Best Chinese Food Recipes: A Guide to Simple Home Cooked Goodness

If you're a fan of Chinese cuisine, you know how delicious and varied it can be. From spicy Szechuan dishes to sweet Cantonese desserts, there's something for everyone. But with so many recipes out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best Chinese food recipes you can make at home.

To create authentic Chinese dishes, it's important to start with the right ingredients and condiments. We'll cover some of the essentials you'll need, like soy sauce, rice wine, and oyster sauce. We'll also introduce you to some less common ingredients, like Sichuan peppercorns and black vinegar.

Once you have your ingredients, it's time to start cooking! We'll walk you through some of the most popular Chinese dishes, like kung pao chicken, dumplings, and fried rice. We'll also share some cooking techniques and tips to help you get the most out of your ingredients. And if you're feeling adventurous, we'll introduce you to some regional Chinese cuisines you may not have tried before.

Key Takeaways

• To create authentic Chinese dishes, start with the right ingredients and condiments.
• Popular Chinese dishes include kung pao chicken, dumplings, and fried rice.
• Regional Chinese cuisines offer a variety of unique and delicious dishes to try.

Essential Ingredients and Condiments

Chinese cuisine is known for its bold and complex flavours that come from the use of various spices, sauces and condiments. If you are looking to cook authentic Chinese food, it is important to have a well-stocked pantry with essential ingredients to help you achieve the perfect taste. In this section, we will discuss some of the essential ingredients and condiments that you should have in your kitchen to cook delicious Chinese food.

Soy Sauce and Oyster Sauce

Soy sauce is the most iconic and well-known Chinese pantry essential that you likely already have stocked. It adds a savoury umami flavour to the dish without adding much colour. It is commonly used in all kinds of dishes. Light soy sauce, or Sheng Chou (生抽), is a must-have Chinese ingredient. It's saltier than regular soy sauce but has a lighter colour. Dark soy sauce is also used to add colour and flavour to the dish.

Oyster sauce is another essential ingredient in Chinese cooking. It is made from oyster extract, sugar, salt and water. It adds a rich, savoury flavour to the dish and is commonly used in stir-fries, noodles and vegetables.

Spices and Flavours

Ginger is another essential ingredient in Chinese cuisine. It adds a warm, spicy flavour to the dish and is commonly used in stir-fries, soups and marinades. Sichuan pepper is another popular spice used in Chinese cooking. It has a unique flavour that is both numbing and spicy.

Hoisin sauce is a thick, dark sauce made from soybeans, sugar, vinegar, and various spices. It is commonly used as a dipping sauce for roasted meats and as a glaze for stir-fried dishes.

Rice wine is also an essential ingredient in Chinese cooking. It is used to add flavour and aroma to the dish. It is commonly used in marinades and stir-fries.

Tofu and Vegetables

Tofu is a staple ingredient in Chinese cuisine. It is made from soybeans and is a great source of protein. It is used in stir-fries, soups and stews.

Scallions are another essential ingredient in Chinese cooking. They add a mild onion flavour to the dish and are commonly used in stir-fries, soups and marinades.

When it comes to vegetables, Chinese cuisine offers a wide variety of options. Bok choy, Chinese broccoli, and snow peas are some of the most commonly used vegetables in Chinese cooking.

If you are looking to add seafood to your Chinese dishes, shrimp, scallops, and squid are great options. They are commonly used in stir-fries, soups and noodles. Fish is also a popular ingredient in Chinese cuisine, and it is often steamed or stir-fried with ginger and scallions.

In conclusion, having a well-stocked pantry with essential ingredients and condiments is crucial for cooking authentic Chinese food. With the right ingredients, you can create delicious and flavourful dishes that will impress your family and friends.

Popular Chinese Dishes

Chinese cuisine is known for its bold flavours, aromatic spices and unique cooking techniques. There are a variety of dishes that have become popular worldwide, and we have listed some of the most loved ones below.

Classic Meat Dishes

Meat dishes are a staple in Chinese cuisine, and there are several classic dishes that are enjoyed all over the world. Kung Pao chicken, Mongolian beef and sweet and sour pork are some of the most popular meat dishes that you can find on any Chinese takeout menu.

If you're looking for something a little different, pork buns are a great option. These steamed buns are filled with savoury pork and make for a delicious snack or meal.

