Explore the list of the most popular Chinese dishes beloved worldwide, from savory Kung Pao Chicken to sizzling Pecking Roast Duck. Taste the favorites now!
Have you ever wondered about the most popular Chinese dishes? What makes them so irresistible and universally loved? In this article, we will take your taste buds through signature dishes in China and explore the food that has won over foodies worldwide. Are you ready to start a culinary journey with us? Let’s dive in!
Overview of Chinese Cuisines
Chinese cuisine is a fascinating topic for food lovers across the globe for its rich history and diversity. It is a product of centuries of evolution, shaped by cultural exchanges, local preferences, and regional ingredients. So, before diving into popular Chinese dishes in China, let’s take a look at the brief history of Chinese cuisine and its cultural significance.
Brief History of Chinese Cuisine
The history of Chinese cuisine is as varied and rich as the country itself, which reflects the changing dynasties over several millennia.
- During the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BC), food was primarily vegetarian, emphasizing cereals, fruits, and vegetables.
- The Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC) saw the invention of fermentation techniques, paving the way for dishes like pickles and soy sauce.
- The Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD) introduced the concept of “fan-tsai,” where grain (fan) and vegetables or meat (tsai) were served together, forming the basis for a typical Chinese meal.
- The Tang Dynasty (618-907) was a golden age of Chinese cuisine, with trade routes bringing numerous new ingredients and culinary techniques.
- The Song Dynasty (960-1279) saw tea culture’s development and restaurants’ rise, contributing to the diversity of Chinese cuisine.
- The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) brought sophistication to the cuisine with the concept of color, aroma, and taste.
Importance of Food in Chinese Culture
In Chinese culture, food is not merely for sustenance but is deeply intertwined with social and spiritual life. Chinese people see it as a symbol of respect, love, and celebration. Traditional Chinese festivals and celebrations are centered around food. For instance, families prepare a feast with dishes symbolic of prosperity, happiness, and reunion during the Lunar New Year. The Chinese also believe in the medicinal properties of food. They often incorporate ingredients that are beneficial for health into their dishes.
10 Most Popular Chinese Dishes
As shared earlier, China is a country with a rich culinary history that spans many centuries. It offers numerous delectable dishes, from the spicy and aromatic concoctions of Sichuan cuisine to the comforting, homely dishes of Hunan. Here are the top picks of Chinese dishes you must try when visiting the country:
Kung Pao Chicken
Kung Bao Chicken is a Sichuan classic. It is loved for its mouth-watering combination of flavors. This dish is named after a Quing Dynasty official, “Ding Baozhen.” It is a harmonious mix of stir-fried diced chicken, peanuts, and vegetables. Its signature taste comes from the Sichuan peppercorns and dried chili peppers that give a spicy and slightly numbing flavor. Moreover, the addition of vinegar adds a hint of tanginess that complements the heat.
Peking Roast Duck
Peking Roast Duck is a royal dish from Beijing, the capital city. Its history dates back to the imperial era and is considered China’s national dish. The duck is seasoned and then roasted in a closed or hung oven, creating a crispy skin and tender, juicy meat inside. You can serve it with sweet bean sauce, spring onions, cucumbers, and pancakes. This dish offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
Sweet and Sour Pork
Sweet and sour pork is among the most popular Chinese takeout dishes worldwide. This dish originates from Cantonese cuisine. It encompasses chunks of deep-fried pork tossed in a vibrant sauce made from vinegar, ketchup, and sugar. The resulting flavors are both sweet and tangy. Hence, the dish often includes colorful bell peppers and pineapple for added texture and taste.
Mapo Tofu
Mapo Tofu is another representative of Sichuan cuisine. It is appreciated for its spicy, pungent, and tasty flavors. The dish is made from tofu and minced meat, usually beef or pork, in a spicy bean-based sauce. The numbing sensation of the Sichuan peppercorns and the soft, silky texture of the tofu make this dish a favorite among spice lovers.
Chinese Hot Pot
Chinese hot pot is a communal eating experience that involves cooking various raw ingredients in a simmering pot of soup broth. The ingredients can range from thinly sliced meats to seafood, vegetables, and noodles. The broth can be flavored differently, from spicy Sichuan style to a milder, herbal broth. Eating hot pot is not just about the food but also participating in cooking and eating together. This makes it a popular choice for family gatherings and parties.
Chow Mein
Chow Mein is one of the most popular Chinese noodle dishes, a versatile dish that consists of stir-fried noodles with various ingredients. Its name means stir-fried noodles, and this dish can include meat, vegetables, and seafood. The noodles are stir-fried with soy sauce and other seasonings, often including garlic and ginger. While there are many variations of Chow Mein, the common factor is the fried noodles’ deliciously crisp and chewy texture.
Wonton Soup
Wonton soup is another beloved Chinese dish that has become a staple in many Chinese restaurants worldwide. It comprises delicate wontons filled with a small amount of minced pork and shrimp, swimming in a light, flavorful broth. The soup is often garnished with fresh green onions and sometimes served with thin egg noodles. Each sip of the soup brings warmth and delight, making it an all-time favorite, especially during colder seasons.
