When it comes to exploring the flavors and cuisine of China, there’s no shortage of delicious dishes to try. With a rich history and diversity of regional cooking styles, Chinese food has something for everyone. From spicy Szechuan dishes to delicate Cantonese dim sum, the options are endless.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 authentic Chinese recipes that showcase the best of the country’s culinary traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to try new flavors, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Beijing, the tranquil gardens of Shanghai, and the scenic countryside of Guangxi.
From classic dishes like Kung Pao Chicken and Peking Duck to lesser-known favorites like Mapo Tofu and Dan Dan Noodles, we’ll be exploring it all. So grab your wok, sharpen your knife, and get ready to dive into the wonderful world of Chinese cuisine!
Kung Pao Chicken
This spicy Sichuan dish is a staple of Chinese cuisine, with crispy chicken, peanuts, and chili peppers creating a bold flavor profile. With its moderate level of spiciness, Kung Pao Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup peanuts or cashews
– 1/4 cup chili peppers (Sichuan or red bell), sliced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a wok or large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. Add garlic, ginger, peanuts, and chili peppers to the wok. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Stir in soy sauce, wine, and cornstarch mixture. Bring to a boil.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the wok and stir-fry until coated with sauce.
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 Sichuan dish that combines the creamy texture of silken tofu with the bold flavors of chili peppers and fermented soybeans. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional dish, perfect for those looking to explore the spicy and savory world of Sichuan cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of silken tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 tablespoon of fermented soybeans (doubanjiang)
– 1 teaspoon of ground Sichuan peppercorns
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
– Salt and white pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, onion, and Sichuan peppercorns. Stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the tofu, soybeans, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any large pieces of tofu.
4. Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peking Duck
Experience the classic Chinese culinary delight with this simple recipe for Peking Duck. This iconic dish requires some preparation time, but the end result is well worth the effort.
Hot and Sour Soup
A classic Chinese soup that combines the spicy kick of chili peppers with the tanginess of soy sauce, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is quick and easy to make, packed with flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, mushrooms, and cabbage; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add tofu and broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, white pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using); season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Dim Sum Shrimp Dumplings
A classic Cantonese dish, these shrimp dumplings are a staple of dim sum cuisine. With their delicate wrappers and succulent fillings, they’re sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine shrimp, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 teaspoon 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.
4. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling, making sure there are no air pockets.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
Cooking Time:
– Steaming: 8-10 minutes
– Pan-frying: 2-3 minutes per side
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Savor the flavors of this classic Asian-inspired dish with tender beef and crisp broccoli, all stir-fried to perfection in a savory sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
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.
3. Add the broccoli and garlic; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour into the skillet.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute, coating with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pork
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines crispy pork, tangy sweet and sour sauce, and crunchy vegetables. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or pork chops, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Dredge pork pieces in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Dip floured pork in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
3. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook pork until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Add sweet and sour sauce; stir to combine.
6. Add bell peppers; cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chow Mein
Quickly stir-fry noodles with vegetables and your choice of protein for a delicious and satisfying Chinese-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chow mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast or tofu, diced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until tender, about 2 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender.
4. Add cooked chicken or tofu; stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); stir to combine.
6. Add cooked noodles; stir-fry for about 2 minutes, until well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spring Rolls
Spring rolls are a classic Asian-inspired snack or appetizer that can be easily made at home. With this simple recipe, you’ll be enjoying crispy and flavorful spring rolls in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or international aisle)
– 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup cooked and shredded chicken or pork
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup grated carrots
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Thaw the spring roll wrappers according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix together cabbage, chicken or pork, scallions, and carrots.
3. Place a wrapper on a flat surface and place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the spring rolls until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)
Char Siu, a popular Cantonese dish, is a sweet and savory BBQ-style pork that’s a staple in Chinese cuisine. This recipe yields tender, caramelized meat with a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or butt, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground white pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wonton Soup
Wonton Soup Recipe
A classic Chinese soup that’s perfect for any occasion, this Wonton Soup recipe is a delicious and comforting treat. With a flavorful broth and tender wontons filled with savory pork, you’ll be in for a treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken or pork broth
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 wonton wrappers
– 1/4 cup ground pork
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the ground pork, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using).
4. Place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful of the pork mixture in the center.
5. Fold the wrapper into a triangle, pressing the edges to seal.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Add the wontons to the pot with the onion mixture; cook for 3-4 minutes or until they float.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Egg Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, egg fried rice is a staple for any meal or snack.
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 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 2 minutes.
3. Push the onion to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs with the onion.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry the rice for about 2-3 minutes, incorporating the soy sauce and seasonings as needed.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this classic Chinese-American dish! General Tso’s Chicken is a sweet and spicy stir-fry that combines crispy chicken, savory sauce, and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, and yellow)
– 1/4 cup General Tso’s sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss until coated.
2. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp oil. Stir-fry garlic, ginger, and bell peppers for 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in General Tso’s sauce and stir to combine. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss until coated with sauce.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Scallion Pancakes
These Scallion Pancakes are a popular Chinese street food, known as Cong You Bing in Mandarin. With their crispy exterior and savory interior, they’re perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup scallions (green onions), thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
2. Add salt and mix well.
3. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces.
6. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
7. Brush the surface with a little water and sprinkle with scallions.
8. Fry the pancakes in hot oil (about 350°F) for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Dan Dan Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of China’s Sichuan province with this classic Dan Dan Noodle recipe, featuring a savory and spicy sauce. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound noodles (such as soba or rice noodles)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorn oil (or substitute with toasted sesame oil)
– 1/4 cup chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add soy sauce, Sichuan peppercorn oil (or sesame oil), and chili bean paste; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Combine cooked noodles with the spicy sauce; toss to coat.
5. Top with scallions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salt and Pepper Shrimp
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a simple yet flavorful way to prepare shrimp. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together salt, black pepper, and cornstarch.
2. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the salt mixture.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
4. Add the garlic (if using) and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the coated shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as steamed vegetables or rice.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Steamed Bao Buns
These soft and fluffy bao buns are a staple of Chinese cuisine, perfect for serving with your favorite fillings. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these tender treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add in the warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Brush the tops with vegetable oil and steam the buns for 12 minutes.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Szechuan Beef
This recipe for Szechuan beef is a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional Chinese dishes, featuring tender beef strips cooked in a savory sauce with the perfect balance of sweet and heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1/4 cup chili flakes (optional)
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, cornstarch, and sugar.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add soy sauce mixture to pan and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens.
5. Return beef to pan and cook until coated in the sauce. Season with chili flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Green Beans
Quickly elevate your meals with this easy recipe that combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the pungency of garlic. This flavorful side dish is perfect for accompanying your favorite proteins or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss green beans with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the green bean mixture on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lo Mein with Vegetables
Quickly stir-fry a medley of colorful vegetables and noodles for a satisfying and flavorful meal. This recipe combines the classic Chinese dish with a variety of fresh vegetables, creating a nutritious and delicious option.
Ingredients:
– 1 package lo mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add mixed bell peppers, broccoli, mushrooms, and onion. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add garlic and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Add cooked lo mein noodles to the wok and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the bold flavors and aromas of China’s rich culinary heritage! This article presents 20 authentic Chinese recipes that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Beijing, Shanghai, and beyond. From classic Kung Pao Chicken and Mapo Tofu to comforting Wonton Soup and Egg Fried Rice, these dishes showcase the diversity and complexity of Chinese cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just discovering the joys of Chinese cooking, this collection of recipes is sure to delight and inspire.
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