Vegetarian Delights

For vegetarians, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. Dumplings are a popular vegetarian dish that can be filled with a variety of vegetables and spices. Noodle dishes are also a great option, and can be made with a variety of vegetables and sauces.

If you're looking for something a little more filling, fried rice is a great option. This classic dish can be made with a variety of vegetables and spices and is a takeout favourite for many.

Seafood Specialities

Seafood is a popular ingredient in Chinese cuisine, and there are several dishes that are worth trying. Shrimp is a popular seafood ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries and noodle dishes.

If you're looking for something a little different, you can try adding squid or octopus to your dishes. These seafood options can be used in stir-fries, noodle dishes and even soups.

Overall, there are plenty of delicious Chinese dishes to choose from. Whether you're a meat lover, vegetarian or seafood enthusiast, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So why not try making some of these popular Chinese dishes at home and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills?

Cooking Techniques and Tips

Chinese cuisine is known for its unique cooking techniques that bring out the flavours of the ingredients used. In this section, we will discuss some of the most popular techniques and tips that will help you master the art of Chinese cooking.

The Art of Stir-Frying

Stir-frying is a classic Chinese cooking technique that involves cooking ingredients in a wok over high heat. This method is quick and easy, and it preserves the flavour and nutrients of the ingredients. To stir-fry like a pro, make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.

To make your stir-fry even more flavorful, try velveting your meat before stir-frying. Velveting is a technique that involves marinating the meat in a mixture of cornstarch, egg whites, and rice wine. This step helps to tenderize the meat and gives it a velvety texture.

Mastering Dim Sum

Dim sum is a style of Chinese cuisine that consists of small plates of food that are usually served with tea. This style of cooking involves a variety of techniques, such as steaming, boiling, and pan-frying.

One of the most popular dim sum dishes is Har Gow, which is a steamed shrimp dumpling. If you want to add seafood to your Chinese cooking, shrimp is a great option. You can also try making Siu Mai, which is a pork and shrimp dumpling that is pan-fried.

Instant Pot Magic

The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to make a variety of Chinese dishes. This electric pressure cooker is perfect for making soups, stews, and braised dishes.

One of the most popular Instant Pot Chinese recipes is Beef and Broccoli. This dish is made with tender beef and fresh broccoli, and it is cooked in a savoury sauce. If you want to add seafood to this recipe, you can use shrimp or scallops instead of beef.

In conclusion, Chinese cooking techniques and tips can help you create delicious and flavorful dishes. Whether you're stir-frying, mastering dim sum, or using an Instant Pot, there are plenty of ways to add variety to your Chinese cooking. So why not try out some of these techniques and tips in your own kitchen?

Regional Chinese Cuisines

Chinese cuisine is known for its diverse flavours and cooking styles, which vary from region to region. Each region has its unique culinary traditions, ingredients, and techniques that have been passed down through generations. In this section, we will explore some of the most popular regional Chinese cuisines and their signature dishes.

Sichuan and Hunan

Sichuan and Hunan are two provinces in China that are famous for their spicy and numbing cuisine. Sichuan cuisine is known for its use of Sichuan peppercorns, which give the dishes a unique numbing sensation. Hunan cuisine is characterised by its spiciness and the use of pickled chillies. Some of the popular dishes from these regions include Mapo Tofu, Kung Pao Chicken, and Spicy Beef.

If you are a fan of seafood, you can try adding prawns or scallops to your Mapo Tofu for a delicious twist. For a spicy seafood dish, you can try Hunan-style Steamed Fish, which is made with pickled chillies, ginger, and garlic.

Cantonese Favourites

Cantonese cuisine is one of the most popular regional cuisines in China, and it is known for its delicate flavours and fresh ingredients. Cantonese cuisine is characterised by its emphasis on seafood, and some of the popular dishes include Steamed Fish, Roast Duck, and Dim Sum.

If you are a seafood lover, you can try making Steamed Fish with Ginger and Spring Onion, which is a classic Cantonese dish. For a meaty treat, you can try making Roast Duck with Plum Sauce. And if you want to indulge in some delicious dim sum, you can try making Shrimp Dumplings or Char Siu Bao.

Taiwanese Treats

Taiwanese cuisine is a fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous Taiwanese flavours. Taiwanese cuisine is known for its street food, and some of the popular dishes include Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup, Oyster Omelette, and Scallion Pancakes.

If you want to try making some Taiwanese-style seafood dishes, you can try making Salt and Pepper Squid or Three Cup Chicken with Prawns. And for a comforting bowl of soup, you can try making Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup with Fish Balls.

