Chinese cuisine is renowned for its depth of flavor, vibrant colors, and variety that make it a favorite around the world. From the famous dumplings to the moreish stir-fries, Chinese cooking offers an array of dishes that are not only easy to prepare but also bring families together over a hearty meal. Here are five happy family Chinese recipes that you'll love, each one with its unique charm and the promise of a joyful dining experience.
1. Kung Pao Chicken
Kung Pao Chicken is a beloved dish that balances the heat of chilis with the nuttiness of peanuts and the succulence of tender chicken pieces. Here’s how to make it:
- Marinate: 1 pound of chicken breast (cubed) in 1 tablespoon each of soy sauce and Chinese rice wine for 20 minutes.
- Sauce: In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon each of soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and 2 teaspoons cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water.
- Cook: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok. Add chicken and stir-fry until cooked, then set aside. In the same wok, sauté 2 tablespoons of garlic and 1 tablespoon of ginger, followed by 4-5 dried chilis, 1 diced green pepper, and some peanuts. Return the chicken, add the sauce, and cook until thickened.
🌟 Note: Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of chilis or replacing them with bell peppers for a milder flavor.
2. Dumplings
There’s something inherently joyful about making dumplings together as a family. Here’s a simple pork and chive filling recipe:
- Dough: Mix 2 cups of flour with 3/4 cup of hot water until a dough forms. Let rest for 20 minutes.
- Filling: Combine 1 pound of ground pork, 2 cups of finely chopped chives, 1 tablespoon of ginger (minced), 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and salt.
- Assemble: Roll out the dough into small circles, place a spoonful of filling in the center, and seal the edges to form a dumpling shape.
- Cook: Either steam for 10 minutes or boil in water for 4 minutes. Serve with black vinegar or soy sauce dip.
💡 Note: Dumplings can be frozen once assembled. Simply cook from frozen, extending cooking time as needed.
3. Mapo Tofu
For a spicy yet comforting dish, Mapo Tofu stands out with its soft tofu drenched in a fiery sauce:
- Base: 1 block of firm tofu, cut into cubes; 1/2 pound ground pork; 1 tablespoon of Sichuan peppercorns, ground.
- Sauce: 2 tablespoons each of doubanjiang (spicy bean paste), soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Mix with 1/4 cup of water.
- Cook: Sauté 1 tablespoon of garlic and 2 tablespoons of chopped green onions in oil. Add pork, cook until browned. Add doubanjiang, cook until fragrant, then add tofu, sauce, and cook for 5 more minutes.
🔥 Note: Substitute doubanjiang with miso paste for a less spicy version if preferred.
4. Steamed Fish with Soy Sauce
Steaming fish is a healthy and flavorful way to showcase the delicate taste of fresh fish:
- Fish: Clean and pat dry a whole fish (about 1-1.5 pounds).
- Marinate: Rub the fish with salt, soy sauce, and a splash of rice wine. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Steam: Place the fish on a plate and steam for 8-10 minutes, depending on the size.
- Sauce: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil, add 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of water, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Pour this over the steamed fish. Garnish with green onions and ginger.
🐟 Note: Use ginger to help remove any fishy odor and add a subtle flavor.
5. Chinese Greens with Oyster Sauce
This side dish is simple yet elegant, complementing the richness of Chinese dishes:
- Greens: Use greens like Bok Choy, Gai Lan (Chinese Broccoli), or Yu Choy.
- Sauce: Whisk together 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil, and a bit of water.
- Cook: Blanch the greens until crisp-tender, then place in a serving dish. Pour the sauce over the greens and drizzle with hot oil for extra flavor.
In these dishes, we celebrate the essence of Chinese culinary traditions, where each ingredient plays a vital role in balancing the flavors. Each recipe brings a unique touch of joy, making your meal not only a gastronomical delight but also a bonding experience with your loved ones. Whether it’s the communal act of folding dumplings, the warmth of steaming dishes, or the vibrant tastes that ignite conversations, these recipes are sure to create lasting memories. Cooking together is about sharing time, culture, and love, making these meals not just food, but a part of your family’s story.
What if I can’t find Sichuan peppercorns for Mapo Tofu?
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You can still make the dish without Sichuan peppercorns, although it will lack the distinctive numbing flavor. Consider using black peppercorns or ground white pepper as an alternative, or simply omit the peppercorn for a milder taste.
Can I make these recipes gluten-free?
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Yes, many of these recipes can be adapted to be gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce (tamari), rice noodles instead of wheat noodles, and ensuring your oyster sauce is also gluten-free. Check labels carefully for any hidden gluten.
How can I adjust these recipes for a vegetarian diet?
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Replace meat with tofu, mushrooms, or mock meats in dishes like Kung Pao Chicken or Mapo Tofu. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken or fish stock, and be mindful of sauces which might contain fish or shellfish derivatives.
