Discover the Flavors of China with These Authentic Recipes!
When it comes to cooking, few cuisines can rival the rich flavors and vibrant culture of Chinese food. From spicy Sichuan dishes to delicate Cantonese dim sum, the possibilities are endless in this culinary wonderland. But for home cooks, navigating the complexities of traditional Chinese recipes can be daunting – where do you even start? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 delicious and authentic Chinese recipes that will transport your taste buds to the Far East. From classic dishes like Kung Pao Chicken and Mapo Tofu, to regional specialties like Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings) and Twice-Cooked Pork, these recipes are sure to delight even the most discerning palates. So grab your wok and let’s get cooking!
Kung Pao Chicken
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of Sichuan cuisine, characterized by its bold flavors and spicy kick. With just the right balance of sweet, sour, salty, and umami notes, Kung Pao chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup roasted peanuts or cashews
– 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 tbsp chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 dried red chilies, crushed or 1-2 tsp Sichuan peppercorns, toasted
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. In the same pan, add garlic, onion, peanuts, scallions, soy sauce, cornstarch, chili bean paste, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken back into the pan and stir-fry until coated with the sauce.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with crushed red chilies or toasted Sichuan peppercorns.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mapo Tofu
A classic Sichuan dish that combines the savory flavor of tofu with the bold heat of chili peppers and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm 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 bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1 teaspoon of Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the garlic and onion, stir-frying until they are translucent.
3. Add the tofu, stirring to coat with the oil and spices.
4. Add the fermented bean paste, Sichuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes, stirring well.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the tofu is coated in the sauce.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peking Duck
This iconic dish has been a staple of Chinese cuisine for centuries, and its crispy-skinned, juicy duck is sure to impress. With this recipe, you can recreate the flavors and textures that have made Peking Duck a beloved favorite around the world.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole duck (3-4 lbs)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 scallions, cut into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
3. Rub the mixture all over the duck, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the duck on a wire rack set over a roasting pan, breast side up.
5. Roast for 30 minutes, then brush with vegetable oil and continue roasting for another 20-25 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
6. Garnish with scallions, garlic, and five-spice powder before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Hot and Sour Soup
Hot and Sour Soup Recipe
A classic Chinese soup that combines savory and sour flavors, this Hot and Sour Soup is a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vinegar (apple cider or white)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1/4 cup tofu, cut into small cubes
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and tofu. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until mushrooms are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)
A classic Cantonese dish, Char Siu is a sweet and savory BBQ pork recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 star anise pod
– 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), hoisin sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 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 strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dan Dan Noodles
Dan Dan Noodles is a popular Chinese dish that originated from the Sichuan province. This recipe combines the flavors of chili oil, soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame paste to create a savory and spicy noodle dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup noodles (rice or wheat)
– 2 tablespoons chili oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame paste
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and toasted peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together chili oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame paste, and ground ginger.
3. Add the sauce mixture to the cooked noodles and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and toasted peanuts (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)
These delicate soup dumplings from Shanghai are a culinary delight. Xiaolongbao is a traditional Chinese dish that requires patience and skill, but with this recipe, you can achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Pork fat or vegetable oil for wrapping
Filling:
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water and mix until dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into small balls.
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
5. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
7. Cook Xiaolongbao in boiling water for 10-12 minutes or steam until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Twice-Cooked Pork
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of Sichuan cuisine, where pork belly is slow-cooked to tender perfection and then crisped up for an addictive texture. With its rich flavor profile and satisfying crunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Add pork cubes and toss until coated.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook pork for 5 minutes, until browned.
4. Remove pork from wok and set aside. In the same wok, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add garlic, ginger, and five-spice powder; cook for 30 seconds.
5. Return pork to wok and stir to combine with aromatics. Cover and braise for 2 hours, or until pork is tender.
6. Increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Remove pork from braising liquid and pat dry. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pork
Sweet and Sour Pork Recipe
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a crowd-pleaser, with tender pork, crispy vegetables, and a tangy sweet and sour sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork chops, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow), sliced
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove pork from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add sliced bell peppers to the pan; stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Stir in sweet and sour sauce and cooked pork; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions (if using).
8. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total.
Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)
A classic Chinese dish, Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou) is a rich and savory delight that’s perfect for special occasions. This recipe yields tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly with a deep, caramel-like glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, sliced
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat oil over medium-high heat.
