Best Chinese Food in the World 2023 - Top 10 Dishes
by Krishika M
Updated Mar 22, 2023
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Best Chinese Food Dishes
Chinese food is renowned for its rich flavor, unique cooking methods, and diverse range of ingredients. Chinese cuisine is divided into eight regional styles, each with its own distinctive flavor profiles and cooking techniques. Some popular Chinese food dishes include dumplings, fried rice, kung pao chicken, hot and sour soup, moo shu pork, and chow mein. Chinese dishes are often served family-style, where multiple dishes are ordered and shared among diners. Chinese cuisine also places a strong emphasis on balance, with a focus on balancing the flavors of salty, sweet, sour, bitter, and umami to create a harmonious taste. The use of fresh ingredients, such as herbs, spices, and vegetables, is also an important aspect of Chinese cooking. Overall, Chinese cuisine offers a diverse and delicious range of dishes that are beloved by people all over the world.
Best Chinese Food in the World 2023
Dumplings hold a special place in Chinese cuisine, particularly in the northern regions where they are a must-have dish during the annual Chinese New Year's Eve reunion dinner. Legend has it that they were invented by Zhang Zhongjing, a renowned Chinese medicine practitioner over 1,800 years ago, to cure frostbitten ears during the winter. Today, dumplings are a popular comfort food enjoyed year-round, especially during the cold winter months.
The traditional dumpling filling is typically made from minced pork, chicken, mutton, or beef, combined with finely chopped vegetables such as cabbage, scallions, and carrots. The filling is then wrapped in a thin piece of dumpling skin, and the edges are pinched together to create the characteristic ear-like shape. During Chinese New Year, it is customary to add special items to the filling for good luck. Brown sugar symbolizes a sweet life, coins represent wealth and prosperity, dates symbolize good luck and fertility, and peanuts represent a long life.
Dumplings can be boiled, steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried, depending on personal preference. They are typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil, and can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main dish. In addition to their delicious taste, dumplings hold cultural significance in Chinese society. They are a symbol of family unity and good fortune, and making and eating dumplings together is a way to bring loved ones closer together.
Top 10 Most Popular Chinese Dishes
Here is the list of the top 10 most popular Chinese dishes:
1
Dumplings
2
Kung Pao Chicken
3
Chow Mein
4
Yangzhou Fried Rice
5
Fish-Flavored Shredded Pork
6
Sweet and Sour Pork Fillet
7
Scrambled Eggs with Tomatoes
8
Hot Pot
9
Ma Po Tofu
10
Spring Rolls
S.No.
Chinese Food
1. Dumplings
Dumplings are a type of Chinese food that consists of small pieces of dough filled with a mixture of meat, vegetables, or other ingredients. They are typically boiled or steamed, and can be served on their own or as part of a larger meal. Dumplings come in many different shapes and sizes, such as crescent-shaped, ball-shaped, or even flat. The filling can also vary widely, from pork and cabbage to shrimp and chives, and there are many regional variations in how they are made and served. One of the most popular types of Chinese dumplings is called "jiaozi," which are usually filled with a mixture of ground pork, vegetables, and spices. They are often served during Chinese New Year celebrations and are said to bring good luck and prosperity.
Another popular type of dumpling is called "xiaolongbao," which are small steamed buns filled with pork or other meats, along with a flavorful broth. When the dumpling is bitten into, the broth inside creates a burst of flavor that is both delicious and satisfying. Dumplings are a staple food in Chinese cuisine, and can be found in many Chinese restaurants around the world. They are enjoyed by people of all ages and are a beloved part of Chinese food culture.
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2. Kung Pao Chicken
Kung Pao chicken is a popular Chinese dish that originated in the Sichuan province of China. It is a stir-fry dish that typically consists of diced chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers, all tossed in a spicy, savory sauce. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, and cornstarch, which helps to tenderize the meat and gives it a slightly crispy texture when stir-fried. The sauce is made from a combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and chili paste, which gives the dish its signature spicy and slightly sweet flavor.
