When it comes to exploring the world of international cuisine, few cultures have had a greater impact on global food trends than China. With a rich culinary history dating back thousands of years, Chinese cooking has evolved into a diverse and vibrant tapestry of flavors, textures, and aromas. From spicy Szechuan dishes to delicate Cantonese dim sum, there’s no shortage of mouth-watering options to try. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 18 authentic and easy-to-make Chinese recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for some new inspiration in the kitchen, these classic dishes are sure to become instant favorites. So let’s get cooking!
Kung Pao Chicken
A spicy Sichuan dish originating from China, Kung Pao chicken is a flavorful and savory meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts or cashews
– 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
– 1/4 cup chili peppers, diced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. In the same pan, add the garlic, ginger, peanuts, scallions, and chili peppers. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mapo Tofu
Mapo tofu is a classic Sichuan dish that combines the creamy texture of tofu with the bold flavors of chili peppers, garlic, and fermented soybeans. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional dish, perfect for those who want to experience the spicy kick without too much complexity.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fermented soybean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup chili bean paste (Liangfen)
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and stir-fry for 10 seconds.
3. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together doubanjiang, Sichuan peppercorns, and chili bean paste.
5. Add the mixture to the wok and stir-fry for 1 minute.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peking Duck
Experience the classic flavors of China with this iconic dish, Peking Duck. This recipe yields a crispy-skinned, juicy duck that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole duck (3-4 lbs), patted dry
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp five-spice powder
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 scallions, cut into thin strips
– 4 pancakes (or crepes)
– Dipping sauces: hoisin sauce, chili flakes, and sliced cucumbers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, 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 per pound, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
6. Let the duck rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing it thinly.
7. Serve with pancakes, scallions, hoisin sauce, chili flakes, and sliced cucumbers.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
Hot and Sour Soup
A classic Chinese soup that combines the perfect balance of spicy and sour flavors, Hot and Sour Soup is a comforting and savory dish that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together water, chicken broth, soy sauce, vinegar, and cornstarch.
5. Add the mixture to the pot; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dim Sum Shrimp Dumplings
Savor the tender goodness of these shrimp-filled dumplings, a classic Chinese dim sum favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup cooked and chilled shrimp
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water for steaming
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked shrimp, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
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.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
5. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling, making sure they are tight but not too tight.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Steam dumplings over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
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)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
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 pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and broccoli. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pork
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this classic Chinese-inspired dish! Sweet and sour pork is a mouthwatering combination of crispy-fried pork, tangy sweet and sour sauce, and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or boneless pork loin, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together cornstarch, vegetable oil, garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar.
2. Add the pork pieces and toss until coated; set aside for 15 minutes.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the pork and cook until browned and crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Remove the pork from the pan, leaving any remaining juices behind.
6. Add mixed vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
7. Return the pork to the pan, pour in sweet and sour sauce, and stir until coated.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Spring Rolls
Spring rolls are a classic Asian snack that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or dessert. This recipe yields crispy and flavorful spring rolls filled with a sweet and savory mixture of vegetables, shrimp, and noodles.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, cabbage, bean sprouts)
– 1/2 cup cooked and shelled shrimp
– 1/4 cup cooked rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 package spring roll wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together vegetables, shrimp, noodles, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and salt.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you.
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 to form a tight cylinder.
5. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Fry spring rolls in batches until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per batch).
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)
A classic Cantonese dish, Char Siu is a sweet and savory pork barbeque that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 tsp white pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, five-spice powder, and white pepper.
3. Add the pork pieces to the marinade and mix until coated.
4. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dan Dan Noodles
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of Sichuan cuisine, featuring a savory and spicy sauce served over noodles. 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 rice noodles)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili oil
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili oil, vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
3. Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and toss with the sauce until well coated.
4. Top with chopped scallions and peanuts (if using).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Egg Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that’s quick, easy, and delicious, egg fried rice is a staple in many Asian cuisines. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rice and adding some protein-packed eggs to make a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and/or cooked chicken or shrimp for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan, cooking until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, stirring to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stir in the scrambled eggs and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until everything is well combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Wonton Soup
A classic Chinese soup that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe yields a delicious and comforting bowl of wontons swimming in a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup of finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup of finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup of ground pork or chicken
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
2. Meanwhile, combine the chopped cabbage, scallions, ground pork or chicken, and garlic in a bowl.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface and place a small spoonful of the filling mixture in the center.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
5. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Add the wontons to the boiling broth and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Season with soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken
General Tso’s Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish that combines crispy fried chicken with a sweet and spicy sauce. This recipe brings the flavors of this iconic dish right to your doorstep.
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
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss until coated.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add garlic, ginger, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Add chicken back into the wok and toss until coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Scallion Pancakes
These savory pancakes are flavored with scallions and perfect as a side dish or snack. They’re easy to make and can be served hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup scallions, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the chopped scallions and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the water to form a dough.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a pancake shape.
7. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
8. Fry the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
9. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ma Po Eggplant
A classic Sichuan dish, Ma Po eggplant is a spicy and savory stir-fry that combines the tender texture of eggplant with the bold flavors of beef, chili peppers, and fermented soybeans.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 tablespoon fermented soybeans (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup chili bean paste (Lao Gan Ma)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the eggplant cubes and cook until they start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef, garlic, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, and fermented soybeans. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add the chili bean paste and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Hot Pot
Enjoy the warmth and camaraderie of a traditional Chinese hot pot experience with this simple recipe. Gather friends and family around the table to cook up a flavorful and satisfying meal together.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef or pork slices (or combination)
– 1 lb vegetables of your choice (e.g., lotus root, bok choy, mushrooms, carrots)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (optional)
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Noodles or rice for serving
– Condiments: chili flakes, ginger, garlic
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil.
2. Add chicken broth, soy sauce, sake (if using), and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
3. Arrange beef or pork slices on a platter for dipping.
4. Add vegetables to the pot in batches, cooking until tender.
5. Serve cooked noodles or rice alongside the hot pot.
6. Enjoy dipping and cooking with friends!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of Cantonese cuisine, showcasing the harmonious union of tender fish, aromatic ginger, and pungent scallions. With minimal ingredients and effort, this recipe yields a dish that’s both elegant and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb white fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into 4-6 pieces
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Place the fish pieces in the steamer, leaving some space between each piece.
3. Add sliced ginger and chopped scallions on top of the fish.
4. Pour soy sauce and water mixture evenly over the ingredients.
5. Cover the steamer and steam for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Red Bean Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day, this Red Bean Soup is made with simple ingredients and minimal fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked and drained red beans, water, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to desired consistency. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend, then return to the pot.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Summary
Discover the bold flavors of China with these 18 authentic and easy recipes. From spicy Kung Pao Chicken to tender Peking Duck, and from savory Mapo Tofu to comforting Hot and Sour Soup, there’s something for every taste bud. Try your hand at making delicate Dim Sum Shrimp Dumplings or crispy Spring Rolls. Explore the richness of Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork) or the simplicity of Egg Fried Rice. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to delight and inspire.