What are the best Chinese dishes?
Chinese cuisine is renowned for its rich history, cultural diversity, and mouth-watering flavors. The country’s vast culinary landscape has given rise to an incredible array of dishes, each with its own unique character. A typical Chinese meal usually consists of three to four courses, featuring a medley of noodles, rice, meats, and vegetables. One of the most distinctive aspects of Chinese cuisine is the emphasis on harmony between colors, textures, and flavors.
Some of the most beloved and iconic Chinese dishes include Hotpot, a communal dining experience that involves simmering ingredients in a savory broth. Then there’s Chow mein, a stir-fry masterpiece featuring noodles, meat or seafood, and an assortment of vegetables. Sichuan Pork is another crowd-pleaser, with its tender slices of pork cooked to perfection using a special egg white and starch coating.
Other notable mentions include Spring rolls, crispy fried or steamed pastries filled with savory or sweet fillings. Dim sum, bite-sized morsels of dough stuffed with vegetables or meat, are perfect for snacking. Finally, Dumplings, a comforting treat consisting of minced meat and chopped veggies wrapped in a delicate wrapper, can be enjoyed as an appetizer or dessert.
What Chinese dishes are healthy?
While Chinese takeout can be a quick and satisfying fix for cravings, it’s not always the healthiest option due to its reliance on oil, salt, sugar, and processed additives. Fortunately, there are many delicious and healthy Chinese dishes that can be easily prepared at home using wholesome ingredients. For instance, steamed dumplings filled with meat and vegetables offer a tasty and nutritious alternative to fried varieties.
Spring rolls, too, can be made with a variety of fillings such as vegetables, shrimp, or meat and cooked to perfection without deep-frying. Other healthy options include stir-fried dishes like chop suey, which combines eggs, meat, and sliced veggies in a flavorful and filling meal. And for a classic combination that’s both easy to make and nutritious, try pairing beef or chicken with broccoli for a protein-packed and satisfying dish. So, how do you go about making Chinese food at home?
The key is to have the right ingredients on hand, including staples like garlic, ginger, onions, sliced veggies, soy sauce, and sesame oil. With these essentials, you can whip up a variety of dishes using techniques like steaming, deep-frying, and stir-frying, which typically take only minutes to prepare. Start by making a simple fried rice dish with peas, shrimp, soy sauce, egg, and frozen veggies, then pair it with some steamed dumplings or spring rolls for a well-rounded meal.
Healthy Chinese recipes
What sets Chinese cuisine apart from others is its passion for incorporating a wide variety of vegetables into its dishes. For those seeking an authentic and flavorful Chinese culinary experience without leaving home, this array of healthy recipes offers the perfect solution.
Tasty and Easy Chinese Scallion Oil Noodles
While Chinese scallion oil noodles may appear deceptively simple, they are actually a masterclass in coaxing out the inherent flavors of each component. The foundation of this dish lies in the slow-cooking process, where scallions are gently simmered in oil to unlock their aromatic essence. This fragrant infusion is then skillfully combined with your chosen noodles and a judicious amount of sauce, resulting in a harmonious balance that belies its straightforward preparation.
Lo Mai Gai – Dim Sum Sticky Rice Lotus Leaf Wraps
The revered Lo Mai Gai is a staple of Cantonese cuisine, comprising a harmonious blend of glutinous rice, succulent chicken, earthy mushrooms, and other savory delights all wrapped in the fragrant, crispy lotus leaves. Though it may require a bit more time and effort to prepare, the end result is well worth the investment, making it an ideal candidate for freezing and savoring at a later date.
Chinese Meat Pie (Xian Bing) – Popular Sichuan Food
Wrapped in a crispy, golden-brown crust, the traditional Chinese Xian Bing meat pie conceals a depth of flavor within its savory filling. While regional variations abound, the beef and onion-filled iteration proves to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a rich and satisfying taste experience that’s both familiar and exciting.
Traditional Chinese Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Bean Sauce
In many Chinese households, Chinese steamed spare ribs with black bean sauce is a treasured family favorite that’s just as beloved at dim sum gatherings. This delectable dish boasts an impressive array of flavors, making it a comforting and satisfying home-cooked meal option that’s incredibly quick to prepare.
The combination of pungent garlic and the savory, slightly salty essence of fermented black beans imbues the ribs with a rich, bold taste that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Chinese Eggplants with Garlic Sauce for Vegan Dinner
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Chinese eggplants without leaving your kitchen! This quick vegan dinner is a game-changer, as it transforms these humble vegetables into a spicy masterpiece that rivals takeout. The magic happens when you sauté the eggplants with oil, ginger, garlic, and chili, then serve them atop steaming hot rice for a stunning meal that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Char Siu (叉燒) – Popular Chinese BBQ Pork
Savoring the rich flavors of char siu, it’s no surprise why this delectable dish has become an integral part of Chinese cuisine. The harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes not only makes it a delight to devour on its own but also elevates the taste of various accompaniments like noodles, rice, and char siu bao. This succulent pork dish is truly a culinary gem that’s sure to tantalize your senses.
