noodle dish, try adding some chilli flakes or chilli oil to your stir-fry. You can also use a variety of sauces, such as hoisin sauce or oyster sauce, to add flavour to your noodle dish.

Seafood lovers can try using prawns or scallops in their noodle dishes. They cook quickly and add a delicious flavour to the dish.

Dim Sum and Small Bites

If you're looking for a Chinese dinner that's light and full of flavour, Dim Sum and Small Bites are the perfect choice. These small plates are perfect for sharing and are usually enjoyed with hot tea. Here are some of the best Dim Sum and Small Bites dishes that you can try.

Dumplings and Rolls

Dumplings and Rolls are some of the most popular Dim Sum dishes. They are small and easy to eat, making them perfect for sharing. You can choose from a variety of fillings, including pork, chicken, beef, and vegetables. Some of the most popular dumplings and rolls include:

• Potstickers: These are pan-fried dumplings filled with pork and vegetables. They are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
• Spring Rolls: These are crispy rolls filled with vegetables and sometimes meat. They are usually served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce.
• Chinese Dumplings: These are steamed or boiled dumplings filled with pork and vegetables. They are usually served with a soy sauce dipping sauce.

You can also use seafood as a filling for dumplings and rolls. Shrimp and crab are popular choices.

Soups and Appetisers

In addition to dumplings and rolls, there are also many delicious soups and appetisers that you can enjoy as part of your Chinese dinner. Here are some of the best soups and appetisers:

• Wonton Soup: This is a light and flavourful soup made with wontons filled with pork and vegetables. It is usually served with a clear broth and garnished with green onions.
• Egg Drop Soup: This is a simple soup made with eggs and chicken broth. It is usually garnished with green onions and sometimes peas.
• Steamed Shrimp Dumplings: These are small dumplings filled with shrimp and vegetables. They are usually served with a soy sauce dipping sauce.

If you're looking for a light and flavourful Chinese dinner, Dim Sum and Small Bites are the perfect choice. With so many delicious dishes to choose from, you're sure to find something that you'll love.

Finishing Touches

When it comes to Chinese cuisine, the right sauces and seasonings can make all the difference. Here are some of the most popular options to add the perfect finishing touch to your Chinese dinner recipes.

Sauces and Seasonings

Hoisin sauce is a staple in Chinese cooking and is often used in dishes like sweet and sour pork. This thick, fragrant sauce is made from soybeans, garlic, vinegar, and sugar, and has a sweet and salty taste that pairs well with meat and seafood.

If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can use sugar or honey to add a touch of sweetness to your dishes. These ingredients work particularly well in marinades and glazes for meat and seafood.

For a more tangy flavour, try adding vinegar or citrus juice to your dishes. These ingredients can help to balance out the richness of meat and seafood, and add a refreshing twist to your meals.

Desserts and Sweets

No Chinese meal is complete without a sweet treat to finish it off. Fortune cookies are a classic option, and can be easily made at home using a simple recipe. Alternatively, you can try making homemade fortune cookies for a more personalised touch.

If you prefer something a little more indulgent, Chinese desserts like egg tarts and sesame balls are a delicious option. These treats are often made with a variety of fillings, including sweet bean paste and coconut.

Seafood can also be a great addition to Chinese desserts, particularly in dishes like sweet and sour fish. Try using prawns or scallops for a luxurious twist, or experiment with other seafood options like crab or lobster for a truly decadent treat.

Overall, the right sauces, seasonings, and desserts can take your Chinese dinner recipes to the next level. Whether you prefer sweet or savoury options, there are plenty of delicious choices to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some classic dishes for a Chinese dinner party?

If you're hosting a Chinese dinner party, there are a few classic dishes that you should definitely consider. Some popular options include hot and sour soup, dumplings, kung pao chicken, and stir-fried vegetables. For seafood lovers, you could consider serving steamed fish or prawns in garlic sauce. Don't forget to serve some rice and noodles on the side!

Could you suggest some simple Chinese meals for beginners?

If you're new to Chinese cuisine, there are plenty of simple dishes that you can try. Some easy options include egg fried rice, sweet and sour chicken, and stir-fried vegetables. For vegetarians, you could try making tofu stir-fry or vegetable chow mein. If you're feeling adventurous, you could also try making your own dumplings!

What are the top vegetarian options in Chinese cuisine?

Chinese cuisine has plenty of vegetarian options to choose from. Some popular dishes include vegetable stir-fry, tofu and vegetable soup, and vegetable chow mein. You could also try making your own spring rolls or dumplings with a vegetable filling. If you're a fan of spicy food, you could try making mapo tofu.

What dishes would make up a traditional Chinese family dinner?

A traditional Chinese family dinner would typically include several dishes served family-style. Some popular options include hot and sour soup, kung pao chicken, stir-fried vegetables, and steamed fish. You could also consider serving dumplings or spring rolls as an appetizer. Don't forget to serve rice and noodles on the side!

Which Chinese recipes are both delicious and healthy?

Chinese cuisine can be both delicious and healthy if you choose the right dishes. Some healthy options include steamed fish or vegetables, tofu stir-fry, and vegetable chow mein. You could also try making your own vegetable soup or hot and sour soup. If you're a fan of seafood, you could try making prawns in garlic sauce or steamed fish with ginger and spring onions.

Can you list a few must-try Chinese dishes for a romantic meal for two?

If you're looking to impress your date with a romantic Chinese meal, there are a few dishes that you should definitely consider. Some popular options include sweet and sour chicken, beef and broccoli stir-fry, and prawns in garlic sauce. For vegetarians, you could try making tofu stir-fry or vegetable chow mein. Don't forget to serve some rice and noodles on the side for a complete meal!