3. Brown pork belly on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
4. Add garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and cornstarch mixture. Stir until smooth.
6. Return pork belly to the pot; cover and braise for 2 hours, or until tender.
7. Remove from heat; let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Scallion Pancakes
Scallion Pancakes: A Crispy and Savory Delight
These crispy scallion pancakes are a popular Chinese street food that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or side dish. With their savory flavor and crunchy texture, they’re perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup scallions (green onions), finely chopped
– 1/4 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Add chopped scallions and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add water to form a dough.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
6. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into a pancake shape.
7. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
8. Fry the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
9. Drain excess oil and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Wonton Soup
Wonton Soup Recipe
Summary:
This classic Chinese soup is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious broth filled with tender wontons.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Bring the chicken broth, water, soy sauce, and white pepper to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the wonton wrappers, one by one, to the pot.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the wontons float to the surface.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the delicate taste of fish with the spicy warmth of ginger and the crunch of scallions. A great way to prepare a healthy and delicious meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white or black bass, cod, or tilapia)
– 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. Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a steamer basket, arrange the fish fillets in a single layer.
3. Place the sliced ginger and chopped scallions on top of the fish.
4. Steam the mixture over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Ants Climbing a Tree (Ma Yi Shang Shu)
A classic Cantonese dessert, Ants Climbing a Tree is a sweet and sticky rice noodle dish that’s easy to make and fun to eat. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Food coloring (optional)
– Red bean paste or sweetened condensed milk for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rice flour and water. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
4. Flatten each ball into a thin sheet using a rolling pin or your hands.
5. Cut the sheets into long, thin strips, about 1/8 inch wide.
6. Cook the noodles in boiling water for 10-15 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Drain the noodles and rinse with cold water.
8. Mix sugar, oil, and salt. Add a few drops of food coloring if desired.
9. Coat the noodles with the sugar mixture and serve with red bean paste or sweetened condensed milk, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stir-Fried Green Beans with Minced Pork
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the crunch of green beans with the savory flavor of minced pork. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1/2 cup minced pork (ground pork or pork belly works well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 dried red chili flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced pork and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the green beans, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the wok. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Egg Fried Rice
This recipe yields a delicious and authentic Chinese-style egg fried rice dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side dish. With just a few ingredients and simple cooking steps, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful dish in no time.
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
– Scallions, chopped (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 aside and add the minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour the beaten eggs into the pan and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry the rice with the onion and egg mixture, adding soy sauce to taste.
7. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef Chow Fun
This classic Cantonese dish is a staple of Hong Kong street food, made with stir-fried beef, noodles, and a medley of vegetables. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, Beef Chow Fun is a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups Chow fun noodles (or substitute with rice noodles)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok.
4. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
5. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp.
6. Return beef to the wok and add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
7. Stir-fry everything together for 1-2 minutes, then combine with cooked noodles.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Braised Beef Noodle Soup
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in, this red braised beef noodle soup is a flavorful and satisfying meal. Tender chunks of beef, soft noodles, and a rich broth make this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket or chuck roast, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine beef, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Pour in broth, wine, tomato paste, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
4. Remove from oven and add noodles. Simmer over medium heat until noodles are cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Steamed Pork Buns (Baozi)
Experience the authentic taste of China with these soft and fluffy steamed pork buns, filled with savory pork and herbs. This classic recipe is a staple in many Chinese households.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup fermented rice (optional)
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground pork
+ 1 tablespoon soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
+ 2 tablespoons chopped scallions
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water and fermented rice (if using) to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small balls and roll out each ball into a thin circle.
5. Place a spoonful of pork filling in the center of each circle, then fold and seal the edges.
6. Steam the buns over boiling water for 12-15 minutes or until fluffy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salt and Pepper Shrimp
Savor the flavor of these succulent shrimp coated in a crunchy salt and pepper crust, perfect as an appetizer or main course. This quick and easy recipe yields mouthwatering results with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the cornstarch mixture.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Summary
Looking to elevate your cooking skills? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering authentic Chinese recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic dishes like Kung Pao Chicken and Peking Duck, to comforting noodle soups and savory stir-fries, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these tried-and-true recipes will guide you through every step of the cooking process. With ingredients and instructions provided for each dish, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Chinese culinary master.