In addition to the chicken and sauce, Kung Pao chicken also includes vegetables such as green onions, bell peppers, and garlic, which add texture and flavor to the dish. Peanuts are also a key ingredient, providing a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken and vegetables. Kung Pao chicken is typically served with steamed rice, which helps to balance out the heat and spice of the dish. It is a popular Chinese takeout dish and is enjoyed by many people around the world for its bold flavors and satisfying combination of textures.
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3. Chow Mein
Chow Mein is a popular Chinese dish that is made with stir-fried noodles and a variety of vegetables, meat, or seafood. The dish originated in Northern China, but has become popular all over the world. Chow Mein typically consists of wheat-based noodles that are stir-fried with a mixture of vegetables, such as bok choy, cabbage, carrots, and onions. Meat or seafood can also be added, such as chicken, beef, shrimp, or pork. The dish is seasoned with a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other seasonings, which gives it a savory, umami flavor. Chow Mein can be served either soft or crispy, depending on the cooking method.
One of the key factors in making great Chow Mein is to stir-fry the ingredients quickly over high heat, which helps to preserve the texture and flavor of the noodles and vegetables. The noodles should also be cooked al dente, or just until they are tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Chow Mein is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences. It is commonly served as a main dish in Chinese restaurants, and is also a popular choice for takeout or delivery.
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4. Yangzhou Fried Rice
Yangzhou fried rice is a classic Chinese dish that originated in the city of Yangzhou in the Jiangsu province of China. It is a stir-fried rice dish that is typically made with a combination of rice, eggs, vegetables, and meat or seafood. The dish is known for its delicate flavor and colorful appearance. The rice is first cooked and cooled to room temperature before being stir-fried with a mixture of ingredients, which can include diced ham, shrimp, peas, carrots, and scallions. Eggs are also a key ingredient, often scrambled and then mixed in with the rice.
One of the distinguishing features of Yangzhou fried rice is the use of a small amount of soy sauce, which gives the dish a light brown color and a slightly savory flavor. Other seasonings can also be added, such as salt, sugar, and white pepper, to enhance the flavor of the dish. Yangzhou fried rice is typically served as a main dish, and can be enjoyed on its own or alongside other Chinese dishes. It is a popular choice for takeout and delivery, as well as for special occasions and family gatherings.
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5. Fish-Flavored Shredded Pork
Fish-Flavored Shredded Pork, also known as "Yu Xiang Rou Si" in Chinese, is a classic Sichuan-style dish that is popular in China and around the world. Despite its name, the dish doesn't actually contain any fish; instead, it gets its name from the combination of spices and seasonings that are typically used to prepare fish in Sichuan cuisine. The dish is made by shredding thin slices of pork and then stir-frying them with a variety of seasonings and vegetables, including garlic, ginger, scallions, bell peppers, and black beans. The sauce is made from a combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and chili paste, which gives the dish its signature sweet, sour, and spicy flavor.
One of the key ingredients in Fish-Flavored Shredded Pork is Sichuan peppercorns, which provide a unique numbing sensation on the tongue and lips. This ingredient, combined with the garlic and chili paste, gives the dish its distinctive and flavorful taste. The shredded pork in Fish-Flavored Shredded Pork is often marinated in a mixture of cornstarch, soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine, which helps to tenderize the meat and gives it a slightly crispy texture when stir-fried. Fish-Flavored Shredded Pork is typically served as a main dish with steamed rice, and is a popular choice in many Chinese restaurants both in China and abroad.
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6. Sweet and Sour Pork Fillet
Sweet and sour pork fillet is a classic Chinese dish that is beloved around the world for its sweet and tangy flavor. The dish is made by coating thin slices of pork fillet in a batter made from flour, cornstarch, and egg, then deep-frying them until crispy and golden brown. The sweet and sour sauce is made from a mixture of sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, ketchup, and pineapple juice, which gives the dish its signature sweet and tangy flavor. Other ingredients can also be added to the sauce, such as ginger, garlic, and green onions, which add depth and complexity to the flavor.
