When we think of Chinese cuisine, the first thing that comes to mind is rice, and rightfully so. Rice is the cornerstone of countless Chinese dishes. However, Chinese cuisine goes beyond this ubiquitous staple. China is renowned for its unique and sometimes surprising dishes that may startle some people. In addition to rice, traditional Chinese cuisine features various types of porridge made from ingredients like gaol, millet, and corn.
Rice plays a central role in Chinese cuisine. It is used to prepare "dan," a dry, crumbly porridge, as well as "damizhou," a liquid porridge often enjoyed for breakfast. Soybean products are also prevalent in Chinese dishes, including soybean oil, soy milk, and soybean curd. There are numerous recipes featuring fresh, pickled, and dried soybean curd. Chinese cuisine embraces dark brown liquid sauces and savory pastes made from soybeans. Grain legumes serve as a primary source of protein in the Chinese diet, often replacing meat due to limited meat consumption.
Pork is a widely utilized meat, while beef and mutton are less common. However, the hallmark of Chinese cuisine lies in its sauces, which offer exotic combinations of flavors and aromas. China boasts a wide variety of sauces that contribute to the uniqueness and sophistication of its dishes. While there are some unconventional and surprising dishes, they are often created more to astonish tourists rather than being everyday fare.
Main National Dishes of Chinese Cuisine
We've compiled a small list of China's national dishes to help you decide which one to choose.
- Peking Duck: This signature dish from Beijing features a piece of duck placed on a thin flatbread, sprinkled with onions, and dipped in soy sauce.
- Fresh Freshwater Fish: A distinct dish with different names, served in Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou.
- Kung Pao Chicken: This dish consists of tender, crispy chicken meat baked with spices and sauce.
- Transparent Shantang Broth: Broths are highly regarded in China, and this broth is drinkable, featuring pieces of meat that are fried and then boiled.
- Pork in Sweet and Sour Sauce: Despite the popularity of pork in Chinese cuisine, this dish stands out as particularly famous and can be found in many restaurants.
- Chicken Hee: This dish is somewhat akin to a salad, combining chicken and vegetables in a rather spicy preparation. Carrots, bell peppers, and onions are essential ingredients.
- Chinese Wonton Dumplings: This dish is ubiquitous and consists of dumplings filled with minced meat, sesame seeds, parsley, and sweet peppers.
- Swallow's Nests: Considered one of the premium dishes, swallow's nests, especially the soup made from them, can be quite expensive. These nests are crafted by salangana birds from their own saliva.
- Chisanchi: A sweet and sour dish featuring vegetables, including eggplant, and a variety of spices. Essential ingredients include potatoes, onions, garlic, and soy sauce.
Chinese beverages primarily include tea and rice beer. The rice beer is distinct, being light, strong, and relatively inexpensive. Tea is widely consumed both before and after meals. Mijiu rice wine is similar to sake and is quite potent. Baijiu, a white-filtered wine, is also strong, with an alcohol content of around 60 degrees.
