When it comes to cooking, many people are intimidated by the complexity of certain cuisines. But Chinese cuisine doesn’t have to be one of them! With its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and endless variety, Chinese cooking can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of their skill level. In fact, many Chinese dishes rely on simple techniques and readily available ingredients, making them perfect for beginners.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 easy and delicious Chinese recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic egg fried rice to spicy Szechuan noodles, these recipes will guide you through the preparation of authentic Chinese dishes that are both easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these simple and easy-to-follow recipes will have you cooking like a pro in no time!
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Satisfy your cravings with this classic Chinese-inspired dish, featuring crispy chicken pieces smothered in a sweet and tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vinegar (apple cider or white)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water until smooth.
6. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet or wok. Pour in the sweet and sour sauce (from step 1) and bring to a simmer.
7. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for an additional minute, or until the sauce thickens.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stir-Fried Beef with Broccoli
Quick and flavorful, this stir-fry recipe combines tender beef strips with crunchy broccoli and savory sauces for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 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 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the broccoli and garlic; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef strips to the skillet with the broccoli mixture.
5. Pour in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions (if using).
8. Serve immediately, hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Classic Egg Fried Rice
This recipe makes a flavorful and satisfying Chinese-inspired dish that’s perfect as a main course or as a side. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that’s easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 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 2-3 minutes.
3. Push the onion mixture to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the other side and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs with the onions.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through.
6. Add soy sauce to taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Green Beans
This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of green beans with a flavorful garlic butter sauce. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite meals, this garlic green beans recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 5 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
2. Drain the green beans and immediately submerge them in an ice bath to stop cooking. This will help preserve their bright green color.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kung Pao Shrimp
A classic Sichuan dish, Kung Pao shrimp is a spicy and savory stir-fry that combines succulent shrimp with peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, scallions)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and shrimp; stir-fry until pink and cooked through (2-3 minutes).
3. Add peanuts, vegetables, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pork Dumplings (Potstickers)
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of Chinese cuisine. With this simple recipe, you’ll be able to make delicious pork dumplings that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– Wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon 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.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
5. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
6. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and pork mixture.
Cooking Time:
– Pan-fry: 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
– Steam: 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
– Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Mapo Tofu
Mapo tofu is a classic Sichuan dish that combines silken tofu with a spicy, numbing sauce made from chili peppers and fermented soybeans. This recipe makes for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or soft silken tofu
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon of ginger paste
– 1/4 cup of fermented soybeans (doubanjiang)
– 1 tablespoon of chili bean paste (chili oil)
– 1/2 teaspoon of Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the tofu into small cubes and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic, onion, and ginger paste; stir-fry until fragrant.
4. Add the fermented soybeans, chili bean paste, and Sichuan peppercorns. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Add the tofu cubes and stir-fry until coated with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chow Mein Noodles
This Chinese-inspired dish is a staple of comfort food, with its savory sauce and satisfying noodles. In just a few simple steps, you can create this mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chow mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Pour the sauce mixture into the wok; stir-fry noodles and vegetables for 1-2 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spring Rolls
Spring rolls are a popular Asian dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course. This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to make these crispy, savory treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 1/2 cup cooked shrimp
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 package spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen section or international aisle)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed vegetables, cooked shrimp, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the vegetable mixture onto the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat.
5. When the oil is hot, add the spring rolls and fry until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes
Sesame Chicken
Sesame Chicken Recipe: A Sweet and Savory Twist on Chinese Classics
This simple recipe brings together the bold flavors of Asian cuisine with a hint of sweetness, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying this mouthwatering dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken pieces and toss until coated.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes, until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger; cook for 30 seconds.
7. Whisk in soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil.
8. Add cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce.
9. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Egg Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend brunch. This tomato egg stir-fry is a flavorful and nutritious option that combines the richness of eggs with the sweetness of tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 medium-sized tomato, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Push the onions to one side of the pan. Pour the eggs into the other half and scramble them until cooked through, breaking them up with a spatula as they cook.
5. Mix the eggs with the onions.
6. Add the diced tomato and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hot and Sour Soup
This classic Chinese soup is a perfect blend of spicy and savory flavors, making it a staple dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– 1/2 cup cooked and diced pork or chicken, for added protein
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, whisk together broth, water, and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and your choice of protein.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Szechuan Spicy Noodles
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with the comfort of a spicy noodle dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With its harmonious balance of sweet, sour, salty, and numbing (from the Szechuan peppercorns), this recipe will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground Szechuan peppercorns
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
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. Add onion and cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns. Cook for an additional minute.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and chili bean paste. Pour into the wok or skillet.
5. Add cooked noodles to the wok or skillet and stir-fry until well coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Scrambled Eggs with Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional scrambled eggs, this Chinese-inspired dish adds the sweetness of tomatoes and a savory kick from soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and scramble the eggs until they’re almost set.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the eggs. Stir gently to combine.
5. Continue cooking for another minute or until the eggs are fully cooked and the tomatoes are heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Honey Walnut Shrimp
This sweet and savory dish is a delightful twist on traditional shrimp dishes. Pan-seared shrimp are coated with a sticky honey glaze and crunchy walnuts, making for a flavorful and texturally appealing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
2. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat with the honey 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 per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped walnuts to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the walnuts and honey glaze.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Bao Buns
Soft and fluffy on the inside, crispy on the outside, these Steamed Bao Buns are a perfect accompaniment to your favorite fillings. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have freshly steamed buns in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into disk shapes.
6. Steam the buns in a steamer basket over boiling water for 12-15 minutes or until fluffy and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cucumber Salad with Garlic Dressing
A refreshing and flavorful salad that’s perfect for hot summer days. This simple recipe combines the coolness of cucumber slices with the pungency of garlic and a hint of tanginess.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, white wine vinegar, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Pour the garlic dressing over the cucumbers and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Five-Spice Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with a blend of five distinct spices, creating a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami flavors. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 tbsp Five-Spice powder
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Five-Spice powder, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic.
3. Brush both sides of the pork chops with the spice mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of China with these 18 simple and easy-to-make recipes perfect for beginners! From classic dishes like Stir-Fried Beef with Broccoli and Egg Fried Rice to savory options like Kung Pao Shrimp and Mapo Tofu, there’s something for everyone. Plus, learn how to make popular takeout favorites at home, including Sweet and Sour Chicken and Sesame Chicken. These recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen, and with their ease of preparation, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time.