In conclusion, Chinese cuisine is a vast and diverse culinary landscape that offers something for everyone. Whether you prefer spicy Sichuan cuisine or delicate Cantonese dishes, there is always something new to discover and enjoy.

Desserts and Snacks

Sweet Endings

No Chinese meal is complete without a sweet ending. Luckily, Chinese cuisine has a wide range of desserts to choose from. Here are some of the best Chinese desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth:

• Almond Jelly: A simple and popular dessert made with almond-flavoured gelatin and fruit salad swimming in a sweet syrup. It's a light treat that cleanses the palate and is a breeze to make. You only need milk, ground almonds, water, and gelatin or agar-agar.

• Egg Tarts: A small custard tart with a hard and sweet crust, egg tarts are one of the most famous Chinese desserts. They were introduced to China via Portuguese settlers in Macau. Egg tarts are the perfect dessert and are a must-try.

• Sesame Balls: A traditional Chinese dessert made with glutinous rice flour and filled with sweet bean paste. The balls are then rolled in sesame seeds and deep-fried until golden brown. They have a crispy exterior and a chewy interior, making them a perfect snack.

Savoury Snacks

If you're looking for something savoury to snack on, Chinese cuisine has plenty of options. Here are some of the best Chinese snacks to munch on:

• Spring Rolls: A popular snack made with a filling of vegetables, meat, and sometimes seafood, wrapped in a thin pastry and deep-fried until crispy. You can use seafood such as shrimp or crab meat for a delicious twist.

• Egg Rolls: Similar to spring rolls, egg rolls are made with a filling of vegetables, meat, and sometimes seafood, wrapped in a thicker pastry and deep-fried until crispy. They are a perfect snack to munch on.

• Fortune Cookies: A crispy cookie with a fortune inside, fortune cookies are a staple in many Chinese restaurants. They are a fun and delicious way to end a meal.

Chinese cuisine has a wide range of snacks and desserts to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet or savoury, there's a Chinese snack or dessert for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What dishes should you try for an authentic Chinese dinner?

If you're looking for an authentic Chinese dinner, there are a few dishes that you definitely shouldn't miss. One of the most popular dishes is Peking duck, which is a roasted duck that's served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. Another classic dish is hot pot, which is a communal meal where diners cook their own meat, vegetables, and noodles in a bubbling pot of broth. Other popular dishes include dumplings, stir-fried dishes like kung pao chicken and beef with broccoli, and noodle dishes like lo mein and chow mein.

Can you suggest some easy recipes for Chinese home cooking?

If you're new to Chinese cooking or just looking for some easy recipes to try at home, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some simple dishes to start with include stir-fries like beef and broccoli or chicken and cashews, fried rice, and steamed dumplings. For a seafood option, you could try making a simple stir-fry with prawns or scallops, or even a classic sweet and sour fish.

Which Chinese meals are considered the healthiest options?

Chinese cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients and balanced flavours, making it a great choice for healthy eating. Some of the healthiest options include steamed dishes like steamed fish with ginger and scallions, steamed vegetables, and soups like hot and sour soup or egg drop soup. For a vegetarian option, you could try making a stir-fry with tofu and mixed vegetables.

What are some traditional Chinese dishes that are simple to prepare?

While Chinese cuisine can be complex and intricate, there are also plenty of traditional dishes that are simple to prepare. One classic example is congee, a rice porridge that can be flavoured with a variety of ingredients like chicken, pork, or fish. Another simple dish is egg fried rice, which is made by stir-frying cooked rice with eggs, vegetables, and seasonings.

Could you recommend some Chinese recipes suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Chinese cuisine offers a variety of vegetarian options, from stir-fried vegetables to tofu dishes. One classic vegetarian dish is mapo tofu, which is made with soft tofu, minced meat (optional), and a spicy sauce made with fermented black beans and chili bean paste. Another option is stir-fried mixed vegetables, which can be flavoured with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.

What are the top choices for a Chinese-style lunch?

If you're looking for a quick and satisfying lunch, there are plenty of Chinese-style dishes to choose from. Some popular options include dim sum, which are small steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat, seafood, or vegetables, and baozi, which are steamed buns filled with meat or vegetables. For a noodle option, you could try a bowl of hot and sour soup with noodles, or even a simple stir-fry with your choice of protein and vegetables.