China is a country where culinary art is elevated to perfection. Each dish has its own philosophy, conveying a balance of flavors, textures, and aromas. What popular Chinese food is really worth trying to experience all the facets of Eastern gastronomy?
The richness of Chinese cuisine is explained by its regional diversity. Each province has unique recipes and cooking techniques: Sichuan favors spicy flavors, Guangdong prefers delicate textures, and Beijing values a delicate balance of spices and cooking methods. Therefore, the answer to the question of which Chinese cuisine to try will depend on which part of the country you find yourself in.
Get ready for a culinary journey! In this article, we will explore popular dishes of Chinese cuisine that you must try before leaving China.
Peking Duck – the main culinary attraction
When it comes to popular food in China, the first thing that comes to mind is Peking duck. The legendary delicacy was created at the court of the Ming dynasty and has since remained a symbol of Chinese gastronomy.
The specialty of the dish lies in its preparation. The duck is marinated with special spices, then roasted in the oven to achieve the perfect combination of crispy skin and tender meat. It is served with thin wheat pancakes, fresh cucumber, green onions, and a thick sweet sauce.
The eating process is also ritualistic: you need to wrap a piece of Peking duck in a pancake, add vegetables, and dip it in the sauce. It’s not just a meal, but a true taste spectacle. In traditional restaurants, the duck is served in parts, starting with the skin, then the meat, and the bones are used to make a fragrant broth.
Kung Pao Chicken – Sichuan spiciness in every bite
If you enjoy spicy food, try Kung Pao chicken – one of the most popular dishes in Chinese cuisine. The chicken combines a sweet sauce, fried pieces of meat, peanuts, and red chili peppers. Sichuan peppercorns play an important role, causing a slight numbing sensation on the tongue and intensifying the taste of the spices.
Kung Pao chicken is served with rice or noodles, making it an ideal choice for those who want to eat affordably but deliciously in China. The dish is often eaten with chopsticks, mixing the meat with the side dish to emphasize its rich flavor.
Mapo Tofu – a spicy delicacy with a history
Spicy food lovers will definitely appreciate Mapo Tofu. The dish was created in the 19th century by an elderly woman named Chen, who cooked it for laborers.
The base of the recipe is soft tofu stewed in a flavorful sauce made of spicy chili, fermented beans, and garlic. Sichuan peppercorns give a spicy “numbing” sensation to the tongue, making the taste unique.
Traditionally, the dish is served with white rice to soften the spiciness. It is eaten with a spoon or chopsticks, mixing it with the side dish to create a balance of flavor sensations. The deep flavor instantly explains why the best dishes of Chinese cuisine include Mapo Tofu.
Chinese Dumplings – a must-try on a gastronomic journey
It is hard to imagine China without Chinese dumplings (jiaozi). They are served on Chinese New Year, as a daily meal, and even in upscale restaurants.
The filling can vary: pork, beef, shrimp, vegetables. The cooking methods also vary: they can be boiled, fried, or steamed. In any variation, Chinese dumplings remain juicy, aromatic, and incredibly delicious. Depending on the cooking method, dumplings are eaten with different sauces: vinegar, soy sauce, or spicy sauce. They are carefully picked up with chopsticks, dipped in sauce, and enjoyed with the juicy filling.
Jiaozi can be eaten affordably by trying them in small family-owned eateries in China.
Dan Dan Noodles – a street food hit in China
Among the dishes that are definitely worth trying, Dan Dan noodles stand out as a typical example of Chinese street food.
The specialty of the dish lies in the spicy meat sauce covering the noodles. It is made with peanut paste, chili, ginger, and garlic. The noodles are served with green onions and pickled vegetables.
Chinese Tea Ceremony – the cultural code of the country
In China, food is not only about dishes but also about drinks. A special place is occupied by the Chinese tea ceremony, where the stages of brewing tea turn into art.
Oolong, green tea, pu’er – each type has its own character and unique brewing process. In traditional tea houses, you can observe the ritual and taste real Chinese tea. It is sipped slowly, savoring every flavor. The tea is served in small cups, and the process may involve multiple infusions of the same leaves.
If you want to make sure that popular food in China includes not only dishes, but also drinks, visit a tea house. There you will discover the philosophy of tea, showing that it is deeper than just a beverage.
Where to Eat Well and Inexpensively in China?
If saving money is important to you, but you still want to try the best dishes of Chinese cuisine, choose the right places:
- street food markets – here you can find cheap and incredibly tasty dishes, from fried eggplants to lamb skewers;
- family cafes – in such establishments, Chinese dumplings, noodles, and aromatic soups are often prepared;
- tea houses – an excellent place to experience the tea ceremony and traditional snacks.
These establishments will help you understand that you can eat well in China affordably without compromising on quality.
Popular Food in China: What’s Important to Remember
When it comes to popular food, it is impossible to highlight just one dish. In China, you can enjoy roasted Peking duck, spicy Mapo Tofu, rich Kung Pao chicken, or try the famous Chinese dumplings.
Each of these dishes is part of a vast gastronomic world worth exploring. China not only offers delicious food – it immerses you in traditions, culture, and the philosophy of balance. This means that your journey to the Celestial Empire will not only be spectacular but also incredibly delicious!
