Cook Like a Pro: Easy Authentic Chinese Recipes for Home Cooks

For those who appreciate Chinese cuisine, its delightful flavors and fulfilling nature are well-known. Whether you are an experienced chef or a beginner in the kitchen, there is a range of simple, authentic Chinese recipes that you can experiment with at home. Options include classic main dishes, dim sum, and small appetizers, offering a variety of choices to suit every taste.

To get started with Chinese cooking, it's important to have a few essential ingredients on hand. Soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and hoisin sauce are just a few examples. You'll also want to stock up on spices like ginger, garlic, and Sichuan peppercorns. With these ingredients, you'll be able to create a wide range of dishes that are full of flavour.

Mastering the techniques of Chinese cooking can take some practice, but it's well worth the effort. Stir-frying, steaming, and braising are just a few of the methods that are commonly used. With a bit of patience and practice, you'll be able to create dishes that are just as delicious as those you'd find in a restaurant. So why not give it a try?

Key Takeaways

• Essential ingredients for Chinese cooking include soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and hoisin sauce.
• Mastering Chinese cooking techniques like stir-frying, steaming, and braising takes practice, but is worth the effort.
• From classic main dishes to dim sum and small bites, there are plenty of easy authentic Chinese recipes to try at home.

Essential Ingredients for Chinese Cooking

If you are looking to cook authentic Chinese dishes, it is important to have the right ingredients on hand. Here are some essential ingredients that you should consider adding to your pantry.

Sauces and Condiments

Soy sauce is one of the most iconic and well-known Chinese pantry essentials. It adds an earthy and umami flavour to your dishes. Oyster sauce is another staple that is commonly used in stir-fries, marinades and sauces. Garlic and ginger are also essential ingredients that add flavour to your dishes.

Proteins and Vegetables

Chicken breast and thighs are popular proteins used in Chinese cooking. Beef is also commonly used, particularly in stir-fries. Vegetables such as broccoli, bok choy, and snow peas are also commonly used in Chinese dishes. Tofu is a great option for vegetarians and vegans.

If you are looking to add seafood to your dishes, consider using prawns or scallops. These can be used in stir-fries or steamed dishes.

Staple Carbs

Rice is a staple in Chinese cuisine and is used in a variety of dishes. Noodles are also commonly used, particularly in stir-fries. If you are looking for a healthier option, consider using brown rice or whole wheat noodles.

In summary, having the right ingredients on hand is essential when it comes to cooking authentic Chinese dishes. Make sure you have a good supply of sauces and condiments, proteins and vegetables, and staple carbs. By doing so, you'll be able to create delicious and authentic Chinese dishes in no time.

Mastering the Techniques

Chinese cuisine is known for its unique blend of flavours and textures. To achieve the authentic taste of Chinese dishes, it is essential to master the cooking techniques. Here are some of the most important techniques to get you started:

Stir-Frying and Marinating

Stir-frying is a popular cooking technique in Chinese cuisine. It involves cooking small pieces of food over high heat in a wok with a small amount of oil. The wok's shape allows the food to cook quickly and evenly, while the high heat seals in the flavour and gives the dish a crispy texture.

Marinating is another important technique in Chinese cooking. It involves soaking the food in a mixture of seasonings, typically soy sauce, rice wine, and ginger, to enhance the flavour. Marinating also helps to tenderize the meat and seafood, making it more succulent and flavourful.

Seafood, such as prawns, scallops, and squid, can be marinated and stir-fried to create delicious Chinese dishes. For example, you can marinate prawns in soy sauce, rice wine, and ginger, then stir-fry them with garlic and chilli for a spicy and flavourful dish.

Steaming and Boiling

Steaming is a healthy cooking technique that is commonly used in Chinese cuisine. It involves cooking the food in a steamer basket over boiling water. Steaming helps to retain the food's nutrients and flavour, making it a popular choice for seafood, vegetables, and rice dishes.

