Discovering the Flavors of China: 20 Delicious Recipes to Try
When it comes to exploring the world’s culinary delights, few cuisines are as iconic and diverse as Chinese food. With its rich history, regional variations, and endless array of ingredients, Chinese cuisine has something for every palate and preference. From spicy Sichuan dishes to delicate Cantonese dim sum, and from savory stir-fries to comforting noodle soups, the options are truly limitless. In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 authentic Chinese recipes that showcase the best of what China’s culinary scene has to offer.
From classic dishes like Kung Pao Chicken and Mapo Tofu, to lesser-known gems like Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings) and Red Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou), we’ll be sharing a mix of popular favorites and hidden gems that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to spice up your meal routine, these recipes are guaranteed to transport your taste buds on an unforgettable culinary journey through China.
Kung Pao Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this classic recipe for Kung Pao Chicken. This spicy and savory dish is made with marinated chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, scallions)
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 1-2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Marinate chicken in soy sauce and cornstarch for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add garlic, mixed vegetables, peanuts, Sichuan peppercorns, and chili flakes. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mapo Tofu
Mapo Tofu is a classic Sichuan dish that combines the creaminess of tofu with the bold flavors of chili peppers, garlic, and fermented soybeans. This recipe brings together the essential elements to create a spicy and savory delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 2 tablespoons fermented soybeans (doubanjiang)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and onion; stir-fry until fragrant.
3. Add tofu; cook until golden brown.
4. Add Sichuan peppercorns, red pepper flakes, and fermented soybeans; stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry; add to the wok and stir-fry until thickened.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peking Duck
Experience the classic Chinese culinary delight with this simplified recipe for Peking Duck. This iconic dish is a must-try for anyone who loves crispy skin and tender meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole duck (3-4 lbs), patted dry
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp five-spice powder
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 scallion, cut into 2-inch pieces
– Pancakes (preferably Peking duck pancakes) and dipping sauces (e.g., hoisin, soy)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and five-spice powder.
3. Rub the mixture all over the duck, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the duck in a roasting pan and drizzle with vegetable oil.
5. Roast the duck for 30 minutes, then reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the duck rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with pancakes and dipping sauces.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Hot and Sour Soup
Hot and Sour Soup Recipe
Warm up with this classic Chinese-inspired soup, bursting with flavors and textures. This hot and sour soup recipe is a staple for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth, mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add tofu, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch mixture. Stir until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dim Sum (Shumai)
A classic Cantonese dim sum dish, Shumai is a delicate steamed dumpling filled with a mixture of pork, shrimp, and vegetables. This recipe yields 12-15 pieces.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup ground pork
+ 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
+ 1/4 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
+ 2 tablespoons soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon sesame oil
+ Salt and pepper to taste
– Water for steaming
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine pork, scallions, shrimp, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling 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 dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Place the Shumai on a bamboo steamer or a metal steamer lined with parchment paper. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)
Char Siu, a beloved Cantonese dish, is a sweet and savory glazed pork recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe yields tender and flavorful pork with a sticky, caramelized glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or butt, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Add the pork strips and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook the pork in batches until browned, about 5 minutes per batch. Transfer the cooked pork to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze (reserved marinade) evenly over the pork. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dan Dan Noodles
Get ready to spice up your noodles with this classic Sichuan dish! Dan Dan Noodles is a popular Chinese street food that combines the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of thin wheat flour noodles
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of chili oil
– 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup of scallions, chopped
– 1/4 cup of roasted peanuts or cashews
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat the soy sauce and chili oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, scallions, and peanuts/cashews. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce.
5. Combine the cooked noodles with the sauce and stir-fry everything together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spring Rolls
Spring rolls are a popular Asian-inspired snack or appetizer that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. This simple recipe yields crispy and delicious spring rolls filled with a savory mixture of vegetables and seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or international aisle)
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and scallions)
– 1/4 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large bowl with warm water.
2. Place a spring roll wrapper on a clean surface and brush the edges with a small amount of water.
3. Place about 1/4 cup of the vegetable mixture in the center of the wrapper, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the spring rolls in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
8. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total
Sweet and Sour Pork
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines tender pork with a tangy sweet and sour sauce, served with crispy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder or loin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snow peas)
– 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix pork cubes with cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove pork from skillet and set aside. Leave the juices in the pan.
4. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp oil, minced garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return cooked pork to the pan and pour in sweet and sour sauce. Stir until coated and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wonton Soup
A classic Cantonese soup, Wonton Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe yields a delicious and savory broth filled with soft wontons and tender vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup pork or vegetable stock
– 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 20-24 wonton wrappers
– Filling of your choice (e.g., ground pork, shredded chicken, or vegetables)
– Chopped scallions and bean sprouts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, stock, soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the wonton filling according to your preference (e.g., mixing with seasonings or herbs).
4. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each wonton wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle or purse shape, pressing edges together to seal.
5. Add wontons to the simmering broth and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
6. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped scallions and bean sprouts.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Quickly cook tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
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 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return beef to the skillet. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Egg Fried Rice
This beloved Chinese dish is a staple for many households. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a flavorful and filling meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
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 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the onion to one side of the pan, then crack in the eggs. Scramble until cooked through, breaking up any large curds.
4. Mix the eggs with the onions, then add the cooked rice. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Add soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)
Savor the rich flavors of Shanghai’s iconic soup dumplings with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Vegetable oil for steaming
Filling Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth.
3. Rest the dough for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
6. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold and pleat the edges to form a purse shape.
7. Steam the dumplings over boiling water for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili peppers to create a mouth-numbingly good General Tso’s Chicken. With just a few ingredients and some simple cooking steps, you’ll be enjoying this iconic dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together cornstarch, soy sauce, vinegar, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add the chicken pieces and toss until well coated.
3. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and stir in salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ma Po Eggplant
A classic Sichuan dish, Ma Po eggplant is a flavorful and spicy stir-fry that combines tender eggplant with ground beef and savory sauce. This recipe yields a deliciously aromatic and numbingly spicy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1 lb ground beef
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 cup Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 2 tablespoons chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– Salt, to taste
– Scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggplants into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
3. Add the garlic, ginger paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, Sichuan peppercorns, and chili bean paste to the wok. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the eggplant pieces to the wok and stir-fry until they’re tender and well coated with the sauce.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Scallion Pancakes
These crispy and savory scallion pancakes are a classic Chinese dish that pairs perfectly with a bowl of hot noodles or as a snack on its own. Made with simple ingredients, this recipe yields a delicious and addictive treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vegetable oil
– 2 scallions (green onions), finely chopped
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal portions, depending on desired pancake size.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and sprinkle chopped scallions on top.
6. Fold the dough in half to form a triangle or fold into a rectangle shape.
7. Cook in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Twice-Cooked Pork
A tender and flavorful pork dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the pork pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the pork from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
5. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast in the preheated oven for 2 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (including marinating time)
Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions
Fresh fish cooked to perfection with the warmth of ginger and scallions, this simple yet flavorful dish is a staple in many Asian cuisines. With just a few ingredients, you can recreate this delightful meal at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish fillet (such as cod or tilapia)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 4 scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fish under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a steamer basket, arrange the sliced ginger and scallion pieces in a single layer.
3. Place the fish on top of the ginger and scallions.
4. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Brush with soy sauce mixture (1 tablespoon soy sauce + 1 tablespoon water) during the last 2 minutes of steaming.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)
This iconic Chinese dish is a staple of Cantonese cuisine, with its rich, sweet, and savory sauce that tenderizes the pork belly to perfection. The slow-cooking process breaks down the collagen in the meat, resulting in a meltingly soft texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly (5 cm thick)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk until dissolved.
3. Add pork belly, garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick to the pot.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Stir-Fried Green Beans with Garlic
A simple yet flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of green veggies while adding a burst of garlic flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the green beans and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Continue cooking and stirring for another 2-3 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Discover the authentic flavors of China with these 20 delicious recipes. From classic dishes like Kung Pao Chicken and Mapo Tofu to savory options like Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork) and Sweet and Sour Pork, there’s something for every palate. Try your hand at making Dim Sum (Shumai), Scallion Pancakes, or Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions. Explore the bold flavors of General Tso’ s Chicken, Ma Po Eggplant, and Red Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou). These recipes are sure to transport you to the streets of Beijing and beyond.
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