Chinese cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, textures, and centuries-old traditions that captivate food lovers around the world. With its diverse regional styles, from the fiery heat of Sichuan to the delicate dim sum of Canton, China’s culinary landscape offers something for every palate. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, exploring the must-try dishes of Chinese cuisine is a delicious journey through culture and history. The following list presents 18 essential Chinese dishes, each described in detail to highlight their unique appeal, preparation, and the experience they offer. Each entry also includes a direct link to a website featuring images and recipes, so you can see the dish for yourself and even try making it at home.
Peking Duck
Peking Duck stands as the epitome of Chinese culinary artistry, renowned for its paper-thin, crispy skin and succulent, flavorful meat. Originating from Beijing, this dish has been served since imperial times and is often considered a national treasure. The traditional preparation involves air-drying the duck, glazing it, and roasting it in a wood-fired oven until the skin turns a deep, golden brown. Sliced tableside, the duck is typically served with delicate pancakes, fresh scallions, cucumber, and a sweet bean sauce, allowing diners to assemble their own savory wraps. The contrast between the crackling skin and tender meat, combined with the fresh accompaniments, creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Eating Peking Duck is not just a meal but an experience, often reserved for special occasions or banquets, and it remains a symbol of Chinese hospitality and culinary excellence. Get the recipe: Peking Duck
Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)
Xiaolongbao, also known as soup dumplings, are a marvel of Shanghai cuisine that have won hearts worldwide. These delicate steamed dumplings are crafted with a thin, pleated wrapper encasing a savory filling of minced pork and rich, flavorful broth. The magic lies in the gelatinized stock, which melts into soup during steaming. Eating Xiaolongbao is an art—carefully lift the dumpling, nibble a small hole, sip the hot soup, and then enjoy the rest in one delicious bite. Traditionally served with black vinegar and ginger, Xiaolongbao offers an explosion of umami and a satisfying blend of textures. Their intricate preparation and the burst of hot broth make them a must-try for any food lover seeking the authentic taste of Shanghai. Get the recipe: Xiaolongbao
Kung Pao Chicken
Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Sichuan dish celebrated for its dynamic interplay of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. Tender chunks of chicken are stir-fried with crunchy peanuts, crisp vegetables, and fiery dried chili peppers, all tossed in a glossy sauce made from soy, vinegar, and Sichuan peppercorns. The result is a dish with a signature numbing heat and a pleasant tanginess that keeps you coming back for more. Kung Pao Chicken’s roots trace back to the Qing Dynasty, and it has since evolved into a global favorite, often adapted with local twists. Its vibrant color, bold aroma, and addictive taste make it a staple in Chinese restaurants and a must-try for anyone exploring authentic Chinese food. Get the recipe: Kung Pao Chicken
Sweet and Sour Pork
Sweet and Sour Pork is a beloved dish that perfectly captures the Chinese culinary philosophy of balancing flavors. Bite-sized pieces of pork are battered, deep-fried to a golden crisp, and then tossed in a vibrant sauce made from vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and soy sauce. The sauce’s tangy sweetness envelops the meat, creating an irresistible combination that appeals to all ages. Often garnished with bell peppers, pineapple, and onions, Sweet and Sour Pork is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Its popularity has spread far beyond China, making it a staple in Chinese restaurants worldwide and a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Get the recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork
Hot Pot
Hot Pot is more than just a dish—it’s a social dining experience deeply rooted in Chinese culture. At the center of the table bubbles a pot of flavorful broth, into which diners dip thinly sliced meats, fresh vegetables, tofu, and noodles to cook them to perfection. The variety of dipping sauces and customizable ingredients make each hot pot meal unique. Originating from Sichuan, hot pot is known for its spicy, numbing broth, but milder versions are popular across China. The communal aspect of sharing a simmering pot fosters conversation and connection, making hot pot a favorite for family gatherings and celebrations. Get the recipe: Hot Pot
Dim Sum
Dim Sum is a Cantonese tradition that transforms brunch into a culinary adventure. This collection of bite-sized dishes includes steamed buns, dumplings, rolls, and pastries, each meticulously crafted and bursting with flavor. Served in bamboo baskets, dim sum is enjoyed with tea and shared among friends and family. The variety is staggering—from shrimp har gow to pork siu mai and sweet custard tarts—ensuring there’s something for everyone. Dim sum is not just about the food but the lively atmosphere of the teahouse, where carts laden with delicacies weave between tables, inviting diners to sample and savor. Get the recipe: Dim Sum
