Must-Try Chinese Recipes from Food Network for Every Home Cook

If you are a Chinese food lover, you will be delighted to know that Food Network offers a variety of delicious Chinese recipes that you can try making in the comfort of your own kitchen. With options ranging from traditional breakfast dishes to popular lunch and dinner choices, Food Network's Chinese recipe collection caters to all tastes. Whether you are a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, you will find these recipes easy to follow and incredibly satisfying to savour.

To create authentic Chinese dishes, it's essential to have the right ingredients. Some of the essential ingredients for Chinese cooking include soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. You'll also need a variety of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices to add flavour to your dishes. If you're a seafood lover, you can also use seafood in your Chinese recipes. Shrimp, crab, and scallops are popular choices for Chinese cuisine.

To master Chinese cooking techniques, it's important to understand the principles of Chinese cooking. Chinese cooking is all about balancing flavours and textures. You'll need to learn how to stir-fry, steam, and braise your ingredients to create delicious Chinese dishes. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create balanced Chinese meals that are both healthy and delicious.

Key Takeaways

• The Food Network has a wide range of Chinese recipes that you can try at home.
• Essential ingredients for Chinese cooking include soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
• To master Chinese cooking techniques, you'll need to learn how to balance flavours and textures, and use techniques like stir-frying, steaming, and braising.

Essential Ingredients for Chinese Cooking

Chinese cuisine is known for its bold and complex flavours, which are achieved through the use of a variety of ingredients. If you're looking to cook Chinese food at home, it's important to have a few key ingredients on hand. Here are some essential ingredients that you should consider adding to your pantry:

The Role of Garlic and Ginger

Garlic and ginger are two of the most important ingredients in Chinese cooking. They add a depth of flavour and aroma to dishes that is hard to replicate with any other ingredient. Garlic is used in many savoury dishes, while ginger is often used in both sweet and savoury dishes.

When using garlic and ginger in your cooking, it's important to chop them finely or grate them to release their flavour. You can also use a garlic press to make the process easier.

Soy Sauce and Hoisin Sauce Varieties

Soy sauce is a staple ingredient in Chinese cooking. It adds a salty and umami flavour to dishes and is used in marinades, stir-fries, and dipping sauces. There are many different varieties of soy sauce available, including light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and sweet soy sauce.

Hoisin sauce is another sauce that is commonly used in Chinese cooking. It has a sweet and savoury flavour and is often used as a glaze for meats or as a dipping sauce.

Proteins: Chicken, Shrimp, and Beyond

Proteins are an important component of Chinese dishes. Chicken is one of the most commonly used proteins in Chinese cooking and is used in dishes such as Kung Pao chicken and General Tso's chicken.

Shrimp is another popular protein that is used in Chinese dishes. It can be used in stir-fries, soups, and dumplings. Other proteins that are commonly used in Chinese cooking include beef, pork, and tofu.

If you're looking to add seafood to your Chinese dishes, consider using shrimp or scallops. Both of these seafood options have a mild flavour that pairs well with the bold flavours of Chinese cuisine. You can also use fish, such as salmon or cod, in dishes such as steamed fish or fish congee.

In conclusion, these essential ingredients are the building blocks of Chinese cuisine. By having them on hand, you'll be able to create delicious and authentic Chinese dishes at home.

Traditional Chinese Breakfast Recipes

Chinese breakfast is a unique experience that you must try at least once in your life. The most popular breakfast dishes in China are noodles, congee, dumplings, plain or stuffed buns, and bing (oven or pan-baked flatbread). In this section, we will introduce you to two popular Chinese breakfast dishes: Chinese Coconut Buns and BBQ Pork Bao Buns.

Chinese Coconut Buns

Chinese Coconut Buns, also known as Cocktail Buns, are sweet buns filled with a coconut filling. They are soft, fluffy, and have a slightly crisp exterior. These buns are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

To make Chinese Coconut Buns, you will need the following ingredients:

• 300g bread flour
• 30g sugar
• 4g instant yeast
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 30g unsalted butter
• 150ml milk
• 1 egg
• 100g desiccated coconut
• 50g sugar
• 30g unsalted butter
• 1 egg yolk

To make the filling, mix the desiccated coconut, sugar, and unsalted butter in a bowl. Add the egg yolk and mix well.