The deep-fried pork fillet is then tossed in the sweet and sour sauce, which coats the meat with its sticky and flavorful glaze. The dish is typically served with steamed rice and a side of vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks. In addition to pork fillet, other meats can also be used to make sweet and sour dishes, such as chicken, shrimp, and tofu. The dish can also be customized to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences by adjusting the levels of sweetness and sourness in the sauce. Sweet and sour pork fillet is a popular choice in many Chinese restaurants and is also a popular dish for takeout and delivery.
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7. Scrambled Eggs with Tomatoes
Scrambled eggs with tomatoes is a simple and classic Chinese dish that is popular for its delicious taste and quick preparation time. The dish is typically made with eggs, tomatoes, and a few simple seasonings, such as salt, sugar, and scallions. To make scrambled eggs with tomatoes, the tomatoes are first diced and then stir-fried in a hot wok or skillet until they become soft and juicy. The eggs are then whisked together in a bowl and added to the pan, where they are gently stirred with the tomatoes until they are fully cooked and scrambled. The dish is seasoned with a pinch of salt and sugar, which helps to balance the sweet and sour flavors of the tomatoes. Chopped scallions are also often added to the dish, which provides a fresh and savory flavor and adds a bit of color to the dish.
Scrambled eggs with tomatoes is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day. It is often served as a breakfast dish in China, but can also be eaten as a quick and easy lunch or dinner. The dish can be served on its own or alongside steamed rice or noodles, and can be customized to suit individual tastes by adjusting the levels of sweetness and saltiness.
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8. Hot Pot
Hot pot, also known as "huoguo" in Chinese, is a popular Chinese dish that is enjoyed by many people, especially during the winter months. It is a communal meal that involves cooking raw ingredients in a simmering pot of broth that is placed in the center of the table. The hot pot itself is typically a metal or clay pot that is filled with a flavorful broth made from a variety of ingredients, such as beef bones, chicken bones, and various herbs and spices. The broth is heated to a simmer and kept hot throughout the meal, allowing diners to cook their own food in the pot.
A wide variety of ingredients can be cooked in hot pot, including thinly sliced meats, seafood, tofu, vegetables, and noodles. The ingredients are typically placed in small dishes and then added to the hot pot as desired. As the food cooks in the broth, it takes on the rich and savory flavor of the broth, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal. One of the key elements of hot pot is the dipping sauce, which is typically made from a combination of soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and other seasonings. Diners can customize their own dipping sauce to suit their tastes, adding ingredients such as chili oil, minced garlic, or chopped scallions. Hot pot is often enjoyed with friends and family, and is a fun and interactive way to share a meal. It is a popular dining option in many Chinese restaurants, and can also be enjoyed at home with a hot pot set and some simple ingredients.
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9. Ma Po Tofu
Ma Po Tofu is a spicy and flavorful Chinese dish that originated in the Sichuan province of China. It is made with soft tofu, ground pork, and a spicy sauce made from fermented black beans, chili oil, and Sichuan peppercorns. The dish is named after the pockmarked (ma) old woman who created the dish in her small restaurant. To make Ma Po Tofu, the ground pork is first browned in a wok or skillet and then seasoned with the spicy sauce. The tofu is then added to the wok and gently simmered in the sauce until it is heated through and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce. The dish is typically garnished with chopped scallions or cilantro for freshness and color.
Ma Po Tofu is known for its bold and spicy flavor, which comes from the combination of spicy chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns. The Sichuan peppercorns have a unique numbing sensation that pairs well with the heat of the chili oil, creating a complex and satisfying flavor profile. The dish is often served with steamed rice or noodles to balance out the spiciness. Ma Po Tofu is a popular dish in many Chinese restaurants and is also a favorite among home cooks. It is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual tastes by adjusting the levels of spiciness or adding additional ingredients, such as mushrooms or bamboo shoots.
