Chinese cuisine has won the hearts of Americans, with a plethora of popular dishes enjoyed worldwide. Yet, takeout often comes with a hefty price tag and questionable nutritional value. Fear not, as it’s entirely possible to recreate your favorite Chinese dishes at home without compromising on flavor.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through 29 mouth-watering recipes that will transport the authentic taste of takeout right into your own kitchen!
So, let’s embark on this culinary adventure and discover the secrets to making your favorite Chinese dishes at home.
Lo Mein
While chow mein and lo mein share some similarities, there’s a distinct difference between the two popular Asian-inspired dishes. One key distinction lies in the preparation of the noodles. Lo mein noodles are typically pre-cooked before being mixed with an assortment of vegetables, savory sauce, and meat or other protein sources. This approach results in a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that’s hard to beat.
Chicken Chop Suey
Chop suey is an enduring takeout staple that never fails to impress. The dish’s versatility lies in its ability to accommodate a variety of crunchy vegetables, tender chicken, and satisfying noodles, all harmoniously bound together by a rich, starchy sauce. With the name ‘mix of pieces’ serving as a nod to its customizable nature, feel free to get creative with your favorite vegetables!
The beauty of chicken chop suey lies in its effortless preparation – simply pan-fry the chicken, then stir-fry the veggies before incorporating the sauce, which relies on cornstarch for its signature thickness. Serve it all up with egg noodles or rice (for some inspiration, check out our curated collection of egg noodle recipes) and you’ve got a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to become a go-to.
Vegetable Pot Stickers
Pot stickers are an enticing beginning or accompaniment to a meal, with the added bonus of being simple to prepare. The process involves sautéing a medley of vegetables in a wok before encasing them within a dumpling wrapper and pan-frying until crispy. The choice of vegetables is entirely up to personal preference, although a classic combination includes ginger, garlic, shallots, mushrooms, and peppers.
To elevate the flavor, add a dash of soy sauce and sesame oil, then gently press the filling into a dumpling or wonton wrapper. Finally, cook the pot stickers in a skillet pan until they develop that irresistible crispy crust on the bottom. With their speed, taste, and versatility, these pot stickers are an excellent addition to any meal, whether served as a starter or enjoyed independently.
Beef And Broccoli Stir Fry
This effortless stir-fry recipe is a masterclass in simplicity. Despite its ease of preparation, the combination of tender beef, crunchy broccoli, and savory flavors yields a dish that’s both impressive and quick to prepare. The key lies in the harmonious union of sliced steak, full broccoli florets, ginger, and garlic, all coated in a rich and velvety teriyaki sauce. With its simplicity and satisfying flavor profile, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Duck In Satay Sauce
While peanut-based satay sauce can complement various meats, its harmonious union with succulent duck is arguably one of the most mouthwatering pairings out there. For those seeking a quicker and easier route to achieving this flavor combination, peanut butter can be used as a viable substitute for the traditional recipe.
The sweet and nutty essence of the satay sauce beautifully balances the savory richness of the duck, while an added kick from fresh chili peppers brings depth and excitement to the dish. For a wholesome accompaniment, consider serving it with plain white rice or quinoa – a nutritious alternative that won’t compromise on flavor.
Szechuan Chicken
Craving something with an extra kick of flavor? This recipe featuring Szechuan sauce is sure to deliver! Similar to other recipes on this list, the process involves coating fried chicken in a savory and spicy sauce. The best part? It’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, taking less than 20 minutes from start to finish.
At its core, Szechuan sauce is a bold condiment made with chili peppers, garlic, and sesame oil, resulting in a sticky glaze that provides a delightful balance of sweet and heat.
Crispy Shredded Chili Beef
Indulge in the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this recipe for crispy shredded chili beef. The dish packs a punch with its spicy kick, achieved through the combination of seasoned corn flour-coated steak strips and a sweet and spicy sauce made from soy sauce, chili paste, rice vinegar, sugar, and ketchup. To create this mouth-watering Chinese takeout classic, start by shallow-frying thin strips of steak to achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Then, fry the beef again with onions, fresh chilis, and the sticky glaze-like sauce that coats each strip without overpowering its crunchy texture.
Bang Bang Shrimp
Chinese cuisine is renowned for its incorporation of seafood, and this recipe for Bang Bang Shrimp exemplifies this tradition. The dish starts with succulent shrimp coated in Panko breadcrumbs and baked to a golden crisp. This crispy exterior gives way to tender flesh that’s then elevated by a zesty and spicy Bang Bang sauce.
