Are you a foodie looking to shed some pounds? Do you love Chinese cuisine but worry that it’s not conducive to your weight loss goals? Think again! With these 18 delicious and nutritious Chinese recipes, you can enjoy the flavors of China while still reaching your weight loss targets.
Chinese cooking is all about balance and harmony, which makes it a great fit for a healthy diet. By incorporating more vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your meals, you can create dishes that are not only tasty but also good for you. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the best of Chinese cooking while keeping calorie counts in check.
From classic stir-fries to soups, salads, and noodle dishes, these recipes cater to a range of tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re a vegetarian or vegan, gluten-free or low-carb, there’s something for everyone. So go ahead, indulge in the bold flavors and aromas of China, knowing that every bite is helping you achieve your weight loss goals.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes, including Steamed Ginger Soy Salmon with Bok Choy, Sichuan-Style Spicy Cucumber Salad, Garlic Green Beans with Almonds, and many more!
Steamed Ginger Soy Salmon with Bok Choy
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of ginger, soy sauce, and garlic to create a succulent salmon dish paired with tender bok choy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp freshly grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups bok choy, cleaned and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket with 2-3 inches of water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.
3. Place salmon fillets in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each fillet.
4. Brush the soy-ginger mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Add bok choy to the steamer basket, placing it around the salmon.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Sichuan-Style Spicy Cucumber Salad
Sichuan-Style Spicy Cucumber Salad: A refreshing and spicy twist on traditional cucumber salad, perfect for hot summer days!
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon chili oil (or more to taste)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and toasted peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices and toasted Sichuan peppercorns.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil, and sesame oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and toasted peanuts if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Garlic Green Beans with Almonds
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines tender green beans with the richness of garlic and crunchy almonds. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the green beans, sprinkling with minced garlic and salt to taste.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
7. If desired, squeeze a tablespoon of lemon juice over the green beans.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Stir-Fried Shrimp with Snow Peas and Mushrooms
A quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp, crunchy snow peas, and earthy mushrooms. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 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 the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the snow peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until tender-crisp.
4. Add the garlic, shrimp, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Braised Tofu with Shiitake Mushrooms
This recipe combines the creamy texture of braised tofu with the earthy flavor of shiitake mushrooms, creating a delicious and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 cups mixed shiitake mushrooms, sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and vegetable broth to the pan. Stir to combine.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Wonton Soup with Spinach and Lean Pork
This classic Chinese soup is a comforting and nutritious meal option. With the addition of spinach and lean pork, this recipe provides a boost of protein and iron.
Ingredients:
– 1 package wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground lean pork
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until just combined.
2. Lay out 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 the edges together to seal the wonton.
4. Bring chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. Add the wontons to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
5. Stir in chopped spinach and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kung Pao Chicken with Zucchini Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this easy and healthy twist on traditional Kung Pao Chicken. This recipe combines crispy chicken, crunchy peanuts, and spicy peppers with zucchini noodles for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups zucchini noodles (zoodles)
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced green onions
– 1-2 dried red chilies, crushed or 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook zucchini noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a wok or large skillet, combine chicken, peanuts, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, red bell pepper, and green onions. Cook until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
3. Add cornstarch mixture and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes to thicken the sauce.
4. Add crushed chilies or sriracha sauce (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve Kung Pao Chicken over zucchini noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clear Broth Hot and Sour Soup
This classic Chinese soup is a staple of many Asian cuisines, with its harmonious balance of hot and sour flavors and crystal-clear broth. This simple recipe makes it easy to recreate this comforting dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together broth, water, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
2. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, white pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk to combine.
3. Add mushrooms, garlic, and tofu. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of white pepper if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Scallion Ginger Steamed Fish
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of fish with the pungency of scallions and ginger, perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. With minimal ingredients and effort, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, such as cod or tilapia)
– 1/2 cup sliced scallions
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together scallions, ginger, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Place the fish fillets in the steamer basket and brush the top with the scallion-ginger mixture.
4. Steam the fish for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Vegetable Lo Mein with Whole Wheat Noodles
This recipe combines the flavors of Asia with the nutrition of whole wheat noodles, creating a satisfying and healthy meal option. With a variety of colorful vegetables and savory sauce, you’ll be enjoying this lo mein in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 package whole wheat lo mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook whole wheat 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; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour sauce over vegetables and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked noodles with vegetable mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Miso-Glazed Eggplant with Sesame Seeds
Miso-Glazed Eggplant with Sesame Seeds: A sweet and savory twist on traditional eggplant recipes, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with the miso glaze.
4. Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the eggplant.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Oyster Sauce
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple of any stir-fry enthusiast’s repertoire. With its bold flavors, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 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.
3. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.
4. Add the broccoli, garlic, oyster sauce, and soy sauce to the wok.
5. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
6. Return the chicken to the wok and stir-fry for another minute, combining with the broccoli mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lotus Root Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of lotus root with a tangy and sweet honey lime dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized lotus root, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, lotus root slices, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and lime juice until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese on top (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spinach and Egg Drop Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Spinach and Egg Drop Soup, perfect for any time of the year. This classic Chinese-inspired soup is made rich and creamy with spinach, eggs, and chicken broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a simmer in a medium pot.
2. Crack the eggs into a small bowl and whisk lightly.
3. Slowly pour the eggs into the simmering broth, stirring constantly with a spoon to create thin, egg-drop-like strands.
4. Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Pepper Beef with Bell Peppers
This recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make stir-fry that combines tender beef strips with crunchy bell peppers and a kick of black pepper. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: soy sauce and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and bell peppers to the pan and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until tender.
4. Return the beef to the pan and add black pepper. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with soy sauce and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Dumplings with Lean Turkey Filling
Steamed Dumplings with Lean Turkey Filling: A Delicious and Healthy Twist on a Classic Dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1 pound ground turkey breast, lean
– 1/2 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the turkey filling in the center of the wrapper.
3. 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 the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. To steam the dumplings, place them in a single layer in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Stir-Fried Cauliflower Rice with Edamame
A healthy and flavorful twist on traditional rice dishes, this recipe uses cauliflower “rice” instead of grains, paired with protein-rich edamame. Perfect as a side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 cup of edamame (frozen or fresh)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the edamame, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the edamame is tender.
4. Add the cauliflower “rice” to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional 5-7 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Lentil Congee with Garlic Chives
This comforting congee recipe is a perfect remedy for a chilly day or whenever you need a warm, nourishing meal. Made with red lentils and aromatic garlic chives, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with protein-rich goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh garlic chives
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Add the lentils, water or broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the chopped garlic chives.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional garlic chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summary
Looking to lose weight while still enjoying delicious and authentic Chinese flavors? This article has got you covered! Discover 18 mouth-watering recipes that are not only healthy but also packed with flavor. From Steamed Ginger Soy Salmon with Bok Choy to Stir-Fried Cauliflower Rice with Edamame, these dishes offer a variety of options for weight loss. With lean proteins, colorful vegetables, and nutritious grains, you’ll be on your way to a slimmer, healthier version of yourself. Get cooking and start your weight loss journey today!
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