Boiling is another common cooking technique in Chinese cuisine. It involves cooking the food in a large pot of boiling water. Boiling is typically used for noodles, dumplings, and soups.

When cooking steamed rice, it is important to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Use a ratio of 1:1.5 (rice to water) and bring the water to a boil before adding the rice. Reduce the heat to low and let the rice cook for about 20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed.

In conclusion, mastering the techniques of Chinese cooking is essential to create authentic and delicious dishes. Whether you are stir-frying, marinating, steaming, or boiling, using the right techniques and ingredients will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavour and texture in your dishes.

Classic Main Dishes

When it comes to Chinese cuisine, the main dishes are the stars of the show. From meat dishes to vegetarian delights and seafood specialties, there's something for everyone. Here are some classic main dishes to try at home.

Popular Meat Dishes

Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Sichuan dish that is spicy, sweet, and savory all at once. It's made with chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers, and is perfect for those who love a bit of heat.

Char Siu, or Chinese BBQ Pork, is a Cantonese dish that is sweet, sticky, and delicious. It's made with pork that has been marinated in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder, and then roasted until tender and juicy.

Twice-Cooked Pork is a Sichuan dish that is made with pork belly that has been boiled and then stir-fried with vegetables and spicy bean paste. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for cold winter nights.

Vegetarian Delights

Mapo Tofu is a Sichuan dish that is made with tofu that has been cooked in a spicy, savory sauce made with fermented black beans, chili peppers, and Sichuan peppercorns. It's a great dish for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Eggplant with Garlic Sauce is a classic Chinese dish that is made with eggplant that has been stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and a spicy sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar. It's a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Seafood Specialties

Sweet and Sour Pork is a Cantonese dish that is made with pork that has been battered and deep-fried, and then served with a sweet and sour sauce made with sugar, vinegar, and ketchup. It's a classic dish that is perfect for those who love a bit of sweetness in their meals.

Cashew Chicken is a dish that originated in Hunan province and is made with chicken that has been stir-fried with vegetables and cashew nuts. It's a simple and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

If you're looking to add seafood to your meal, try making Orange Shrimp. It's a dish that is made with shrimp that has been stir-fried with orange zest, ginger, and garlic, and then served with a sweet and spicy sauce. Alternatively, you could try making Steamed Fish, which is a dish that is made with fresh fish that has been steamed with ginger, scallions, and soy sauce.

Dim Sum and Small Bites

If you're looking for a casual and authentic Chinese meal, Dim Sum and Small Bites are perfect for you. These small dishes are typically served with hot tea and are perfect for sharing with friends or family.

Dumplings and Rolls

Dumplings and Rolls are the quintessential Dim Sum dishes. They come in various shapes, sizes and flavours and are often filled with meat, seafood or vegetables. Some of the most popular ones include Chinese Dumplings, Crab Rangoon, and Spring Rolls.

To make Chinese Dumplings, you can use a combination of ground meat and seafood such as shrimp or crab. Mix the filling with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce for added flavour. To cook the dumplings, you can either steam them or pan-fry them. Serve them with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil.

Spring Rolls are another popular Dim Sum dish. They are made with a thin Chinese crepe that is filled with a mixture of vegetables and meat. You can add shrimp or crab to the filling for added flavour. To cook the Spring Rolls, you can either deep-fry them or bake them in the oven. Serve them with a sweet and sour dipping sauce.

Savoury Snacks

Savoury Snacks are perfect for those who want a quick bite on the go. They are often sold as street food in China and come in various forms such as fried wontons, steamed buns, and crispy pancakes.

One popular Savoury Snack is the Crab Rangoon. It is made with a mixture of cream cheese, crab meat, and seasonings. The filling is then wrapped in wonton wrappers and deep-fried until crispy. Serve them with a sweet and sour dipping sauce.

Seafood can also be used in Savoury Snacks. For example, you can make Steamed Shrimp Dumplings by filling the dumplings with a mixture of ground shrimp, garlic, and ginger. Steam them until cooked through and serve them with a soy sauce dipping sauce.

