Are you craving for a flavorful and authentic Chinese cuisine but don’t know where to start? Look no further! Chinese cooking has evolved over centuries, with diverse regional flavors and techniques that can be easily adapted to suit your taste buds. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouth-watering easy Chinese recipes that will transport your senses to the bustling streets of Beijing, Shanghai, or Hong Kong.
From classic dishes like Egg Fried Rice and Sweet and Sour Chicken to comforting stir-fries like Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry and Scrambled Eggs with Tomatoes, our recipe collection has something for every palate. Whether you’re a Chinese food newbie or a seasoned chef, these recipes are designed to be easy to follow, quick to prepare, and bursting with flavor.
Stir-Fried Garlic Green Beans
Quickly cooking green beans with a flavorful garlic sauce makes this side dish a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds or chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil 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, until they start to soften.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and a pinch of salt. Pour the sauce over the green beans and continue stir-frying for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the beans are tender but still crisp.
5. Season with pepper to taste. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Egg Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, egg fried rice is a staple for any meal. This simple recipe brings together cooked rice, scrambled eggs, and savory vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the other half and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.
6. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes.
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors with this simple and delicious Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe. This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a crowd-pleaser, and can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix chicken with cornstarch.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through (5-7 minutes).
3. Remove chicken from skillet, then add onion and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Pour in sweet and sour sauce, and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add mixed bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
6. Return chicken to skillet and toss with sweet and sour mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mapo Tofu
Mapo tofu, a classic Sichuan dish, is a harmonious blend of silken tofu, ground pork, and aromatic spices. This recipe yields a bold, numbingly spicy flavor that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm or silken tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground pork and cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
3. Add garlic, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add tofu and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch.
6. Pour the mixture into the wok and stir until thickened.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a staple for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 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
– Cooked white rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining oil to the pan. Add garlic and broccoli; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to the pan and add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Scrambled Eggs with Tomatoes
A classic breakfast combo gets a flavorful boost from fresh tomatoes and a hint of basil.
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and scramble them until they’re almost set.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for another minute, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Scrambled eggs: 3-4 minutes
– Total cooking time: 5-6 minutes
Pork Dumplings
This recipe yields a batch of tender and flavorful pork dumplings that are perfect for a cozy dinner or a snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these delightful treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water for wrapping
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix until just combined.
2. Lay a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Place 1 tablespoon 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.
4. Fold the wrapper into a half-moon shape, making sure to seal the filling inside.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
Cooking:
– Pan-fry dumplings in 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
– Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kung Pao Chicken
Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Chinese dish that combines the bold flavors of peanuts, chili peppers, and soy sauce with tender chicken. This recipe is a quick and easy take on the original, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special 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
– 1/4 cup chili peppers (such as Szechuan or jalapeño), sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, peanuts, and chili peppers to the pan. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and add soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot and Sour Soup
Hot and Sour Soup Recipe
This classic Chinese soup is a staple of many Szechuan restaurants. Our recipe brings the bold flavors and spicy kick to your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened.
3. Add mushrooms and bamboo shoots; cook until tender.
4. Pour in broth and water; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes.
6. Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, salt, and pepper.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water.
8. Add mixture to soup and stir until thickened (optional).
9. Serve hot, garnished with beaten eggs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chow Mein
This quick and easy Chinese-inspired dish is a staple of Asian cuisine, packed with noodles, vegetables, and savory seasonings. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Chow Mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook Chow Mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
4. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spring Rolls
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these crispy and savory spring rolls! This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup cooked and shredded chicken or tofu
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, scallions, and cooked chicken or tofu.
2. Add soy sauce and sesame oil to the mixture; mix well.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper flat on a surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling 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.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Wonton Soup
A comforting and flavorful Chinese soup that’s easy to make and packed with delicate wontons filled with a savory mixture of pork and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon 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 the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place 1 tablespoon 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, pressing the edges together to seal the wonton.
4. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Gently add the wontons to the pot, making sure they’re not touching each other.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the wontons float to the surface.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of soy sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic Chinese-inspired dish that combines succulent chicken with crunchy cashews and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup unsalted cashews
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, cashews, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and ginger. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add chicken back to the pan and stir to combine with cashew mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple of simple yet flavorful cooking. Fresh fish, infused with the warmth of ginger and the pungency of scallions, makes for a delightful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), skin removed
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fish fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a steamer basket, arrange the fish fillets in a single layer.
3. Add sliced ginger and chopped scallions on top of the fish.
4. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Remove from heat, drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chinese Scallion Pancakes
Savory, crispy, and utterly delicious, Chinese scallion pancakes are a staple in many Asian cuisines. This recipe yields a batch of 8-10 pancakes that are perfect for snacking or serving as an accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Brush the edges with a little water and sprinkle chopped scallions in the center of each pancake.
7. Fold the pancake in half to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges together to seal.
8. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a wok or deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
9. Fry the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
10. Drain excess oil with paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)
This classic Chinese dish is a labor of love that yields tender, caramelized pork belly with a rich, savory sauce. With this recipe, you’ll be able to replicate the flavors and textures of a traditional Hong Kong-style braised pork belly.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 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
– 2 inches ginger, sliced
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add pork belly, garlic, ginger, and vegetable oil. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until pork is tender and sauce has thickened.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Slice and serve with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Tomato Egg Drop Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of eggs with the sweetness of tomatoes, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cook until softened.
2. Add chopped tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Crack eggs into the pot and stir gently until egg whites have set, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken
A classic Chinese-American dish, General Tso’s Chicken is a sweet and spicy stir-fry that will satisfy your cravings for a savory and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 cup General Tso’s sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch and chicken pieces.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and sauté the garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
6. Add the General Tso’s sauce and mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry until the sauce thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss with the sauce and vegetables.
8. Cook for an additional minute, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to savor the flavors of China with these 18 delicious and easy-to-make recipes! From classic stir-fries like Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry and Garlic Green Beans, to comforting soups like Hot and Sour Soup and Wonton Soup, this collection has something for everyone. Indulge in sweet and sour delights like Sweet and Sour Chicken and Cashew Chicken, or try your hand at traditional dishes like Pork Dumplings and Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou). Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these authentic Chinese recipes are sure to please.