Ditch the Takeout: Easy Homemade Chinese Food Recipes
When it comes to Chinese cuisine, takeout options have become increasingly popular over the years. We’ve all been guilty of ordering our favorite Chinese dishes from the nearest restaurant for convenience, speed, and taste. However, preparing your own Chinese food at home can be not only healthier but also surprisingly simple and rewarding. In this blog post, we will share a few easy homemade Chinese food recipes that will make you forget about takeout.
1. General Tso’s Chicken:
General Tso’s Chicken is a beloved dish, and you’ll be surprised by how easy it is to make at home. Start by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into small pieces. Marinate them in soy sauce, rice wine, and cornstarch for about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, ginger, and garlic to create the sauce. In a separate bowl, toss the marinated chicken in cornstarch until evenly coated. Fry the chicken until it turns crispy and golden. Finally, toss the fried chicken in the sauce and serve with steamed rice. This homemade version will be just as tasty as your favorite takeout.
2. Vegetable Lo Mein:
Lo Mein is a classic Chinese dish that is both delicious and versatile. Begin by boiling noodles according to the package instructions. In a wok or large skillet, heat oil and sauté your choice of vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms. Once the vegetables are tender, add the cooked noodles and toss them together. In a separate bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and a pinch of sugar. Pour the sauce over the noodles and vegetables, stirring until everything is well-coated. Serve hot, and you’ll have a healthy and satisfying homemade Lo Mein dish ready to enjoy.
3. Egg Drop Soup:
A comforting bowl of Egg Drop Soup is something you can easily recreate in your own kitchen. Start by bringing broth (chicken or vegetable) to a simmer in a saucepan. In a separate bowl, whisk together some cornstarch with water until smooth, and then add it to the simmering broth. Slowly drizzle beaten eggs into the soup while continuously stirring. Add some chopped green onions and a dash of soy sauce to enhance the flavors. In no time, you’ll have a warm and delightful bowl of Egg Drop Soup made entirely at home.
4. Kung Pao Tofu:
Kung Pao Tofu is a flavorful and protein-packed alternative to the classic Kung Pao Chicken. Begin by tossing tofu cubes in cornstarch and pan-frying until crispy. In a wok or skillet, stir-fry chopped bell peppers, onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. Add the crispy tofu to the mixture and stir-fry for a few more minutes. Finally, pour in a sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, and chili paste. Serve with steamed rice, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian dish that rivals any takeout version.
Preparing your own Chinese food at home can be enjoyable, allowing you to use fresh ingredients, control the amount of oil and sodium, and test your culinary skills. With these easy homemade recipes, you can satisfy your craving for Chinese cuisine while exploring new flavors and techniques. Ditch the takeout and venture into the kitchen to make your own Chinese feast. Remember, practice makes perfect, and soon you’ll be wowing your family and friends with your homemade Chinese delicacies.