Amazing Soy Sauce Pan Fried Noodles
While often served as a accompaniment to savory meat and vegetable dishes or steamed dim sum, Cantonese soy sauce noodles stand proudly on their own as a delicious, no-frills option. The humble dish offers a comforting experience, perfect for those seeking a simple yet satisfying meal.
Easy Chicken Stir Fry – Traditional Chinese Food
Transforming your evening routine into a culinary masterpiece has never been easier! This effortless Chicken Stir Fry is a crowd-pleaser that’s easily adaptable to the changing seasons. With its straightforward recipe and versatility in incorporating diverse vegetables, you can confidently expect a mouth-watering meal every time.
Try Sweet & Sour Chicken (Gluten-Free, Paleo, Allergy-Free)
Indulge in a healthier take on the beloved Sweet & Sour Chicken recipe. This homemade version is not only quick to prepare but also easy on the palate. As an added bonus, it’s gluten-free, paleo-friendly, and free from common allergens, making it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions. By cooking the dish in a wok or skillet without frying, you’ll enjoy a lighter take on this classic flavor combination.
The crowning glory is the naturally sweetened sauce, which adds a sticky and indulgent touch to each bite.
Classic Vegetable Fried Rice (Gluten-Free, Vegan, Allergy-Free) for Healthy Lunch or Dinner
Ditch the takeout menu and whip up a batch of Classic Vegetable Fried Rice instead! This easy-to-make recipe is not only gluten-free, vegan-friendly, but also free from the top 8 common allergens. The best part? It’s a nutrient-packed powerhouse that can be transformed into a satisfying lunch or dinner using leftover rice.
Quick and Easy Spiralized Chinese Egg Roll in a Bowl
Indulge in the authentic taste and convenience of traditional Chinese egg rolls with this simple and adaptable recipe. This version offers a low-carb, gluten-free, and potentially soy-free twist, allowing you to enjoy the classic flavors without the usual hassle.
Make at Home Chicken Chow Mein Recipe
Ditch the takeout menu and discover the convenience of cooking up a delicious homemade Chicken Chow Mein. This quick and effortless recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, providing all the rich flavors and satisfying comfort you crave without ever having to leave your doorstep.
Egg Roll in a Bowl – Vegan Chinese Food
Transforming family favorites to align with a new diet can be an exhilarating yet daunting task. A vegan rendition of the cherished ‘Egg Roll in a Bowl’ is one such example, where plant-based substitutes cleverly replace traditional meat, preserving the essence of the original by incorporating cabbage, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and green onions – all the signature flavors that make this dish so endearing.
Delicious Vegan Teriyaki Chickpea Bowl
Indulge in the rich flavors of Asia without compromising on your vegan lifestyle. This teriyaki chickpea bowl is a game-changer, combining the savory goodness of Chinese takeout with the wholesome goodness of roasted frozen broccoli and fluffy rice. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying meal option that will become a staple in your daily repertoire.
Simple Gluten Free Stir Fry Beef and Broccoli
Discover the vibrant world of Asian cuisine without compromising on dietary restrictions. A quick and easy beef and broccoli stir-fry can be yours in just 20 minutes, perfect for a bustling weeknight. This gluten-free delight requires minimal effort, making it an ideal solution for busy schedules.
Homemade Hot and Spicy Pot Sticker
Healthy and Easy Chinese Vegetable Soup (From Scratch)
Indulge in the wholesome goodness of this effortless Chinese vegetable soup, a revitalized take on a timeless favorite. This delectable creation boasts a winning combination of flavors, effortlessly outdoing its canned counterpart to delight both young and old.
General Tso’s Cauliflower with Fresh Ginger, Garlic and Red Pepper
Indulge in the savory goodness of General Tso’s Cauliflower, an innovative vegetarian twist on traditional takeout. By marrying the humble head of cauliflower with a rich, aromatic sauce infused with the warmth of fresh ginger, pungency of garlic, and subtle kick from red pepper flakes, this dish elevates the everyday vegetable into a mouthwatering meatless masterpiece.
Vegetarian Thai Basil Tofu Stir Fry (Pad Krapow)
Savor the essence of Thailand with this effortless vegetarian delight: Tofu Pad Krapow. This mouthwatering stir-fry combines the creaminess of ground tofu, pungency of garlic and ginger, and crunch of mixed vegetables, all bathed in a delectable soy sauce that balances spicy and savory notes.
Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Indulge in the flavors of PF Chang’s with our simplified recipe for 20-minute Asian chicken lettuce wraps. A symphony of ground chicken and savory hoisin and soy sauce comes together to create a light yet satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion. Inspired by the culinary masterpieces found on Chinese menus, these refreshing wraps are an authentic take on traditional cuisine.
Instructions
Indulge in a culinary journey with our selection of healthy Chinese recipes. Browse through the mouth-watering dishes and click on the link below each photo to gain access to the full recipe and step-by-step instructions. Don’t forget to share your own creations by posting a photo under my pin on Pinterest!