To make the buns, mix the bread flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a bowl. Add the unsalted butter, milk, and egg. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Divide the dough into 12 pieces. Flatten each piece and add a tablespoon of the filling. Pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside the dough. Place the buns on a baking tray and let them rest for 15 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Brush the buns with egg wash and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

BBQ Pork Bao Buns

BBQ Pork Bao Buns, also known as Char Siu Bao, are steamed buns filled with BBQ pork. They are soft, fluffy, and have a sweet and savoury filling. These buns are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

To make BBQ Pork Bao Buns, you will need the following ingredients:

• 300g bread flour
• 30g sugar
• 4g instant yeast
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 30g unsalted butter
• 150ml milk
• 1 egg
• 200g BBQ pork

To make the buns, mix the bread flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a bowl. Add the unsalted butter, milk, and egg. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Divide the dough into 12 pieces. Flatten each piece and add a tablespoon of BBQ pork. Pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside the dough. Place the buns on a piece of baking paper and let them rest for 15 minutes.

Place the buns in a steamer and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

If you want to add seafood to these recipes, you can try adding shrimp or crab meat to the filling. Make sure to cook the seafood before adding it to the filling.

Popular Chinese Lunch and Dinner Dishes

If you're looking for inspiration on what to cook for your next Chinese meal, Food Network has got you covered. Here are some popular Chinese lunch and dinner dishes that you can easily make at home.

Kung Pao Chicken and Its Variations

Kung Pao chicken is a classic Chinese dish that is spicy, savoury, and slightly sweet. It's made with chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and a spicy sauce. If you're not a fan of chicken, you can also make Kung Pao shrimp, Kung Pao beef, or Kung Pao tofu.

As a suggestion, you can also add seafood to your Kung Pao recipe. Prawns or scallops can be used to replace the chicken, and they go well with the spicy sauce and peanuts.

Stir-Fry Techniques with Vegetables and Noodles

Stir-fry is a quick and easy way to cook vegetables and noodles. You can use any vegetables you like, such as broccoli, carrots, peppers, and mushrooms. For the noodles, you can use egg noodles, rice noodles, or udon noodles.

To make a seafood stir-fry, you can add prawns, squid, or fish fillets. They cook quickly and add a nice flavour to the dish.

The Art of Perfect Chow Mein

Chow mein is a popular Chinese dish made with noodles, vegetables, and meat. The key to making perfect chow mein is to cook the noodles until they are just tender and not overcooked. You can use any type of meat, such as chicken, beef, or pork.

If you want to add seafood to your chow mein, you can use shrimp, squid, or crab meat. They go well with the noodles and vegetables and add a nice seafood flavour to the dish.

That's it for our popular Chinese lunch and dinner dishes. With these recipes, you can easily make a delicious Chinese meal at home.

Mastering Chinese Cooking Techniques

Chinese cuisine is known for its unique and complex flavours, which are achieved through the use of various cooking techniques. Here are some fundamental techniques that will help you master Chinese cooking:

Wok Cooking Fundamentals

The wok is an essential tool in Chinese cooking, and it is used for stir-frying, deep-frying, and steaming. To get the most out of your wok, it is important to season it properly before use. This involves heating the wok over high heat and adding oil to the surface, then rubbing the oil into the surface with a paper towel. This process creates a non-stick surface that will help prevent food from sticking to the wok.

When stir-frying, it is important to keep the ingredients moving constantly to prevent them from burning. Start with the ingredients that take the longest to cook, such as meat or vegetables, and add the quicker-cooking ingredients towards the end. This will help ensure that everything is cooked evenly.

