Start your day with a flavorful twist! Chinese cuisine offers a wide range of delicious breakfast options that are both nourishing and filling. From classic dim sum dishes to modern twists on traditional favorites, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering Chinese breakfast recipes that will inspire you to try something new every morning. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory rice porridge, a crispy scallion pancake, or a sweet and fluffy steamed bun, these recipes are sure to delight.
Steamed Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao)
These tender and flavorful steamed buns are filled with sweet and savory char siu pork, making them a perfect snack or appetizer. With this easy recipe, you can create delicious Char Siu Bao at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup char siu pork filling (see below)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Char Siu Pork Filling:
– 1 pound boneless pork, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Instructions:
1. Mix flour, yeast, and salt in a bowl.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide into small portions and shape into buns.
5. Place pork filling in the center of each bun.
6. Fold and seal the buns.
7. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)
A classic Chinese street food, Scallion Pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, flavored with the savory taste of scallions. This simple recipe yields a delicious batch of Cong You Bing perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green and white parts)
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, salt, and baking powder. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired pancake size.
4. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
5. Brush the surface with vegetable oil and sprinkle with chopped scallions.
6. Cook in a non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Soy Milk and You Tiao (Chinese Fried Dough Sticks)
Satisfy your cravings with this classic Chinese combination of crispy fried dough sticks (You Tiao) served with a refreshing glass of soy milk.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Soy milk, chilled
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in warm water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small pieces and roll out each piece into a thin strip.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the dough strips for 30 seconds on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve hot with a chilled glass of soy milk.
Cooking Time:
– Frying time: 1-2 minutes
– Total preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Egg Fried Rice with Vegetables
This classic Chinese dish is a staple for any meal or gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick cooking, you can create a flavorful and nutritious bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until they’re translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix everything together, then add the cooked rice and stir-fry until combined with the vegetables and egg.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Rice Noodle Rolls (Cheung Fun)
A classic Cantonese dish, Cheung Fun is a delicate rice noodle roll filled with savory ingredients. This recipe yields soft and chewy rolls perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of rice flour
– 1/2 cup of water
– Filling ingredients (choose one or more):
+ Shrimp, cooked and chopped
+ Scallions, finely chopped
+ Bean sprouts, blanched
+ Pork or chicken, cooked and shredded
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rice flour and water. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small pieces and roll out each piece into a thin sheet.
4. Place your chosen filling in the center of each sheet, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Fold the edges over to form a compact roll.
6. Steam the rolls for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Savory Rice Porridge (Congee) with Pork and Century Egg
This comforting congee is a staple in Chinese cuisine, perfect for a cozy meal or as a soothing remedy when under the weather. The addition of tender pork and creamy century egg adds rich flavor and texture to this classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup diced pork (such as shoulder or belly)
– 1 century egg, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine cooked rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Add diced pork, century egg, vegetable oil, onion, and garlic to the pot. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the pork is tender.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of soy sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pan-Fried Dumplings (Guo Tie)
Enjoy a crispy and savory twist on traditional Chinese dumplings with this easy-to-make pan-frying method.
Ingredients:
– 20-25 store-bought or homemade dumpling wrappers
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for pan-frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Lay a dumpling wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. 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. Heat about 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
5. Pan-fry the dumplings until they are golden brown on the bottom, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes, until crispy and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Sweet Red Bean Pancakes
Sweet Red Bean Pancakes Recipe
Start your day with a delicious and unique breakfast treat by making these sweet red bean pancakes! This recipe combines the traditional Japanese ingredient, azuki beans, with a hint of sweetness and fluffiness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup red bean paste (or azuki bean paste)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Butter or cooking spray for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine milk, egg, and red bean paste. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or cooking spray if necessary.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
6. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes for 8-10 pancakes.
Steamed Custard Buns (Nai Wong Bao)
These soft and fluffy buns are filled with a creamy custard center, perfect for a sweet treat or snack. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy these delicious Nai Wong Bao at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup custard filling (see below)
– Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Custard Filling:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, sugar, and salt to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat steamer basket with boiling water. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
6. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten slightly to form a disk shape.
