Are you new to cooking Chinese food and not sure where to start? Look no further! With a rich culinary history and diverse regional flavors, Chinese cuisine can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering Chinese recipes that are perfect for beginners. From classic stir-fries to comforting soups, and from crispy fried dishes to tender braises, these recipes will give you a solid foundation in the world of Chinese cooking.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, we’ve got you covered. In the following pages, we’ll delve into the world of Kung Pao chicken, Mapo tofu, and other beloved dishes that are sure to become new favorites. So grab your wok and let’s get started! [insert image here]
Kung Pao Chicken
This classic Chinese dish combines the flavors of peanuts, chili peppers, and savory chicken for a spicy and satisfying meal. With its bold flavors and crunchy textures, Kung Pao Chicken is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup peanuts or cashews
– 1/4 cup chili peppers (Szechuan peppercorns or red pepper flakes), toasted and chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, peanuts, chili peppers, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mapo Tofu
A classic Sichuan dish, Mapo Tofu is a spicy and savory tofu stir-fry that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles. This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Sichuan peppercorns, chili peppers, and fermented soybeans to create a dish that’s both comforting and addictive.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon fermented soybean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup chili bean paste (mapo paste)
– 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, about 30 seconds.
3. Add tofu; cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in Sichuan peppercorns, doubanjiang, and mapo paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pork
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of takeout menus everywhere, but it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With this simple recipe, you’ll be enjoying crispy, sweet, and sour pork bites in no time.
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 (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together cornstarch and a pinch of salt.
2. Add pork pieces to the bowl and toss until coated with cornstarch mixture.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add pork and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
5. Remove pork from skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
7. Pour in sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
8. Add cooked pork back into the skillet and toss to coat with sauce.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Egg Fried Rice
A simple and satisfying Chinese-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side to your favorite stir-fry. This recipe combines cooked rice, scrambled eggs, and vegetables with a savory flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 eggs
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Scramble the eggs in the pan until they’re cooked through; set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan and stir-fry until they’re translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Fold in the scrambled eggs and stir-fry everything together for about 30 seconds.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and some swift stir-frying, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye work well)
– 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
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli to the pan and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan and stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions if desired.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Dumplings
Savor the flavors of Asia with this classic pork dumpling recipe, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
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 sesame oil
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
5. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
6. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
7. Repeat with remaining wrappers and pork mixture.
Cooking Time:
– Steam dumplings for 8-10 minutes or pan-fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Hot and Sour Soup
This classic Chinese soup is a savory and tangy delight that’s both comforting and rejuvenating. With its harmonious balance of hot and sour flavors, it’s no wonder Hot and Sour Soup remains a staple in many Asian cuisines.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add broth, water, soy sauce, and vinegar; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat; simmer for 10-15 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
6. Whisk together cornstarch and 1 tablespoon water; stir into soup to thicken further.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spring Rolls
Delight in the freshness of spring with these crispy and flavorful rolls filled with a medley of vegetables and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the Asian food section)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup grated zucchini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped cabbage, carrots, scallions, and zucchini.
2. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the vegetable mixture. Mix well.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the vegetable mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Fry the spring rolls in hot oil until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken
This classic Chinese-American dish is a sweet and spicy masterpiece that combines crispy fried chicken with a tangy General Tso’s sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer.
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 grated fresh ginger
– 1 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.
2. Add the chicken pieces and toss until coated.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
4. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, ginger, and General Tso’s sauce.
6. Add the sauce mixture to the wok or skillet with the cooked chicken.
7. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and sticky.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wonton Soup
A classic Chinese comfort food, Wonton Soup is a savory and soothing meal that’s easy to prepare. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the pork filling 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 wonton.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Bring the chicken broth to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Add the wontons and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chow Mein
Get ready to savor the flavors of China with this easy-to-make Chow Mein recipe! This popular stir-fry dish is a staple in many Chinese restaurants and is now easily accessible at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked noodles (Chow Mein or soba)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, cabbage, carrots)
– 1 cup cooked chicken or beef, diced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; stir-fry until they start to soften.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add the cooked chicken or beef; stir-fry for another minute.
5. Add the noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry until everything is well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)
This classic Cantonese dish is a staple of Chinese cuisine, featuring tender pork glazed with a sweet and savory sauce. With this simple recipe, you can create an authentic Char Siu experience at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 5-star anise powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil.
3. Add the sliced pork, garlic, ginger, and anise powder (if using) to the marinade. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Scallion Pancakes
Scallion pancakes are a popular street food in China, made with a simple dough and scallions. This recipe brings the flavors of the street to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– 1 egg, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired pancake size.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Brush with vegetable oil and sprinkle with scallions.
6. Fold the dough in half to form a triangle or a square shape.
7. Cook in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Fish with Ginger and Soy
This Asian-inspired dish is a flavorful and healthy way to cook fish. The combination of ginger, soy sauce, and steaming creates a moist and aromatic final product.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white or fatty fish like cod or tilapia work well)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, water, and honey until well combined.
3. Place fish fillets in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Add sliced ginger to the steamer basket with the fish.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Dan Dan Noodles
Dan Dan noodles are a popular Chinese street food dish that combines the flavors of Sichuan peppercorns, chili oil, and fermented soybeans with springy noodles. This recipe is a simplified version of the classic dish that can be easily made at home.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (such as lo mein or soba)
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorn oil
– 1/4 cup fermented soybeans (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and Sichuan peppercorn oil until smooth.
3. Add fermented soybeans and stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked noodles to the sauce and toss until coated.
5. Top with chopped scallions and season with salt and pepper as desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tomato Egg Stir-Fry
This simple and flavorful stir-fry is a great way to start your day or fuel up for a busy afternoon. With just a few ingredients, you can have a nutritious and tasty meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions or soy sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and scramble them until they’re cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomato, thinly sliced onion, and a pinch of salt to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or soy sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chinese Cucumber Salad
A refreshing and light Chinese-inspired salad that’s perfect for hot summer days. This simple recipe combines the crunch of cucumbers with the savory flavors of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers (sliced into thin strips)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger (grated)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions (optional, chopped for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber strips, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
2. Toss gently to coat the cucumbers evenly with the mixture.
3. Drizzle sesame oil over the salad and toss again.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Red Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a staple in many Asian cuisines, with a rich flavor profile and velvety texture. With just a few simple ingredients, you can warm up to this delightful treat on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir well.
4. Add the soaked red beans and vegetable broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
5. Simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup to your desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Summary
Discover the rich flavors and aromas of Chinese cuisine with these 18 mouth-watering recipes perfect for beginners! From classic dishes like Kung Pao Chicken and Sweet and Sour Pork, to comforting favorites like Egg Fried Rice and Wonton Soup, this collection has something for everyone. With simple instructions and accessible ingredients, you’ll be whipping up delicious meals in no time. Explore the bold flavors of General Tso’s Chicken, the savory goodness of Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork), or the spicy kick of Dan Dan Noodles – there’s never been a better time to get cooking Chinese-style!