Thickening with Cornstarch

Cornstarch is a common ingredient in Chinese cooking, and it is used to thicken sauces and soups. To use cornstarch as a thickener, mix it with a small amount of water to create a slurry, then add it to the dish towards the end of the cooking process. This will help thicken the sauce or soup and give it a smooth, silky texture.

When using cornstarch, it is important to remember that a little goes a long way. Start with a small amount and add more as needed, stirring constantly until the desired consistency is reached.

If you are looking to add seafood to your Chinese dishes, consider using shrimp or scallops. These delicate seafood options are perfect for stir-fries and can be cooked quickly and easily in a wok. Alternatively, you could try adding some prawns to a cornstarch-thickened soup for a delicious and filling meal.

By mastering these fundamental Chinese cooking techniques, you will be well on your way to creating delicious and authentic Chinese dishes in your own kitchen.

Creating Balanced Chinese Meals

When it comes to Chinese cuisine, it's all about balancing flavours and textures to create a satisfying and healthy meal. Here are some tips on how to create balanced Chinese meals at home.

Combining Flavours: Sweet and Savoury

One of the most distinctive features of Chinese cuisine is the combination of sweet and savoury flavours. To achieve this balance in your own cooking, try incorporating ingredients like sugar, scallions, and tender meats like chicken or seafood. For example, a classic Chinese dish like sweet and sour chicken combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savoury flavour of chicken.

When cooking with seafood, consider using prawns or scallops. These tender and succulent seafood options are perfect for adding flavour and texture to your Chinese meals.

The Importance of Rice and Noodles

Rice and noodles are staples in Chinese cuisine and are an important part of creating a balanced meal. White rice is a common choice, but you can also try using brown rice for a healthier option. When it comes to noodles, there are many types to choose from, including egg noodles, rice noodles, and wheat noodles.

To create a balanced meal, be sure to include plenty of vegetables and protein in your rice or noodle dishes. For example, you could try making a stir-fry with vegetables like broccoli, peppers, and carrots, and adding in some sliced chicken or prawns for protein.

By following these tips, you can create delicious and healthy Chinese meals at home that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I whip up a quick Chinese dinner using Food Network recipes?

If you're short on time and need to whip up a quick Chinese dinner, Food Network has got you covered. You can find a variety of Chinese recipes that are quick and easy to prepare. Some popular options include stir-fried dishes, fried rice, and noodle dishes. You can also try making Chinese dumplings, which are a great option for a quick and easy meal.

What are some traditional Chinese chicken dishes I can find on Food Network?

Food Network has a variety of traditional Chinese chicken dishes that you can try. Some popular options include Kung Pao chicken, General Tso's chicken, and sweet and sour chicken. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can try steamed chicken with ginger and scallions.

Are there any healthy Chinese meal options featured on Food Network?

Yes, there are plenty of healthy Chinese meal options featured on Food Network. Some popular options include steamed fish, vegetable stir-fries, and steamed dumplings. You can also try making a Chinese-style salad with fresh vegetables and a light dressing.

Where can I find authentic Chinese beef recipes that are simple to prepare?

Food Network has a variety of authentic Chinese beef recipes that are simple to prepare. Some popular options include beef and broccoli stir-fry, Mongolian beef, and beef chow mein. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try making a spicy Szechuan-style beef dish.

Could you suggest some easy traditional Chinese food recipes for beginners?

If you're new to Chinese cooking, there are plenty of easy traditional Chinese food recipes that you can try. Some popular options include egg fried rice, Chinese-style steamed buns, and wonton soup. You can also try making Chinese-style dumplings or stir-fried vegetables.

What are the top healthy Chinese takeaway alternatives recommended by Food Network chefs?

If you're looking for healthy Chinese takeaway alternatives, Food Network chefs recommend trying dishes like steamed fish, vegetable stir-fries, and steamed dumplings. You can also try making your own Chinese-style salad with fresh vegetables and a light dressing. If you're in the mood for something heartier, you can try making a stir-fry with lean protein like chicken or seafood. When it comes to seafood, you can try using prawns, scallops, or squid in your dishes for a delicious and healthy meal.