Are you craving the flavors of China but struggling to find gluten-free options that still pack a punch? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious and authentic gluten-free Chinese recipes that will transport your taste buds to the Far East. From classic dishes like General Tso’s Chicken and Sweet and Sour Pork, to innovative twists on old favorites like Kung Pao Chicken and Mongolian Beef, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for some new ideas to spice up your meal routine, these gluten-free Chinese recipes are sure to delight. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and packed with flavor. So go ahead, get cooking, and experience the bold flavors of China without compromising on dietary restrictions.
Gluten Free General Tso’s Chicken
Gluten-Free General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
A twist on the classic Chinese-American dish, this gluten-free version of General Tso’s Chicken is a game-changer for those with dietary restrictions. Crispy fried chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce – it’s a flavor combination that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– General Tso’s Sauce (homemade or store-bought, gluten-free)
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured chicken in buttermilk, then roll in cornstarch to coat.
4. Fry coated chicken in hot oil until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per batch.
5. Toss fried chicken in General Tso’s Sauce until fully coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total (includes frying time)
Gluten Free Sweet and Sour Pork
Sweet and Sour Pork Recipe (Gluten-Free)
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this classic Chinese dish adapted to be gluten-free! This recipe is a twist on the traditional sweet and sour pork, using fresh pineapple and bell peppers to add natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or boneless pork chops, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free)
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon gluten-free Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 cup bell pepper slices (any color)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the pork pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Fry the pork until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the pineapple and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten Free Kung Pao Chicken
This classic Sichuan dish gets a gluten-free twist, featuring crispy chicken, peanuts, and vegetables in a spicy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp gluten-free soy sauce
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snow peas)
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, and cornstarch. Add chicken and toss to coat.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Cook chicken until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add vegetables, peanuts, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, for 4-5 minutes.
4. Return chicken to the pan and stir in any remaining sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten Free Mapo Tofu
Mapo tofu is a classic Sichuan dish that combines silken tofu with spicy chili peppers and savory fermented soybeans. This gluten-free version uses rice vinegar and tamari to replicate the umami flavor of traditional soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm silken tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons tamari or gluten-free soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup fermented bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, white and green parts
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together tamari or soy sauce and rice vinegar.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the fermented bean paste and stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the tamari-rice vinegar mixture and add red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt to taste, then garnish with scallions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gluten Free Beef and Broccoli
This recipe is a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a gluten-free version of this beloved dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup beef broth (gluten-free)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive 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. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli, soy sauce, and ginger to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
5. Return the beef to the skillet and stir in any accumulated juices (if using beef broth). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten Free Hot and Sour Soup
Hot and sour soup is a classic Chinese recipe that’s both refreshing and flavorful. This gluten-free version uses rice vinegar and tamari to create a rich, savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon tamari
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in broth, water, rice vinegar, tamari, ginger, and white pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Gluten Free Spring Rolls
Delight your taste buds with these crispy and flavorful gluten-free spring rolls, packed with shrimp, vegetables, and savory spices. Perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gluten-free spring roll wrappers (usually found in the Asian food section)
– 1/2 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
– 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the cooked shrimp, cabbage, scallions, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper flat on a surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the spring rolls and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gluten Free Chow Mein
This recipe is a twist on the classic Chinese dish, substituting gluten-containing ingredients with gluten-free alternatives to make it safe for those with dietary restrictions. With its savory and slightly sweet flavors, this chow mein is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles (gluten-free)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 1 cup cooked chicken or beef, diced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free)
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (gluten-free)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice 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; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked meat; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce. Pour into the wok or skillet; stir to combine.
6. Add cooked noodles to the wok or skillet; stir until well coated with sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten Free Fried Rice
A simple and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick meal or snack. This gluten-free fried rice recipe uses cauliflower “rice” instead of traditional rice to make it gluten-free.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of cooked chicken, diced (optional)
– 2 teaspoons of soy sauce (make sure it’s gluten-free)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
2. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the cauliflower “rice” and cooked chicken (if using). Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender.
7. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir-fry for another minute.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Gluten Free Dumplings
Enjoy tender and flavorful gluten-free dumplings made with a simple mixture of rice flour, vegetables, and spices. This recipe yields a delicious and healthy snack or side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup grated carrots
– 1/4 cup shredded cabbage
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rice flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Add chopped scallions, grated carrots, and shredded cabbage to the mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually add water to form a dough. Knead until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
6. Cook dumplings by steaming or pan-frying with sesame oil for 2-3 minutes on each side.
Cooking Time:
– Steaming: 10-12 minutes
– Pan-frying: 4-6 minutes
Gluten Free Egg Drop Soup
This classic Chinese soup is a staple in many households, and with this recipe, you can enjoy it even if you’re gluten-free. Made with simple ingredients and a few clever techniques, this soup is a comforting and nourishing treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth (gluten-free)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (make sure it’s gluten-free)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a simmer.
2. Crack in the eggs and stir gently with a spoon to create thin, egg-drop-like strands.
3. Add the sesame oil and soy sauce, stirring to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Gluten Free Mongolian Beef
Discover the bold flavors of Mongolia with this gluten-free twist on a classic beef stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, and water.
2. Add the beef strips to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
5. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
6. Serve the beef hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten Free Cashew Chicken
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the creaminess of cashews with the savory taste of chicken. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup gluten-free soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup cashew butter
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh scallions, for garnish
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, cashew butter, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add chicken pieces and toss to coat.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange chicken in a single layer.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten Free Szechuan Shrimp
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this gluten-free shrimp recipe, featuring a spicy kick from chili flakes and Szechuan peppercorns. This dish is perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and crushed
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (gluten-free)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add ginger, Szechuan peppercorns, and chili flakes. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return shrimp to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gluten Free Char Siu Pork
A classic Cantonese-style BBQ dish, this gluten-free char siu pork recipe is a staple of Chinese cuisine. With its sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce (make sure it’s gluten-free)
– 2 tbsp hoisin sauce (make sure it’s gluten-free)
– 2 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, five-spice powder, and cornstarch.
2. Add the sliced pork, garlic, and ginger to the bowl. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten Free Scallion Pancakes
These crispy, savory pancakes are perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish to your favorite meals. Made with gluten-free flours and scallions, they’re a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup rice flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup scallions, chopped
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flours, cornstarch, rice flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chopped scallions and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add warm water to form a thick batter.
4. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or as is.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
Gluten Free Wonton Soup
This recipe brings together the comforting flavors of wonton soup with the convenience of gluten-free ingredients, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 package gluten-free wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
2. Add soy sauce and sesame oil to the pot.
3. Cook wonton wrappers according to package instructions. Typically, this involves soaking them in hot water for 30 seconds before cooking in boiling water for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add cooked wontons to the soup and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in sliced onion and minced garlic.
6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten Free Sesame Chicken
Get ready to experience the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with this gluten-free sesame chicken recipe! This dish is a delicious twist on traditional Chinese cuisine, using crispy chicken coated in a nutty sesame seed mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (make sure it’s gluten-free)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, sesame seeds, and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
7. Return chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until glazed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gluten Free Stir-Fried Green Beans
In just a few minutes, you can transform green beans into a tasty and healthy side dish that’s perfect for any meal. This gluten-free recipe is a great way to add some crunch and flavor to your plate.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup sliced almonds or sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add the green beans; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with almonds or sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-7 minutes
Gluten Free Honey Walnut Shrimp
Elevate your meal with this sweet and savory gluten-free honey walnut shrimp recipe, perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion. This dish combines succulent shrimp with crunchy walnuts and a hint of honey, all within 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the chopped walnuts and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly toasted.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and garlic.
7. Add the honey mixture to the skillet with the walnuts and stir to combine.
8. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the honey walnut sauce.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine with these 20 gluten-free recipes! From classic dishes like General Tso’s Chicken and Sweet and Sour Pork to popular stir-fries like Kung Pao Chicken and Mongolian Beef, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy a variety of textures and flavors with gluten-free options like Spring Rolls, Chow Mein, Fried Rice, and Dumplings. And don’t forget the soups! Try Hot and Sour Soup, Egg Drop Soup, or Wonton Soup to warm up your taste buds. With these recipes, you can enjoy the rich culinary heritage of China without worrying about gluten intolerance.
