The flavors of China are a culinary treasure trove, offering a diverse array of dishes that tantalize the taste buds. With its rich cultural heritage and regional specialties, it can be overwhelming to navigate the vast world of Chinese cuisine. But fear not! We’re here to guide you through the most authentic and mouth-watering recipes that showcase the best of China’s culinary offerings.
From spicy Szechuan noodles to savory Peking duck, we’ve curated a list of 20 must-try dishes that will take your taste buds on a journey across China. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just discovering the world of Chinese cooking, this article is designed to inspire and delight. So let’s dive in and explore the incredible flavors of China!
Kung Pao Chicken
This classic Sichuan dish is a spicy and savory stir-fry that combines the flavors of chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers. With its bold and aromatic taste, Kung Pao Chicken is a staple in Chinese cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 cup peanuts or cashews
– 1/2 cup scallions, chopped
– 1/4 cup chili peppers, diced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the wok.
3. Add garlic, ginger, peanuts, scallions, and chili peppers. Stir-fry for 2 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for another minute.
5. Return chicken to the wok and stir-fry until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mapo Tofu
A classic Sichuan dish, Mapo Tofu is a spicy and savory tofu stew made with ground pork, chili peppers, and fermented soybeans. This recipe serves 2-3 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup of ground pork
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of ginger, minced
– 1 tablespoon of fermented soybean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1 teaspoon of Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, doubanjiang, Sichuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the tofu and stir to coat with the sauce.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peking Duck
Experience the authentic flavors of China with this classic Peking duck recipe. A masterpiece of culinary art, this dish is perfect for special occasions or a memorable dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole duck (3-4 lbs)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp five-spice powder
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, five-spice powder, and rice vinegar.
3. Rinse the duck and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the mixture all over the duck, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Stuff garlic and ginger into the duck’s cavity.
5. Roast the duck for 30 minutes, then reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes or until crispy skin forms.
6. Serve with scallions and your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Hot and Sour Soup
This classic Chinese soup is a staple of Szechuan cuisine, balancing spicy and sour flavors with savory goodness. Perfect for a quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, button)
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, mushrooms, tofu, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Char Siu Pork
A classic Cantonese dish that’s both sweet and savory, Char Siu Pork is a staple in Hong Kong cuisine. This recipe yields tender, caramelized pork with a sticky glaze that’s perfect for serving as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and five-spice powder.
3. Add the sliced pork to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the pork from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
5. Place the pork strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each piece.
6. Brush the tops with sesame oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dim Sum Shrimp Dumplings
Experience the authentic flavors of China with this simple recipe for Dim Sum Shrimp Dumplings. These tender, bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick and easy snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and/or grated ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Steam the dumplings over boiling water for 8-10 minutes, or cook them in a pan with 1 tablespoon of oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (steaming) or 3-5 minutes per side (pan-frying)
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for any meal. With just a few ingredients, you can have a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, broccoli, and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
5. Return the beef strips to the skillet and stir-fry for another minute to combine with the vegetables and sauces.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Szechuan Spicy Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this spicy noodle dish, perfect for those who crave a little heat in their meal. This recipe combines the numbing sensation of Szechuan peppercorns with the savory taste of soy sauce and the kick of chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of noodles (rice or egg-based)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add soy sauce, chili flakes, and cooked noodles; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Egg Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This recipe yields a savory and fluffy egg fried rice dish, perfect for a quick meal or as a side.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Push the onion aside and add the beaten eggs. Scramble until cooked through, breaking up any large pieces.
4. Mix the eggs with the onion and add the cooked rice. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Add soy sauce to taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
7. Serve hot!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pork
A classic Chinese dish that’s both sweet and tangy, this recipe is a staple for any pork lover. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, this sweet and sour pork is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or loin, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together cornstarch and salt. Add the pork pieces and toss until coated.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Cook the onion and garlic until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Pour in the sweet and sour sauce and stir to combine. Add the cooked pork back into the wok and toss to coat with the sauce.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wonton Soup
A classic Chinese soup that’s both comforting and flavorful, Wonton Soup is a staple dish in many Asian cuisines. This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/2 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Noodles or rice for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, scallions, and garlic.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the wonton.
5. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Add the wontons to the pot and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
8. Serve hot with noodles or rice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spring Rolls
Delight your senses with these crispy and flavorful spring rolls, perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or at Asian markets)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and scallions)
– 1/4 cup cooked and shredded chicken or tofu
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together chopped vegetables, cooked chicken or tofu, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you (like an equilateral triangle).
3. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Deep-fry spring rolls until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per batch). Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 10 minutes
– Cooking time: 4-6 minutes (depending on frying method)
– Total time: 14-16 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken
A classic Chinese-American dish that combines crispy fried chicken with a sweet and spicy General Tso’s sauce, this recipe is a staple of any takeout or home-cooked meal. With its bold flavors and textures, it’s no wonder why General Tso’s Chicken remains a beloved favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup General Tso’s sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and toss until coated.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes, until cooked through.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add General Tso’s sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic-ginger mixture.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and toss with the sauce until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Scallion Pancakes
Delight in the savory flavor of these crispy scallion pancakes, a popular Chinese street food. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, they’re sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 bunch scallions (green onions), thinly sliced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into pancake shapes.
6. Brush both sides with vegetable oil and sprinkle with scallion slices.
7. Cook on a non-stick pan or griddle over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Fish with Ginger and Soy
This classic Chinese-inspired recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to prepare fish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of ginger, soy sauce, and scallions adds a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, such as cod or tilapia)
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 scallions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Place the sliced ginger in the bottom of the steamer basket.
4. Arrange the fish fillets on top of the ginger.
5. Drizzle the soy sauce and vegetable oil over the fish.
6. Sprinkle chopped scallions over the top.
7. Steam for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
8. Serve hot with additional soy sauce and scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chinese BBQ Pork Buns
These soft and fluffy buns are filled with tender Chinese-style BBQ pork, perfect for a quick snack or as part of a larger meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, braised in soy sauce and spices (see note)
+ 2 tablespoons chopped scallions
+ 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, sugar, and warm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
4. Preheat steamer to high heat.
5. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
6. Spoon the braised pork onto the center of each disk, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a bun shape, and seal the edges by pressing gently with your fingers.
8. Steam the buns for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
Note: For the braised pork, cook 1 pound of pork shoulder or butt in soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and five-spice powder (or to taste) over low heat for at least 2 hours.
Dan Dan Noodles
This classic Sichuan dish is a staple of Chinese cuisine, with a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and numbing flavors. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can recreate this flavorful noodle dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup noodles (such as lo mein or soba)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili bean paste, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add cooked noodles to the sauce and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salt and Pepper Shrimp
This classic Cantonese-inspired dish is a staple of Chinese cuisine, featuring succulent shrimp coated in a savory mixture of salt, pepper, and spices. With just a few ingredients and simple cooking steps, you can enjoy this flavorful treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, white pepper, and five-spice powder (if using).
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add the coated shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chinese Hot Pot
Warm up with a flavorful and communal experience! This classic Chinese hot pot recipe is perfect for gathering friends and family around the table.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork or beef slices (or combination)
– 1 lb fish balls
– 1 bunch of bok choy, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Noodles or rice for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot or wok.
2. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir well.
3. Arrange the pork or beef slices, fish balls, and bok choy around the hot pot.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve with noodles or rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tips:
– Use a variety of dipping sauces to add flavor (e.g., soy sauce, vinegar, chili oil).
– Consider adding other ingredients like mushrooms, tofu, or seafood for added flavor and texture.
Braised Pork Belly with Soy Sauce
A classic Chinese dish that requires patience but rewards with tender, unctuous pork belly smothered in a rich soy sauce glaze. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise pod
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, combine pork belly, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon.
3. Pour in chicken broth until the pork is covered about halfway.
4. Cover the pot with a lid or foil and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or overnight (8-10 hours).
6. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Summary
Discover the authentic flavors of China with these 20 mouth-watering recipes. From spicy Kung Pao Chicken to tender Peking Duck, and from savory Mapo Tofu to comforting Egg Fried Rice, this collection has something for everyone. Other highlights include Char Siu Pork, Dim Sum Shrimp Dumplings, Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry, and Szechuan Spicy Noodles. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and sour pork or wonton soup, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the Far East. Perfect for home cooks and foodies alike, this diverse selection is sure to inspire a world of culinary adventures.
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