Overall, Dim Sum and Small Bites are a great way to experience authentic Chinese cuisine in a casual and relaxed setting.

Soups and Sides

Comforting Soups

When it comes to authentic Chinese cuisine, soups are a staple. They are not only delicious, but they are also comforting and nourishing. One of the most popular soups is wonton soup, which is a clear, savoury broth filled with delicate wontons filled with minced pork or shrimp. You can also add some vegetables like bok choy or spinach to make it more nutritious.

Another popular soup is Chinese noodle soup, which is a hearty soup made with noodles, vegetables, and meat. You can use chicken, beef, or seafood to make it more flavourful. If you want to add some spice to your soup, you can add some Sichuan peppercorns or chilli oil.

If you are looking for something more adventurous, you can try Chinese hot pot. It is a communal dish that is cooked at the table, and it consists of a simmering pot of broth that is used to cook meat, seafood, and vegetables. You can add some mushrooms, tofu, and noodles to make it more filling.

Accompanying Sides

Chinese cuisine is also famous for its sides, which are often served with the main course. One of the most popular sides is steamed buns, which are soft and fluffy buns filled with pork or vegetables. You can also use seafood like shrimp or crab as a filling for a unique twist.

Another popular side is Chinese dumplings, which are small pockets of dough filled with meat or vegetables. They are usually served with a dipping sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and chilli oil. You can also add some seafood like prawns or scallops to make them more flavourful.

Overall, soups and sides are an essential part of any authentic Chinese meal. They are not only delicious, but they also add variety and nutrition to your diet. So, next time you are craving Chinese food, try making some wonton soup or steamed buns at home and enjoy the taste of China.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's a simple yet traditional Chinese dish you can try making at home?

One of the simplest yet traditional Chinese dishes you can try making at home is stir-fried vegetables. This dish is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. You can use a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms. You can also add tofu or seafood, such as shrimp or squid, to make it more filling. Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a pinch of sugar to bring out the flavors.

Could you recommend some Chinese recipes that are suitable for vegetarians?

If you're a vegetarian, you can try making Mapo Tofu, a Sichuan dish that is both spicy and flavorful. You can also make vegetarian dumplings, which are filled with vegetables and tofu. Another option is stir-fried eggplant with garlic sauce, which is a popular dish in many Chinese restaurants.

What are the go-to Chinese meals for a family dinner that are easy to prepare?

If you're looking for easy-to-prepare Chinese meals for a family dinner, you can try making fried rice, which is a classic Chinese dish that is quick and easy to make. You can also make sweet and sour chicken, which is a popular dish that is both sweet and tangy. Another option is Kung Pao chicken, which is spicy and full of flavor.

I'm new to cooking Chinese cuisine; what are the best dishes for beginners?

If you're new to cooking Chinese cuisine, you can start with simple dishes such as stir-fried vegetables, fried rice, or dumplings. These dishes are easy to make and require minimal preparation. As you gain more experience, you can try making more complex dishes such as hot pot or Peking duck.

Which Chinese chicken recipes are both easy to make and authentic?

If you're looking for easy-to-make and authentic Chinese chicken recipes, you can try making General Tso's chicken, which is a popular dish that is both sweet and spicy. You can also make orange chicken, which is a tangy and flavorful dish that is easy to make. Another option is sesame chicken, which is a classic Chinese dish that is both crispy and savory.

Can you list some classic Chinese dishes that are quick to cook and full of flavour?

If you're looking for classic Chinese dishes that are quick to cook and full of flavor, you can try making Kung Pao chicken, which is spicy and full of flavor. You can also make Mongolian beef, which is a savory and sweet dish that is easy to make. Another option is Ma Po Tofu, which is a spicy and flavorful Sichuan dish. If you like seafood, you can try making shrimp with garlic sauce or steamed fish with ginger and scallions.