The flavors of China – a culinary world that never fails to tantalize our taste buds. With its rich history, diverse regions, and centuries-old cooking traditions, Chinese cuisine offers endless possibilities for home cooks looking to try something new and exciting. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the most iconic and mouth-watering Chinese dishes, each with its own unique story and flavor profile.
From spicy Sichuan favorites like Kung Pao Chicken and Mapo Tofu, to Cantonese classics like Peking Duck and Dim Sum Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow), we’ll cover it all. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these 18 authentic Chinese recipes are sure to inspire your next cooking adventure.
Kung Pao Chicken
A classic Sichuan dish, Kung Pao Chicken is a spicy and savory stir-fry that combines crispy chicken, peanuts, and vegetables with a bold flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 2-3 dried red chilies, crushed or 1-2 teaspoons Szechuan peppercorns
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
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 wok.
3. Add garlic, onion, and bell peppers. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4 minutes.
4. Add peanuts, soy sauce, wine, cornstarch mixture, and crushed chilies. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Return chicken to wok. Stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mapo Tofu
Mapo tofu is a classic Chinese dish that combines the creamy texture of silken tofu with the bold flavors of Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil. This recipe brings together the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and umami notes to create a mouth-numbingly delicious experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 block silken tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup chili oil (or to taste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add the tofu; cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, cornstarch, and Sichuan peppercorns.
5. Pour the mixture over the tofu; stir-fry until the sauce thickens (1 minute).
6. Add chili oil to taste; stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Peking Duck
Experience the authentic flavors of China with this classic Peking duck recipe. A staple of Chinese cuisine, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its crispy skin and tender meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) whole duck
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
– Scallions, cut into thin strips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch.
3. Remove excess fat from the duck cavity and pour the marinade inside. Close the opening with kitchen twine.
4. Rub the outside of the duck with vegetable oil, garlic, and five-spice powder.
5. Roast the duck in the preheated oven 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 and serving with scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes per duck.
Hot and Sour Soup
This classic Chinese soup is a perfect combination of spicy and tangy flavors, with a variety of textures from the tofu and mushrooms. It’s a comforting and savory dish that’s easy to make and can be served as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons chopped scallions, for garnish
– 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, whisk together broth, water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, onion, mushrooms, and tofu. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with white pepper to taste.
5. Ladle into bowls and garnish with scallions and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)
A classic Cantonese dish, Char Siu is a sweet and savory barbecue pork that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 star anise pod
– 5-6 Chinese five-spice powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the pork on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or broiler pan.
6. Brush the pork with sesame oil and sprinkle with star anise pod and five-spice powder (if using).
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dim Sum Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow)
This recipe for Har Gow, a classic Cantonese dim sum dish, yields tender and flavorful shrimp dumplings wrapped in a delicate wonton wrapper. Perfect for serving at your next Asian-inspired gathering or as a light and satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until well combined.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean 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. 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. Cook dumplings by steaming for 8-10 minutes or pan-frying for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (steaming) or 4-6 minutes (pan-frying)
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a quick and easy way to get your daily dose of protein, veggies, and flavor. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 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 vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the broccoli and garlic; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return the cooked beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions (if desired) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pork
Sweet and Sour Pork Recipe
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the savory flavor of pork with the tangy sweetness of a sweet and sour sauce, all wrapped up in crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork loin or tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. Dredge pork pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 30 seconds.
4. Add pork to the wok and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet and sour sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil.
6. Pour the sauce over the pork and stir to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dan Dan Noodles
This recipe brings the bold flavors of Sichuan Province to your table with a spicy and savory take on noodles. Enjoy the harmonious balance of sweet, sour, and numbing sensations in each bite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound wheat flour noodles
– 2 tablespoons peanut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat peanut oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add chili bean paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked noodles to the wok and toss to combine with the sauce.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Wonton Soup
Wonton Soup Recipe: A Comforting Chinese Classic
This classic Chinese soup is a staple of comfort food, filled with tender wontons and savory broth. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the flavors of China in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic. Mix well.
2. Place a wonton wrapper on a clean 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. Press edges together to seal.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
6. Add wontons to the pot, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until wontons float to the surface.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Spring Rolls
Delight in the flavors of Asia with this classic spring rolls recipe. Crunchy on the outside and savory on the inside, these bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the produce section)
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (shredded carrots, cabbage, bean sprouts)
– 1/4 cup cooked and shredded chicken
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine mixed vegetables, cooked chicken, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you (like an arrowhead).
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. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (spring rolls are typically served raw)
General Tso’s Chicken
A classic Chinese-American dish, General Tso’s Chicken is a sweet and spicy stir-fry that combines crispy chicken with a tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1 cup General Tso’s sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch and salt. Add chicken and toss to coat.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned and cooked through.
4. Pour in General Tso’s sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. If desired, add red pepper flakes for extra spice.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Egg Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that’s quick, easy, and delicious! This recipe is a staple in many Asian households and can be customized to your taste with various vegetables and seasonings.
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
– Chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the 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; add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Pour in the beaten eggs; scramble them until cooked through, breaking into small pieces as they set.
5. Mix the eggs with the onion and garlic.
6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, stirring constantly to combine with the egg mixture.
7. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
8. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Ma Po Eggplant
Ma Po eggplant is a popular Chinese dish originating from Sichuan Province, known for its bold flavors and spicy kick. This recipe combines tender eggplant with a savory sauce made with fermented soybeans, chili peppers, and ground pork.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1/4 cup fermented soybean paste (doubanjiang)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 pound ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– Salt and white pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggplants into 1-inch cubes and salt them for 30 minutes. Rinse and pat dry.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add ground pork and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add fermented soybean paste, garlic, Sichuan peppercorns, salt, and white pepper. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Add eggplant cubes and stir-fry until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes.
Scallion Pancakes
Elevate your brunch game with these savory Scallion Pancakes, perfect for a weekend treat or quick breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 large scallion (green and white parts), finely chopped
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add chopped scallions, milk, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan with about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of batter into the oil, leaving space between each pancake.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain pancakes on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Enjoy your delicious Scallion Pancakes!
Red Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)
A classic Chinese dish, Red Braised Pork Belly is a tender and flavorful delight that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in. This recipe combines the rich flavors of soy sauce, sugar, and spices with the unctuous texture of slow-cooked pork belly.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Cut the pork belly into 2-inch pieces and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, and white pepper.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pork belly pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the braising liquid to the wok, cover, and transfer to the oven. Braise at 300°F (150°C) for 2 hours.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Chow Mein
This classic Chinese-American dish is a staple of takeout menus everywhere, but it’s easy to make at home with just a few ingredients. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork or beef
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 1 cup cooked noodles (chow mein noodles or rice noodles work well)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and ground meat, cooking until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked noodles and meat mixture. Toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions
A delicate and aromatic dish that showcases the flavors of ginger and scallions, perfectly complementing the freshness of fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket with boiling water.
2. Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Place the sliced ginger and chopped scallions on the bottom of the steamer basket.
4. Arrange the fish fillets on top of the ginger and scallions.
5. Drizzle soy sauce and water over the fish, making sure they’re evenly coated.
6. Steam the fish for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Discover the authentic flavors of China with these 18 delicious recipes. From spicy Kung Pao Chicken to savory Peking Duck, and from comforting Hot and Sour Soup to crispy Char Siu BBQ Pork, this collection has something for every palate. Try your hand at making Dim Sum Shrimp Dumplings or indulging in a hearty Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry. With a mix of classic dishes like Sweet and Sour Pork and modern twists like General Tso’s Chicken, you’ll be cooking up a storm with these Chinese food recipes.