7. Place a spoonful of custard filling in the center of each disk. Fold the dough over and seal the edges.
8. Steam the buns for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage (Lap Cheong)
A classic Cantonese dish that combines fluffy sticky rice with the savory flavors of Chinese sausage, perfect for a comforting meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup Lap Cheong Chinese sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced Lap Cheong sausage and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a large saucepan, combine the drained glutinous rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and sticky.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the crispy Lap Cheong sausage.
5. Serve hot and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Scrambled Eggs with Tomatoes
A simple and delicious breakfast recipe that combines fluffy scrambled eggs with juicy tomatoes. Perfect for a quick morning meal or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and scramble the eggs until they are cooked to your liking (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and stir gently to combine with the scrambled eggs.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chinese Tea Eggs (Cha Ye Dan)
A traditional Chinese snack that’s both flavorful and aromatic, Chinese Tea Eggs are a perfect accompaniment to tea or as a quick pick-me-up. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delicious eggs at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup black tea leaves (strong brewed tea)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Hard-boil the eggs and let them cool.
2. In a large pot, combine sugar, tea leaves, soy sauce, water, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the cooled eggs to the pot and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the eggs are fully infused with the tea flavor.
5. Remove the eggs from the pot and let them cool.
6. Once cooled, crack the shells gently and serve.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegetable Spring Rolls
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful Vegetable Spring Rolls, packed with a mix of colorful vegetables and served with a side of sweet chili sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or international aisle)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup sliced scallions
– 1/4 cup bean sprouts
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the chopped cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced scallions, bean sprouts, and cilantro.
3. Add soy sauce and sesame oil to the vegetable mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the vegetable mixture in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook the spring rolls in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve warm with sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wonton Soup
A classic Chinese soup recipe that’s both comforting and flavorful, Wonton Soup is a staple dish in many Asian cuisines. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Noodles or rice for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful 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. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add wontons to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
6. Serve hot with noodles or rice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stir-Fried Noodles with Soy Sauce
Quickly cook a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simple recipe. This classic Chinese dish is made with stir-fried noodles, vegetables, and savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of cooked noodles (such as rice noodles or egg noodles)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 2 teaspoons of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until softened, about 1 minute.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the wok and stir-fry for about 1 minute.
5. Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with scallions if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Vegetable Buns
These tender buns are packed with a variety of sautéed vegetables, perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack. With no yeast required, this recipe is great for beginners or those short on time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup sautéed mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Place a spoonful of sautéed vegetables in the center of each disk.
7. Fold edges to form a bun shape, pressing gently to seal.
8. Steam buns for 10-12 minutes or until fluffy and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow)
A classic Cantonese dim sum dish, Fried Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow) are a delicate and flavorful treat that combines succulent shrimp with crispy fried wrappers. This recipe yields a batch of delicious Har Gow that’s perfect for snacking or serving at your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful 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.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
5. Fry the dumplings in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Congee
Congee, a comforting rice porridge, is a staple in many Asian cuisines. This recipe adds tender chicken and earthy mushrooms to create a nourishing and flavorful bowl.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice, broth, ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the porridge thickens.
5. Stir in cooked chicken. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Taro and Pork Steamed Buns
These fluffy steamed buns are filled with a savory mixture of taro and pork, perfect as a snack or light meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup taro puree
– 1/2 cup cooked pork, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth.
3. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
5. Flatten each ball into a disk shape, then place a spoonful of taro-pork mixture in the center.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a bun shape. Seal edges by pressing with your fingers.
7. Steam the buns for 15-20 minutes or until fluffy and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Onion and Sesame Pancakes
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with these crispy and flavorful green onion and sesame pancakes, perfect for any time of day. With a subtle sweetness from the sesame oil and a punch of freshness from the green onions, these treats are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (about 4-5 inches)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add warm water and mix until just combined.
3. Stir in garlic and green onions.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve warm with sesame oil drizzled on top and garnished with additional green onions and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes per batch, depending on the number of pancakes.
Summary
Discover the delicious world of Chinese breakfast recipes! This article presents 20 mouthwatering dishes to start your day. From classic steamed pork buns and scallion pancakes to savory egg fried rice and congee with pork and century egg. You’ll also find pan-fried dumplings, sweet red bean pancakes, sticky rice with Chinese sausage, and more. These authentic recipes showcase the diversity of Chinese cuisine and are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for inspiration, this collection is the perfect starting point for your culinary adventure.
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