Chinese cuisine has been celebrated throughout the world for its exotic ingredients, complex flavors, and wonderful aromas. From steaming hot dumplings to spicy stir-fries, Chinese food has something to offer for everyone. Here are some mouthwatering Chinese dishes that you must try if you are a fan of Asian cuisine.
1. Kung Pao Chicken: Named after a famous Sichuan governor, this spicy and flavorful chicken dish is a staple in most Chinese restaurants. The dish is made by stir-frying diced chicken with chili pepper, garlic, ginger, peanuts, and vegetables like bell peppers, scallions, and carrots. Kung Pao Chicken is usually served over steamed rice or noodles and is perfect for those who love a little fire in their food.
2. Egg Fried Rice: One of the most popular dishes in China, egg fried rice is simple yet delicious. The dish is made by stir-frying leftover rice with eggs, vegetables like peas, carrots, and onions, soy sauce, and some sesame oil. The dish is a complete meal and can be served with other side dishes like steamed vegetables or meat.
3. Dim Sum: A classic Cantonese dish, Dim sum is a type of snack consisting of small portions of steamed or fried dumplings, buns, and rolls. Dim sum is traditionally served as a breakfast or brunch item and is typically paired with tea. Some of the most popular dim sum dishes include steamed pork dumplings, shrimp dumplings, char siu bao, and egg tarts.
4. Hot Pot: A popular winter dish in China, hot pot is a communal meal consisting of a simmering pot of broth placed at the center of the table, surrounded by an array of meats, seafood, vegetables, and noodles. Diners take turns cooking their chosen ingredients in the hot pot and dipping them in various sauces. Some popular hot pot styles include Sichuan hot pot, Mongolian hot pot, and Shabu-Shabu.
5. Mapo Tofu: Another Sichuan delicacy, Mapo tofu is a spicy bean curd dish made with ground pork, fermented black beans, chili pepper, and Sichuan peppercorns. The dish is served in a fragrant and spicy sauce and is perfect for those who enjoy bold and fiery flavors.
In conclusion, Chinese cuisine is a broad and diverse category of food, with each region and area of China offering its own unique flavors and dishes. Whether it’s spicy Sichuan cuisine, Cantonese dim sum, or traditional hot pot, there’s a dish for everyone to taste and savor. So, grab your chopsticks and take a culinary trip to China without ever leaving your home.