Chinese cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that has gained popularity around the world. With its bold flavors and intricate techniques, Chinese food has a reputation for being delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of spicy Szechuan dishes or the sweet and savory flavors of Cantonese cuisine, Chinese food offers something for everyone.
Chinese dishes are often thought of as difficult to prepare, but this article will feature 10 easy and beginner-friendly recipes that will allow you to bring the taste of China to your own kitchen. From fried rice to egg rolls and Kung Pao chicken, these recipes are simple to make and require minimal kitchen skills. Even if you’ve never cooked Chinese food before, you’ll be able to impress your family and friends with these delicious and authentic dishes.
II. Fried Rice
Fried rice is a staple dish in Chinese cuisine, and it’s easy to see why. This simple recipe is made with cooked rice, eggs, and a variety of vegetables and meats. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and make a delicious and satisfying meal. Fried rice has its origins in China and has many regional variations, however the most popular one is Yangzhou Fried Rice.
One variation that’s worth trying is to add some mushrooms to the recipe. Not only do they add a great earthy flavor, but they also provide a good source of protein for vegetarians. To do this, simply sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and vegetables in the skillet before adding the rice.
Another variation is to add some ginger and garlic to give it a more robust flavor. Simply add a tablespoon of grated ginger and 2 cloves of minced garlic along with the onions and vegetables in the skillet.
If you’re looking for more variations and substitutions, check out Taste of Home’s Quick Chinese Takeout Copycat Recipes for some delicious inspiration.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1/2 cup diced ham or chicken
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and eggs, and scramble until cooked through. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the onion and frozen peas and carrots to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the diced meat and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through.
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is heated through.
- Add the soy sauce and sesame oil, and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is evenly coated.
- Add the scrambled eggs and green onions, and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the eggs are heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.
Tips for variations and substitutions:
- You can use any kind of meat you like, such as shrimp, beef, pork or tofu.
- For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the meat with mushrooms or bell peppers.
- You can add some spices like ginger and garlic to give it a more robust flavor.
- You can also add some chili paste or sriracha sauce for a spicy kick.
- Fried rice is a great way to use up leftovers, so feel free to add any other vegetables you have on hand such as broccoli, bell peppers or carrots.
III. Egg Rolls
Egg rolls are a classic Chinese dish that are loved by many. Originating from southern China, this recipe has been adapted and loved all over the world. The dish consist of a filling made from a variety of meats, seafood and vegetables wrapped in a thin wheat flour wrapper and deep-fried to golden perfection.
Ingredients: -1/2 pound ground pork or beef -1/2 cup diced cabbage -1/2 cup shredded carrots -1/4 cup diced onion -1/4 cup diced mushrooms -2 cloves of minced garlic -1 tablespoon soy sauce -1 teaspoon sesame oil -1/4 teaspoon salt -1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper -8-10 egg roll wrappers
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground pork or beef over medium-high heat until browned.
- Add the cabbage, carrots, onion, mushrooms, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
- Lay an egg roll wrapper with a corner facing you. Place 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the wrapper.
- Roll the wrapper tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you roll.
- Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy pot to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Fry the egg rolls in batches until they are golden brown.
If you want to make a vegetarian version, you can use tofu or tempeh instead of meat. And you can use any vegetables you like such as bell pepper, broccoli, or even fruit like pineapple. To make it gluten-free you can use gluten-free wrapper. You can also try different dipping sauces like sweet and sour sauce or hot mustard sauce. The possibilities are endless!
One great alternative to traditional wheat flour wrappers is using cassava flour wrappers. Cassava flour is a gluten-free and nut-free alternative that can provide a similar texture and taste to wheat flour wrappers while also being a healthier option. Not only is it gluten-free, but it’s also a good source of fiber and resistant starch, which can help with digestion and weight management. Give it a try in this recipe and see for yourself how delicious and nutritious egg rolls can be with cassava flour wrappers.
IV. Kung Pao Chicken
Kung Pao Chicken, also known as Kung Po or Gong Bao Chicken, is a spicy Szechuan dish that originated in the Sichuan province of China. This dish is characterized by its bold and complex flavors, with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, spicy and savory. Kung Pao chicken is made with chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and a spicy chili sauce.
Ingredients: -1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes -1/4 cup cornstarch -1/4 cup vegetable oil -3 cloves of minced garlic -2 tablespoons chopped ginger -1/2 cup peanuts -1/2 cup diced bell pepper -1/4 cup diced onion -1/4 cup diced carrots -1/4 cup diced celery -1/4 cup chicken broth -1 tablespoon soy sauce -1 tablespoon rice vinegar -1 teaspoon sugar -1 teaspoon chili flakes -1/4 teaspoon salt -1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix the chicken cubes with cornstarch to coat.
- Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.
- In the same wok, add the garlic, ginger, peanuts, bell pepper, onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the sauce over the vegetables in the wok and bring to a simmer.
- Add the chicken back into the wok and toss to coat with the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve with steamed rice.
This recipe can be made with shrimp or beef instead of chicken. Peanuts can be substituted with cashews or almonds. If you want to make it gluten-free you can use gluten-free soy sauce. You can also adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less chili flakes. And if you want to make it more authentic you can add Szechuan peppercorns in the recipe too.
V. Wonton Soup
Wonton soup is a beloved Chinese soup dish that is believed to have originated in the Canton region of China. This dish is made up of delicate wonton dumplings filled with a mixture of meat and vegetables, simmered in a savory broth. Wonton soup is a perfect comfort food that can be enjoyed as a light meal or as a starter.
