Chinese Food

10 Chinese Foods You Absolutely Must Try Before You Die!

If there’s one cuisine that has captivated food lovers around the globe, it’s Chinese food. As a food writer and chef with a deep appreciation for diverse flavors, writing about Chinese cuisine has always been a joy—and a challenge. Chinese food isn’t just one type of cuisine; it’s a rich tapestry of regional dishes, cooking styles, and flavor profiles. Here, I’m excited to share ten unforgettable Chinese dishes you absolutely must try. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the culinary wonders of China, these dishes will give you a true taste of the diversity and depth that Chinese food has to offer. Let’s dive in!

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1. Peking Duck (Beijing)

One of Beijing’s culinary gems, Peking Duck is revered worldwide for its delicate preparation. The duck is carefully roasted until its skin is perfectly crispy and golden, while the meat stays juicy and tender. The highlight is the wafer-thin skin, which is often eaten with soft pancakes, sliced scallions, and a touch of hoisin sauce. Trying authentic Peking Duck is a feast for the senses and, historically, a dish once reserved for royalty.

Personal Experience: When I first tasted Peking Duck in a traditional Beijing restaurant, I was struck by the contrast of flavors—the sweet hoisin sauce, the juicy duck, and the crunch of fresh cucumber. It was a symphony of taste in every bite.

2. Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings, Shanghai)

These are no ordinary dumplings. Xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings, are a beloved staple of Shanghai, where they’re famous for their hot, savory broth sealed inside delicate wrappers. Eating them can be a delicate art: take a small bite to let the steam escape, sip the hot soup inside, and then enjoy the dumpling itself.

Chef’s Tip: For the best Xiaolongbao experience, I recommend finding a local dim sum place that specializes in this dish. The skill required to make them is nothing short of incredible, and watching them being made can be just as enjoyable as eating them.

3. Mapo Tofu (Sichuan)

Mapo Tofu is a spicy, numbing Sichuan dish that’s perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors. It’s made with soft tofu, ground pork (or beef), and a fiery sauce featuring Sichuan peppercorns. The “mala” sensation (a numbing heat unique to Sichuan cuisine) makes this dish truly unforgettable.

4. Dim Sum (Hong Kong/Cantonese)

Dim sum is more than just a meal; it’s a social experience. This Cantonese-style brunch consists of various small dishes, including dumplings, buns, and tarts. Whether it’s the delicate shrimp dumplings (har gow) or the rich barbecue pork buns (char siu bao), each dish tells its own story of flavor and texture.

Chef’s Tip: I recommend trying Dim Sum with friends or family to get the full experience of sharing multiple dishes. It’s a beautiful way to connect over food and savor a variety of flavors in one sitting.

5. Hot Pot (Chongqing/Sichuan)

Hot pot is the ultimate communal Chinese meal. At a hot pot restaurant, you’re given a pot of simmering broth and a selection of ingredients—meats, vegetables, noodles, and tofu—to cook right at the table. Sichuan hot pot, in particular, is known for its spicy, numbing broth infused with chili and peppercorn.

Product Recommendation: For a cozy hot pot night at home, consider the Double-Layer Electric Hot Pot. It lets you cook multiple ingredients and keep them warm at the same time, bringing the authentic hot pot experience to your kitchen

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6. Char Siu (Cantonese BBQ Pork)

Char Siu is a popular Cantonese dish made by marinating pork in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and five-spice powder, then roasting it to perfection. The result is a tender, slightly sweet, and smoky piece of pork with a caramelized outer layer. Char Siu is often served as a main dish or used as a filling for buns and other dishes.

Chef’s Note: When I make Char Siu at home, I often marinate it overnight for maximum flavor. The trick is in the glaze; applying it in layers while roasting ensures a deep, delicious flavor.

7. Kung Pao Chicken (Sichuan)

Kung Pao Chicken is another iconic Sichuan dish that has won over taste buds around the world. This stir-fried dish combines diced chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and a tangy sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and Sichuan peppercorns.

Chef’s Tip: Many Western versions of Kung Pao Chicken are quite mild, but the authentic dish has a kick! Look for restaurants that offer a more traditional version, or make it yourself using Sichuan peppercorns for that authentic heat.

8. Dan Dan Noodles (Sichuan)

Dan Dan Noodles are a classic street food in Sichuan, featuring wheat noodles topped with spicy ground pork, preserved vegetables, and a bold, nutty sauce. The dish is both spicy and savory, with a hint of sweetness from the peanuts or sesame paste in the sauce.

Book Recommendation: If you want to dive deeper into Chinese noodle dishes, pick up "Every Grain of Rice: Simple Chinese Home Cooking" by Fuchsia Dunlop. It’s a wonderful cookbook that not only explains techniques but also delves into the rich history of Chinese cooking. Grab your copy here to explore authentic Chinese recipes and more!

9. Sweet and Sour Fish (Eastern China)

Sweet and Sour Fish is a beautifully balanced dish that combines the crunch of lightly battered fish with a vibrant sauce made of vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce. This classic dish originated in Eastern China, where the balance of sweetness and sourness is a hallmark of the region’s cooking style.

Chef’s Experience: I had this dish at a traditional banquet in Shanghai, and the taste of fresh fish, perfectly balanced by the sweet and sour sauce, left a lasting impression.

10. Jianbing (Chinese Breakfast Crepe)

Jianbing is a popular street food breakfast in northern China. Often described as a “Chinese crepe,” Jianbing is made by spreading batter on a hot griddle, adding egg, scallions, cilantro, and crispy wonton, then folding it into a convenient handheld meal. It’s savory, crispy, and full of umami.

Chef’s Tip: To experience the best Jianbing, seek out a local street vendor in the morning. The dish loses its magic if it sits for too long, so it’s best enjoyed fresh off the griddle.

Each dish on this list represents a unique region and flavor profile within China’s vast culinary landscape, and each is an experience in itself. Whether you’re dining out or cooking at home, these dishes promise to add a rich, flavorful layer to your understanding of Chinese cuisine.

Chinese food has become beloved worldwide because of its depth, variety, and history. Each of these dishes tells a story, not only of the ingredients but also of the culture and people who have cherished them for centuries. As you embark on this culinary adventure, remember that each dish offers an invitation to explore, understand, and celebrate the traditions of Chinese cuisine. So, step out of your comfort zone, try something new, and savor every bite!

Happy tasting, and here’s to expanding your palate, one unforgettable dish at a time.