Xiaolongbao (小笼包), also known as Chinese soup dumplings, are a type of dim sum often hailed as the pinnacle of culinary perfection. This dish is a true gastronomic treasure that blends tradition and craftsmanship. This specialty, which proudly symbolizes the cuisine of the Jiangnan region in China, has earned unmatched […]
More than just peppery, Sichuan pepper delivers a distinctive blend of flavors with highly aromatic citrus notes that brighten any dish. With the bite of black pepper and a fresh, zesty lift, this Chinese spice will surprise you again and again. What is Sichuan pepper? As the name suggests, Sichuan […]
This glutinous rice flour ball/coconut pearl or Nuomici (糯米糍) is a famous Chinese pastry very popular in Guangdong province and Hong Kong. Sometimes, it’s called coconut rice ball or coconut mochi. The latter name is inaccurate in the sense that, yes, this dessert is very similar to mochi, but no, […]
Siu mai, also called xiu mai or “bouchons” on Réunion Island, are one of my favorite dim sum dishes. Why? Easy to fold and deliciously juicy—I eat them by the dozen without getting a stomachache afterward. That’s what I call having your cake and eating it too. What are siu […]
This fried wonton recipe yields delicious wonton or wantan dumplings filled with minced pork, mushrooms, and other savory seasonings. They are then fried until golden and crispy. In short, a guaranteed hit for an authentic Chinese appetizer! How to Make Fried Wontons? It’s surprisingly easy and fun to make your […]
Dried mushrooms are fantastic. Not only are they easy to store and keep for a long time, but you’ll also find an incredible variety in Asian supermarkets. In Chinese cooking, for example, they’re used all the time! A lot of you have asked me if there’s a special way to […]
Chinese dumplings are a beloved treat for Lunar New Year, a season rich with wonderful traditions and celebrations. But no celebration feels complete without the dishes that define the season. Tangyuan are to the Lunar New Year what the yule log is to Christmas: an almost essential tradition. Yuanxiao (Lantern […]
What is kai lan? In Asia, it’s also called gai lan; around here you’ll more often hear “Chinese broccoli” or “Chinese kale.” So what is kai lan? It’s a variety of cabbage from southern China that doesn’t have the typical cabbage flavor… It’s closer to broccoli—hence the French name. It’s […]
What is choy sum? Choy sum, also known as “yu choy” or “yu choy sum”, is a leafy green from the cabbage family. In this article we simply call it Chinese cabbage, but the name “choy sum” literally means “vegetable heart”. It is one of many varieties of Chinese cabbage, […]
A detailed guide to homemade Chinese hot pot broth. Two versions are included: a classic Sichuan-style spicy broth and a mild, chicken stock-based broth. If you’ve ever enjoyed Chinese hot pot, you’ll agree it’s a fun, interactive way to eat. Although I’ve published a complete guide to Chinese hot pot, […]
