Chinese cuisine, with its origins in China, is a significant part of Chinese culture and has influenced many other cuisines in Asia and beyond. It is characterized by staple ingredients like rice, soy sauce, noodles, tea, and tofu, and tools such as chopsticks and the wok. The cuisine is highly diverse, with regional variations often categorized into provincial divisions. The most praised Four Great Traditions during the Qing dynasty were Chuan (Sichuan), Lu (Shandong), Yue (Guangdong), and Huaiyang (Jiangsu), representing cuisines of West, North, South, and East China, respectively. There are also “Eight Great Traditions” which include the aforementioned four plus Anhui, Fujian, Hunan, and Zhejiang cuisines.
Chinese cuisine has also evolved overseas, such as American Chinese cuisine, which is a derivative of Chinese cuisine developed by Chinese Americans. The dishes served in many North American Chinese restaurants are adapted to American tastes and often differ significantly from those found in China.
History of Chinese cuisine
The history of Chinese cuisine is a rich tapestry of variety and change, marked by the principle of a balanced meal consisting of grains, starches, and vegetable or meat dishes. This culinary tradition has evolved over centuries, influenced by factors such as the expansion of Han culture, traditional medicine, elite demands, and foreign influences. The first chopsticks, for instance, were used for cooking and serving food, and only became eating utensils during the Han dynasty. The Ming dynasty saw the adoption of new plants from the New World, such as maize and peanuts.
Chinese cuisine varies greatly across different regions due to varying climates and food availability. The primary distinction was between the arid North China Plain and the rainier south of the Yangtze River, with rice dominating southern cuisine and flour products in the north. The “Four Schools” of Chinese cuisine refer to Shandong's, Jiangsu's, Cantonese, and Sichuan's cuisines, with Hunan's, Fujian's, Anhui's, and Zhejiang's cuisines later recognized as distinct Chinese schools themselves.
Unique characteristics of Chinese cuisine restaurants
Size
Traditional Chinese restaurants, especially those serving dim sum, are often larger due to the communal nature of Chinese dining culture. These restaurants are designed to accommodate large groups and family gatherings, with round tables and lazy susans to facilitate sharing of dishes. On the other hand, fast food or take-out Chinese restaurants are typically smaller, focusing on quick service and efficiency.
Atmosphere
Chinese restaurants often have a unique atmosphere that sets them apart from other types of cuisine. The decor typically reflects Chinese culture, with elements such as red lanterns, calligraphy, and dragon or phoenix motifs, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. The layout may also follow Feng Shui principles to create a harmonious environment. In terms of noise level, Chinese restaurants can be quite lively and noisy, reflecting the Chinese belief that a loud restaurant is a prosperous one.
Menu
Chinese cuisine menus differ from other cuisines in several ways. Firstly, the ingredients used are unique, including a variety of vegetables, meats, and spices not commonly found in other cuisines. Chinese menus often feature a balance of flavors and textures, such as sweet and sour or crispy and soft, within a single dish. Chinese menus also categorize dishes differently. Instead of dividing into appetizers, main courses, and desserts, they are often grouped by the main ingredient or cooking method.
Service
Chinese restaurant service differs from other cuisines in several ways. Firstly, Chinese cuisine emphasizes communal dining. Dishes are typically served in the middle of the table for everyone to share, rather than individual plates. Secondly, in traditional Chinese dining, the sequence of dishes is also different. Soup is often served towards the end of the meal, unlike in Western dining where it is typically an appetizer.
Alcohol
The alcohol serving in Chinese cuisine restaurants differs from other cuisines in several ways. Firstly, Chinese restaurants often serve traditional Chinese liquors like Baijiu and Huangjiu, which are strong spirits not commonly found in other cuisines. They also serve rice wines like Shaoxing wine, which is used both for drinking and cooking. The concept of food and drink pairing is different in Chinese cuisine, with the alcohol often consumed as a separate course rather than being paired with specific dishes.
What items are typically on Chinese cuisine menus?
Appetizers
Appetizers in Chinese cuisine often include Spring Rolls ($4.02 ~ $10.39), Dumplings ($4.78 ~ $10.91), Peking Duck ($24.33 ~ $79.95), Hot and Sour Soup ($3.23 ~ $8.39), and Wonton Soup ($3.41 ~ $17.20).
Main Courses
Main courses typically feature Kung Pao Chicken ($9.99 ~ $18.00), Sweet and Sour Pork ($8.98 ~ $16.96), Ma Po Tofu ($9.99 ~ $17.03), Beef with Broccoli ($8.95 ~ $19.20), Moo Goo Gai Pan ($8.84 ~ $15.97), and General Tso's Chicken ($9.99 ~ $18.95).
Seafood Dishes
Seafood dishes often include Sweet and Sour Shrimp ($9.33 ~ $18.95), Szechuan Shrimp ($9.00 ~ $17.31), Lobster Cantonese ($7.38 ~ $16.55), and Scallops with Garlic Sauce ($11.57 ~ $21.95).
Vegetable Dishes
Vegetable dishes often feature Stir-Fried Bok Choy ($9.85 ~ $18.06), Szechuan Eggplant ($8.89 ~ $17.96), Mushroom with Bamboo Shoots ($2.15 ~ $21.31), and Chinese Broccoli with Oyster Sauce ($9.04 ~ $17.78).
Rice and Noodles
Rice and noodle dishes often include Fried Rice ($4.43 ~ $16.81), Lo Mein ($9.95 ~ $16.55), Chow Mein ($5.50 ~ $17.00), Rice Noodles with Vegetables ($3.99 ~ $15.90), and Yang Chow Fried Rice ($7.91 ~ $18.50).
Desserts
Desserts often include Fortune Cookies ($1.00 ~ $2.66), Almond Cookies ($1.30 ~ $3.86), Red Bean Bun ($4.95 ~ $8.00), Sesame Balls ($4.34 ~ $9.10), and Lychee with Ice Cream ($4.00 ~ $7.50).
Is Chinese cuisine popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner?
Yes, Chinese cuisine is popular for all three meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For breakfast, traditional Chinese dishes such as congee (rice porridge), youtiao (fried dough sticks), and baozi (steamed buns) are commonly enjoyed. For lunch and dinner, Chinese cuisine offers a wide variety of dishes that cater to different tastes. Staples include rice, noodles, and dishes with vegetables, meat, and seafood. Chinese cuisine is known for its balance of flavors and textures, as well as its emphasis on fresh ingredients. It's also adaptable to different dietary preferences, with many vegetarian and vegan options available.
Is Chinese cuisine popular for food delivery?
Yes, Chinese cuisine is indeed popular for food delivery. This popularity can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, Chinese food is known for its variety and versatility, offering a wide range of dishes that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Secondly, it is typically quick to prepare and travels well, making it ideal for delivery. The dishes maintain their flavor and texture even after a period of time, ensuring that customers receive a quality meal at their doorstep.
What are the most popular Chinese cuisine chains?
When it comes to popular restaurant chains for Chinese cuisine, several names stand out. Bianyifang and Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant are renowned for their Peking duck, while Hai Di Lao hot pot and Little Sheep Group are well-known chains for hot pot lovers. Quanjude is another noteworthy mention, with a culinary heritage dating back to 1864. This chain is famous for its Peking roast duck, serving over 2 million ducks in 400 different styles to more than 5 million customers annually. For those who prefer fast food, Café de Coral, Dicos, East Dawning, Mr. Lee, Yonghe King, and Zhen Gong Fu are popular choices.
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