This Vietnamese take on a popular Southeast Asian cured pork is spicy, salty, and bursting with the tangy, fiery, and aromatic flavors of raw garlic, chilies, and pepper. It’s a real treat. Nem Chua: What Is It? Ah, nem chua! This little gem of Vietnamese charcuterie really knows how 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 […]
Let me say it up front: it’s a Japanese pantry essential. Also called “tsuyu,” this foundational condiment brings quintessential Japanese flavor to your dishes. A true ambassador of Japanese tastes! What is mentsuyu? Mentsuyu is the base sauce for many soups, broths, and noodle dishes. Traditionally, it’s a blend of […]
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, […]
Nuoc cham, also known as nem sauce, is a flavorful and versatile Vietnamese condiment. When you think of many Vietnamese dishes, it is hard to imagine enjoying them without a little nuoc cham on the side! Yes, even though in France nước chấm is often associated with a single version, […]
Making sweet red bean paste (Anko) from scratch is easier than you think. You only need azuki beans, sugar, water, and salt ! In this article, I’ll walk you through the two main varieties: Tsubuan (chunky) and Koshian (smooth). Once you’ve mastered this simple Anko recipe, you’ll be able to whip […]
This Chinese dressing, ready in 5 minutes, is simple, tangy, and so delicious! Made with sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and soy sauce, it’s excellent on any kind of salad and will remind you of your favorite Chinese restaurant. A good dressing is really what brings a salad to life. […]
Use this simple, four-ingredient Thai dressing to make your favorite authentic Thai salads. Adjust the ratios to taste—add more sweet, sour, salty, or spicy notes. Thai salads are different from Western-style salads. Even though we call them “salads,” they’re not often made with lettuce or other greens, and they usually […]