Ingredients: -1 lb ground pork or beef -1/2 cup diced cabbage -1/4 cup diced onion -1/4 cup diced mushrooms -2 cloves of minced garlic -1 tablespoon soy sauce -1 teaspoon sesame oil -1/4 teaspoon salt -1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper -40 wonton wrappers -8 cups chicken or beef broth
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork or beef, cabbage, onion, mushrooms, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
- To assemble the wontons, lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a teaspoon of the meat mixture in the center of the wrapper.
- Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water. Fold the wrapper in half to form a triangle, then bring the two corners together and press to seal.
- In a large pot, bring the broth to a simmer.
- Gently drop the wontons into the simmering broth and cook for 3-5 minutes or until the wontons are cooked through.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the meat with tofu or mushrooms. And you can use any vegetables you like such as bell pepper, broccoli, or even fruit like pineapple in the filling. To make it gluten-free you can use gluten-free wonton wrappers. You can also try different broths such as vegetable or miso broth. Finally, you can add additional ingredients such as green onions or cilantro for an added flavor and garnish.
VI. Lo Mein
Lo Mein is a popular Chinese dish that consists of soft wheat noodles stir-fried with a variety of vegetables and meat or seafood. The dish is said to have originated in China’s coastal region of Canton, but has since become a staple in Chinese-American cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups sliced vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, and cabbage)
- 1 cup diced meat or seafood (such as chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the sliced vegetables and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add the diced meat or seafood and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and white pepper to the skillet or wok.
- Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with green onions, if desired.
Variations and Substitutions:
- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the meat or seafood and use extra vegetables instead.
- For a gluten-free version, you can use rice noodles or zucchini noodles instead of wheat noodles.
- You can also add other ingredients such as bean sprouts, mushrooms, or bok choy to change up the flavor.
- You can use different sauces such as hoisin sauce, teriyaki sauce, or sweet and sour sauce to change up the flavor.
VII. Sweet and Sour Pork
Sweet and Sour Pork is a classic Chinese dish that is known for its balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The dish is said to have originated in China’s Guangdong province, but has since become a staple in Chinese-American cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup corn starch
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp corn starch
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions:
- In a shallow dish, mix together corn starch and flour.
- In another shallow dish, beat the egg.
- Dip the pork into the beaten egg, then coat it with the corn starch and flour mixture.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over high heat.
- Add the pork and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until it’s golden brown.
- Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onions, red and green bell peppers, pineapple and garlic for 2-3 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix together the vinegar, ketchup, sugar, soy sauce, corn starch and water.
- Add the mixture to the skillet and stir until it thickens.
- Return the pork to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve immediately.
Variations and Substitutions:
- You can use chicken or beef instead of pork.
- You can add other ingredients such as carrots, mushrooms, or bok choy to change up the flavor.
- You can use different sauces such as hoisin sauce, teriyaki sauce, or oyster sauce to change up the flavor.
- You can make it spicy by adding chili paste or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or corn starch instead of regular flour.
VIII. Egg Drop Soup
Egg Drop Soup is a classic Chinese soup that is known for its silky texture and delicate flavor. The dish is said to have originated in China’s northern region, but has since become a staple in Chinese-American cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp corn starch
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium-sized pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.
- Add the green onions and sesame oil and stir.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, corn starch, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture into the pot while stirring the soup with a fork.
- The eggs will cook instantly and form thin ribbons in the soup.
- Remove the pot from heat and serve immediately.
Variations and Substitutions:
- You can add other ingredients such as sliced mushrooms, diced carrots, or bok choy to change up the flavor.
- You can make it spicy by adding chili paste or red pepper flakes to the broth.
- You can add diced cooked chicken or shrimp to make it a more substantial meal.
- You can use different broths such as beef or pork broth to change up the flavor.
- You can also add a spoonful of rice to make it more filling.
- you can also add tofu to make it a more substantial meal.
- You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
IX. Hot and Sour Soup
Hot and Sour Soup is a classic Chinese soup that is known for its balance of spicy and sour flavors. The dish is said to have originated in China’s Sichuan province, but has since become a staple in Chinese-American cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
- 1/4 cup sliced bamboo shoots
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp corn starch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp ground white pepper
- 1 tsp chili oil (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium-sized pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.
- Add the shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, green onions, soy sauce, rice vinegar, corn starch, sesame oil, ground white pepper, and chili oil (if using).
- Stir until the corn starch is dissolved and the soup thickens.
- Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the pot while stirring the soup with a fork.
- The eggs will cook instantly and form thin ribbons in the soup.
- Remove the pot from heat and serve immediately.
Variations and Substitutions:
- You can add other ingredients such as diced tofu, sliced pork, or shrimp to change up the flavor.
- You can use different broths such as beef or pork broth to change up the flavor.
- You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
- You can add more or less chili oil to adjust the level of spiciness to your taste.
- You can also add other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or bok choy to change up the flavor.
- You can also use different types of mushrooms such as sliced button mushrooms or sliced straw mushrooms.
- You can also add a spoonful of rice to make it more filling.
X. Conclusion
In this article, we have featured 10 classic Chinese recipes including Kung Pao Chicken, Chow Mein, Dumplings, Spring Rolls, Wontons, Fried Rice, Lo Mein, Sweet and Sour Pork, Egg Drop Soup, and Hot and Sour Soup. Each recipe offers a unique and delicious taste of Chinese cuisine.
We encourage readers to experiment with variations and substitutions to make the recipes their own. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients to suit your taste and dietary restrictions.
For those looking to learn more about Chinese cuisine, we suggest checking out cookbooks by Chinese chefs such as Ching-He Huang, Ken Hom, and Fuchsia Dunlop. Websites such as Serious Eats, The Woks of Life, and Chinese Cooking Demystified also offer a wealth of information and recipes for Chinese cooking. Additionally, watching cooking shows or cooking videos on Chinese cuisine can also be a helpful resource.