Must-Try Chinese Dishes At Your Local Chinese Restaurant

Posted on: 18 April 2023

Are you looking to switch up your usual take-out routine? Chinese cuisine is a great way to add some variety and culture to your meal. Luckily, many local Chinese restaurants have plenty of delicious options that are sure to please everyone in the family.

Here are some of the most popular and delicious dishes to try when eating out at a local Chinese restaurant.

Hot and Sour Soup

If you're a soup person, you can try the hot and sour soup. This soup is perfect if you're feeling a little bit under the weather, as it's super hearty and full of flavor.

The soup typically contains eggs, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and tofu. It's finished off with a good dose of vinegar and chili oil, giving it a tangy and spicy flavor.

Hot and sour soup can be enjoyed as an appetizer alongside some steamed dumplings or fried wontons. You could also have it as a main meal alongside some fried rice or steamed vegetables.

Kung Pao Chicken

Looking for a spicy stir-fry that will leave your taste buds dancing? Then look no further than Kung Pao Chicken. This dish is delicious and allows for some customization, so feel free to adjust the spiciness level according to your preference.

The chicken is first marinated and then stir-fried with vegetables, chili peppers, soy sauce, and Sichuan peppercorns. These Sichuan peppercorns give the dish its signature ability to create a tingling effect in your mouth, known as "ma la," which is Chinese for numbing and spicy.

Ma Po Tofu

If you're vegetarian or looking for a plant-based option, Ma Po Tofu is perfect for you. Originating from the Sichuan province, Ma Po Tofu is a spicy, warm, and comforting dish consisting of tofu, ground pork, Sichuan peppercorns, and red chili oil.

It's a tofu dish like no other, known for its melt-in-the-mouth texture and spicy flavor that pairs beautifully with a bowl of steamed rice. This dish is ideal for anyone looking for a filling and healthy meal that's also easy on the wallet.

There's no denying that Chinese cuisine is packed with flavor, texture, and awesome ingredients that make for a delicious meal. It's a cuisine that's often diverse depending on the regions of China and their culinary specialties. 

From spicy Sichuan peppercorns to tangy vinegar, Chinese dishes have something to offer everyone. These three dishes are just the tip of the iceberg when exploring Chinese cuisine, so don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. So next time you're ordering from your local Chinese restaurant, try these dishes, and you won't be disappointed.

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