Crafted from a medley of ingredients including sriracha, sweet chili sauce, honey, and lime juice, the sauce presents a surprisingly complex flavor profile that harmoniously complements the shrimp.
Sweet And Sour Chicken
Sweet and sour chicken is a takeout favorite that’s hard to resist! The dish features crispy fried chicken chunks smothered in a tangy sauce made from a harmonious blend of ketchup, sugar or honey, vinegar, and pineapple juice. For an added layer of juiciness and sweetness, pineapple chunks are incorporated into the recipe. While this dish is delightful on its own with regular rice, it truly reaches new heights when paired with egg fried rice.
Dan Dan Noodles
Indulge in the bold flavor of Szechuan cuisine with our dan dan noodle recipe, featuring an intense heat that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. While it may require a bit more effort than some other recipes on this list, the payoff is well worth the extra time. The combination of homemade chili oil, savory ground pork, tangy pickled vegetables, and springy white noodles creates a harmonious balance of spicy and umami flavors that’s sure to leave you craving more.
General Tso’s Chicken
While General Tso’s chicken is a beloved takeout staple in the US, its Chinese roots are somewhat of an illusion. Despite its popularity, this sweet and spicy dish has a humble beginning. The defining characteristic of General Tso’s chicken lies not in the cooking method, but rather in its sauce – a harmonious blend of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and cornstarch dissolved in water to achieve the perfect consistency.
To recreate this iconic dish at home, simply pan-fry some chicken, toss it in the sauce, and serve it with steamed broccoli, sesame seeds, and a bed of white rice for a well-rounded meal.
Hot And Sour Soup
While chicken noodle soup may get the most attention when it comes to combating colds, this hot and sour mushroom soup is a game-changer. Its unique blend of sour and spicy flavors makes for an incredibly satisfying and healthy meal. To start, you’ll begin with a foundation of chicken or vegetable stock, then add in a medley of flavors including vinegar, soy sauce, chilies, sesame oil, and ginger.
From there, you can incorporate an assortment of ingredients such as mushrooms, eggs, tofu, or chicken to create a hearty and filling soup. Allow the mixture to simmer for 30-40 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together, resulting in a complex and deliciously savory hot and sour mushroom soup that’s not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.
Spicy Singapore Noodles
Singapore noodles are an excellent alternative to richer noodle dishes like chow mein, offering a bold and flavorful twist. This beloved dish is characterized by its vibrant yellow hue, courtesy of the curry powder and turmeric used in its preparation. The resulting flavor profile is both spicy and slightly smoky, thanks to these key ingredients.
Typically, Singapore noodles are made with vermicelli noodles, combined with a harmonious blend of pork, prawns, egg, and vegetables, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Egg Drop Soup
Egg drop soup may seem like an unconventional dish at first, but its unique preparation process is what sets it apart. The base of this soup is a simple mixture of chicken broth and spices, which is then thickened with cornstarch. However, the real showstopper is when you add the egg drops themselves. Start by beating some eggs in a separate bowl, then slowly pour them into the soup while continuously stirring it.
As the eggs cook, they’ll form ribbons and drops that give the soup its signature texture and name. For even more control over the size of your egg drops, consider using a slotted ladle to drizzle the egg into the broth.
Beef In Black Bean Sauce
Beef and black bean, a staple of Chinese cuisine, is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. This savory dish features tender slices of beef cooked to perfection in a rich, umami-rich black bean sauce alongside a colorful medley of vegetables – including onions, carrots, and bell peppers. The subtle balance of heat and sweetness in the sauce complements the beef’s natural saltiness, while the crunchy texture of the veggies adds depth and visual appeal.
For the ultimate comfort food experience, pair this dish with a steaming hot plate of egg-fried rice and get ready to thank your taste buds.
Pineapple Fritters
Indulge in the sweetness of a well-rounded meal by concluding it with a decadent dessert – enter these scrumptious pineapple fritters! Their simplicity belies their flavor, as rings of juicy pineapple are gently wrapped in a crispy batter and deep-fried to perfection. With two mouthwatering options for finishing touches – a light dusting of powdered sugar or a rich coating of golden syrup – these bite-sized treats will leave you craving more.
Mango Pudding
Mango pudding has gained immense popularity in Hong Kong and Chinese takeouts across the US, making it a beloved dessert worldwide. This delectable treat typically consists of a harmonious blend of mango puree, cream, sugar, and gelatin, topped with a thin layer of coconut milk or condensed milk. To create this smooth delight, start by blending together ripe mango, water, and heavy cream, then dissolve gelatin and sugar in warm water before combining the two.
Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until it reaches a set consistency. A crucial step to achieving a lump-free pudding is ensuring the gelatin has cooled completely before mixing with the mango puree. The end result is a refreshing and silky dessert perfect for savoring on a warm summer evening.
Garlic Cashew Chicken
Indulge in the rich flavors of takeout-inspired cuisine without leaving your kitchen! This remarkably straightforward recipe requires only a few essential ingredients. Sautéed chicken and cashews are harmoniously combined in a savory garlic sauce, finished with a sprinkle of chopped green onion for added visual appeal. The best part? This delectable dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for a quick weeknight meal or weekend dinner.
Pair it with a side of fluffy white rice for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Fried Milk
Imagine a sweet treat that’s both familiar and innovative, as if childhood nostalgia meets modern creativity. This unusual dessert recipe involves transforming a mixture of milk, sugar, and cornstarch into jelly-like cubes through the process of simmering and refrigeration. The next step is to bread and fry these cubes, giving them a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with their soft, chewy center.
The result is an intriguing snack or dessert that’s sure to pique your curiosity and encourage you to take a bite. So, don’t be skeptical – just give it a try! Go To Recipe
Chinese Green Tea
When indulging in a traditional Chinese-style lunch, a soothing cup of green tea is an essential accompaniment. To experience the authentic taste and aroma, opt for high-quality green tea leaves such as Longjing or Xinyang Maojian. For added depth and a touch of sweetness, stir in a spoonful of honey or squeeze in some fresh lemon juice. Alternatively, savor it on its own to fully appreciate the delicate nuances of this beloved brew.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup, a classic comfort food, is a breeze to prepare without sacrificing flavor. The foundation of any exceptional soup lies in its broth, and a combination of chicken and vegetable broths yields the most satisfying results. If you’re short on time or prefer a stronger focus on one ingredient, either option can be used as a standalone choice.
Begin by sautéing aromatic onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in butter until tender, then introduce your chosen broth and chicken.
Allow the mixture to simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together harmoniously.
Just before serving, add your preferred noodles, and voilà! You’ll have a warm, nourishing bowl of goodness at the ready. The best part? This recipe lends itself perfectly to large-batch cooking, making it an excellent choice for freezing and enjoying on another day.
Chow Mein
Customizing chow mein is a breeze, allowing you to create a dish that suits your taste preferences. For a straightforward option, combine bean sprouts, bok choy, mushrooms, and thinly sliced carrots for a flavorful vegetable-based version. Alternatively, add your preferred protein source such as pork, beef, chicken, prawns, or tofu to give it an extra boost of flavor. With cooking time under 30 minutes, this versatile dish is ready in no time.
To add depth to the dish, stir-fry the ingredients with oyster sauce for a rich and savory taste.
Spring Rolls
Spring rolls are an undeniable favorite when it comes to takeout sides, particularly when paired with a homemade Chinese meal. What’s more, the filling options are virtually endless! From classic duck and hoisin sauce combinations to chicken or vegetable-centric fillings, there’s something for everyone. To create these tasty treats, thinly slice an assortment of vegetables like bean sprouts, carrot, and bamboo shoots alongside any desired fillings.
Then, roll them up in filo pastry, a technique that may take some practice but ultimately yields satisfying results. Finally, fry the rolls until they’re golden brown and irresistibly crispy.
Orange Chicken
The allure of orange chicken lies in its perfect harmony of textures and flavors, which has catapulted this dish to unprecedented popularity. The clever combination of orange juice and zest imbues the recipe with an unmistakable essence, while incorporating cornstarch into the breading ensures a satisfying crunch even after the sauce is applied.
A simple yet effective accompaniment is plain white rice, topped with a sprinkle of sesame seeds – allowing the star of the show, the delectable chicken, to shine through.
Pulled Pork Bao Buns
Transforming the process of making bao buns from time-consuming to effortless can be achieved by leveraging the power of a slow cooker. With just a few ingredients required for the bao themselves, which are then steamed until light and fluffy, you can significantly reduce the preparation time. Alternatively, you can also utilize a bread maker to expedite the process .
Once the bao is prepared, simply fill them with pulled pork and other desired fillings – a fresh slaw makes an excellent accompaniment. What’s remarkable about these bite-sized buns is their impressive filling capacity; one or two is often sufficient to satisfy your appetite.
Final Thought
Discover the flavors of homemade Chinese takeout without leaving your kitchen! This collection of 29 mouth-watering meals offers a world of variety, ensuring there’s something to tantalize every taste bud.
By exploring these recipes, you’ll not only expand your culinary skills but also broaden your palate. So go ahead, give some of these dishes a try, and experience the authentic taste of Chinese takeout in the comfort of your own home.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.