Char Siu
Char Siu, also known as Chinese BBQ pork, is famous for its sweet, savory glaze and tender texture. The pork is typically marinated in honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, five-spice powder, and fermented tofu, then roasted to perfection. The result is an irresistibly delicious dish with a beautiful balance of flavors, making it a must-try for any meat lover.
Spring Rolls
Spring rolls are a favorite appetizer in Chinese cuisine. These are cylindrical rolls filled with various ingredients, such as shredded vegetables, minced meat, and noodles, all wrapped in a thin, crispy pastry. The filling is typically seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, giving the rolls a flavorful punch. Spring rolls generally are deep-fried until golden brown, resulting in a crispy outer layer that complements the tender and savory filling.
Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken fried rice, a staple in Chinese cuisine, is a versatile and hearty dish that has gained worldwide popularity. It is a dish made with cooked rice that is stir-fried in a wok, often mixed with vegetables, scrambled eggs, and a protein source like chicken. The key to good Chicken Fried Rice is its breath of the wok, which refers to the unique flavors imparted by cooking on high heat in a wok. This dish offers delightful flavors and textures that will satisfy any palate.
Regional Chinese Cuisines
Each region in China boasts its flavor and cooking techniques, resulting in various dishes that amaze the plate. Below are the eight regional Chinese cuisines:
Shandong Cuisine
Shandong cuisine, often called Lu cuisine, is among the most influential in Chinese cooking, forming the basis for northern Chinese cuisine. Shandong is a coastal province, and as such, its cuisine features a lot of seafood dishes. The cooking methods are varied, but braising and deep-frying are particularly popular. Shandong cuisine is famous for its fresh and salty flavors, often featuring garlic and scallions for added flavor.
Fujian Cuisine
Fujian cuisine, or Min cuisine, originates from the Fujian province on China’s southeast coast. With a focus on seafood and wild game, this regional cuisine is known for its sour and sweet flavors, with a preference for umami. The dishes are often light but flavorful, emphasizing umami taste, soup, and a unique “red distillation” technique for its stews and broths.
Sichuan Cuisine
Sichuan cuisine (Chuan cuisine) comes from the southwestern province of Sichuan. It’s among the most globally well-known Chinese regional cuisines. It’s famous for its bold, pungent, and spicy flavors resulting from the liberal use of garlic, chili peppers, and the unique Sichuan peppercorn. Sichuan cuisine often features a combination of flavors known as “mala,” a numbing spiciness that is both compelling and addictive.
Zhejiang Cuisine
Zhejiang cuisine, or Zhe cuisine, comes from the eastern province of Zhejiang. Zhejiang cuisine is known for its mellow and fresh flavors, with a notable emphasis on seafood. The dishes are delicate, light, and elegant, with a fragrant aroma. Signature dishes include West Lake Fish in Sweet and Sour Sauce and Longjing Shrimp.
Xinjiang Cuisine
Xinjiang cuisine hails from China’s far-western Xinjiang region. This cuisine is a delightful fusion of Middle Eastern and Chinese flavors, reflecting its historical position along the Silk Road. Lamb is a staple in Xinjiang cuisine, often served in Lamb Skwers and Lamb Pilaf. The region’s famous hand-pulled noodles (Laghman) are a must-try for any food lover.
Jiangsu Cuisine
Jiangsu (Su) cuisine is known for its sophisticated and elegant presentation, emphasizing soup dishes. Jiangsu dishes often feature seafood and fresh seasonal ingredients, with a focus on the original flavors of the ingredients. Braised Pork Balls in brown sauce and Yangzhou Fried Rice are well-loved dishes from this region.
Hunan Cuisine
Hunan (Xiang) cuisine is famous for its hot and spicy flavors due to the liberal use of chili peppers, shallots, and garlic. Various cooking techniques characterize this cuisine, including stewing, frying, pot roasting, and smoking. Famous Hunan dishes include Dong’an Chicken and Stinky Tofu, both offering a robust flavor experience.
Anhui Cuisine
Anhui cuisine, or Hui cuisine, originates from the Anhui province in Eastern China. This cuisine is renowned for emphasizing fresh ingredients, particularly wild herbs and vegetables from the region’s mountains. Anhui cuisine is characterized by its simple preparation methods, often involving stewing or braising to preserve the original flavors of the ingredients.
The Influence of Chinese Cuisine Globally
Chinese cuisine has had a significant influence on the culinary world globally. The impact is undeniable, from the ubiquitous Chinese restaurants found in almost every city around the globe to the fusion of Chinese ingredients and techniques with local cuisines. Dishes like Fried Rice and Chow Mein have become staples in many countries, while techniques like stir-frying have been adopted by various cuisines. The use of Chinese ingredients like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce in various dishes worldwide further attests to the global influence of Chinese cuisine.
In A Nutshell
With its complexity and diversity, Chinese cuisine offers a culinary journey like no other. From the spicy heat of Kung Pao Chicken to the comforting simplicity of Chicken Fried Rice, there is a Chinese dish for everyone. When visiting the country, let’s try the most popular Chinese dishes mentioned above!