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10. Spring Rolls
Spring rolls are a popular Chinese appetizer that is enjoyed around the world. They are made with a thin pastry wrapper that is filled with a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, and noodles, and then deep-fried until crispy. The filling for spring rolls can vary depending on personal preference and regional variations. Common ingredients include shredded cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, onions, mushrooms, and seasoned ground pork or chicken. Some recipes also include rice vermicelli noodles or shrimp. To make spring rolls, the filling is first prepared and then wrapped in the pastry wrappers. The wrappers are made from a mixture of flour and water and are rolled out into thin sheets. A small amount of filling is then placed in the center of each wrapper, and the wrapper is folded over the filling and rolled up tightly.
Once the spring rolls are assembled, they are deep-fried until golden and crispy. The crispy exterior of the spring rolls is complemented by the savory and flavorful filling, creating a delicious and satisfying appetizer. Spring rolls are often served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce, which helps to balance out the richness of the filling and provides a complementary flavor. They can also be served as a main dish, accompanied by steamed rice or noodles. Spring rolls are a popular dish in many Chinese restaurants and are also commonly made at home. They are easy to customize and can be adapted to suit a variety of dietary preferences, such as vegetarian or gluten-free.
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Best Chinese Food in the World
Chinese cuisine is known for its diversity, flavor, and use of fresh ingredients. There are countless delicious Chinese dishes, but some of the most popular and widely enjoyed include:
These are just a few examples of the many delicious Chinese dishes available. Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse and offers a wide range of flavors and cooking techniques, so there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Best Chinese Dishes to Try
1. Kung Pao Chicken - a spicy Sichuan dish with tender chicken, peanuts, and vegetables
2. Peking Duck - a classic Beijing dish featuring crispy duck skin, thin pancakes, and savory sauce
3. Xiaolongbao - a type of steamed dumpling filled with hot soup and meat or vegetables
4. Mapo Tofu - a spicy Sichuan dish made with tofu, ground pork, and chili bean sauce
5. Gong Bao Shrimp - a stir-fry dish with succulent shrimp, peanuts, and vegetables in a spicy sauce
6. Hot and Sour Soup - a tangy soup made with mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots
7. Ma La Xiang Guo - a fiery Sichuan dish with stir-fried meat, vegetables, and spices
8. Dan Dan Noodles - a popular street food dish with chewy noodles, spicy sauce, and minced meat
9. Shui Zhu Yu - a spicy Sichuan fish dish in a fragrant broth with vegetables and noodles
10. Zhajiangmian - a traditional Beijing noodle dish with savory soybean paste and minced meat.
Regional Chinese Cuisines And Their Specialties
China is a vast country with diverse regional cuisines that vary in flavor, ingredients, and cooking methods. Here are some of the regional Chinese cuisines and their specialties:
Each regional cuisine has its unique flavors and specialties, and exploring them is an excellent way to experience the diverse and rich culinary culture of China.
Best Chinese restaurants around the world
There are numerous outstanding Chinese restaurants around the world, each offering a unique and diverse range of regional Chinese cuisines. Here are some of the best Chinese restaurants around the world:
Best Chinese Food in the World 2023 - FAQs
There are eight main regional cuisines in China, each with its own unique flavors and cooking techniques. They are Cantonese, Szechuan, Hunan, Shandong, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, and Anhui.
Soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, ginger, garlic, and Chinese five-spice powder are some of the most commonly used ingredients in Chinese cooking.
It depends on the dish and how it's prepared. Some Chinese dishes can be high in sodium, sugar, and fat, but many dishes, such as steamed vegetables and lean protein, can be healthy and nutritious.
Tea is an essential part of Chinese cuisine and culture, often served as a digestive aid or palate cleanser during meals. Chinese tea is also used in cooking, such as in tea-smoked dishes.
Stir-frying, steaming, braising, boiling, and deep-frying are some of the most common cooking techniques used in Chinese cuisine. These techniques help to preserve the natural flavors and textures of the ingredients while creating dishes with depth and complexity.