Ma Po Tofu
Ma Po Tofu is a Sichuan classic renowned for its fiery, numbing heat and silky texture. Cubes of soft tofu are simmered in a spicy, aromatic sauce made with fermented black beans, chili paste, and minced pork or beef. The defining ingredient, Sichuan peppercorn, imparts a unique tingling sensation that distinguishes this dish. Ma Po Tofu is hearty, comforting, and deeply flavorful, often served over steamed rice to soak up the rich sauce. Its bold flavors and satisfying heat make it a favorite among spice lovers and a standout in Sichuan cuisine. Get the recipe: Ma Po Tofu
Wonton Soup
Wonton Soup is a comforting staple that showcases the elegance of Chinese dumplings. Delicate wontons—thin wrappers filled with seasoned pork or shrimp—are gently boiled and served in a clear, savory broth. The soup is often garnished with scallions and leafy greens, adding freshness and color. Wonton Soup is cherished for its light yet satisfying nature, making it a popular choice for breakfast, lunch, or a soothing meal on a chilly day. Its simplicity allows the quality of the ingredients to shine, exemplifying the balance and finesse of Chinese cooking. Get the recipe: Wonton Soup
Chow Mein
Chow Mein is a beloved stir-fried noodle dish that combines springy noodles with a medley of vegetables, meat, and a savory sauce. The noodles are first boiled, then stir-fried over high heat to achieve a slightly crispy texture. Common additions include chicken, beef, shrimp, and crunchy vegetables like bean sprouts and bell peppers. The sauce, typically soy-based with hints of garlic and ginger, ties everything together. Chow Mein’s versatility and satisfying flavors have made it a global favorite, adaptable to local tastes and ingredients while retaining its Chinese roots. Get the recipe: Chow Mein
Spring Rolls
Spring Rolls are a quintessential Chinese appetizer, celebrated for their crisp exterior and flavorful fillings. Thin pastry wrappers are filled with a mixture of vegetables, sometimes with pork or shrimp, then rolled and deep-fried until golden. The result is a crunchy shell that gives way to a savory, aromatic center. Spring Rolls are often served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce, enhancing their appeal. Popular during festivals and gatherings, they symbolize prosperity and are enjoyed across China and beyond. Get the recipe: Spring Rolls
Zhajiangmian (Fried Sauce Noodles)
Zhajiangmian is a hearty noodle dish hailing from Beijing, featuring thick wheat noodles topped with a rich, savory sauce made from fermented soybean paste and minced pork. Fresh vegetables like cucumber, carrot, and bean sprouts add crunch and balance to the robust, umami-packed sauce. Often described as Chinese “spaghetti,” Zhajiangmian is comforting, filling, and embodies the bold flavors of Northern Chinese cuisine. Its simplicity and depth of flavor make it a beloved home-cooked meal and a must-try for noodle enthusiasts. Get the recipe: Zhajiangmian
Red Braised Pork (Hong Shao Rou)
Red Braised Pork, or Hong Shao Rou, is a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth dish from Hunan and Shanghai. Pork belly is slowly braised in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, Shaoxing wine, and aromatic spices until it becomes tender and glossy. The sauce thickens into a rich, caramelized glaze that coats each piece of pork. This dish is beloved for its balance of sweet and savory flavors and its luxurious texture. Often served with steamed rice, Red Braised Pork is comfort food at its finest and a testament to the depth of Chinese braising techniques. Get the recipe: Red Braised Pork
Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)
Char Siu, or Chinese BBQ Pork, is a Cantonese specialty known for its vibrant red color and irresistible flavor. Pork is marinated in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, five-spice powder, and fermented tofu, then roasted until tender and caramelized. The result is juicy, aromatic pork with a sweet, savory glaze and slightly smoky undertones. Char Siu is often enjoyed on its own, sliced over rice, or tucked into fluffy steamed buns. Its unique taste and beautiful presentation make it a must-try for any meat lover. Get the recipe: Char Siu
Steamed BBQ Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao)
Steamed BBQ Pork Buns, or Char Siu Bao, are a beloved dim sum treat that combines the pillowy softness of steamed buns with the sweet-savory richness of Char Siu filling. The dough is soft and slightly sweet, encasing a generous portion of chopped BBQ pork in a glossy sauce. Steamed to perfection, these buns are light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. They are a staple at dim sum restaurants and a favorite snack for all ages, offering a delightful contrast of textures and a satisfying, portable meal. Get the recipe: Steamed BBQ Pork Buns
Mapo Tofu
Mapo Tofu is a fiery Sichuan classic that showcases the region’s love for bold, spicy flavors. Silky tofu cubes are simmered in a vibrant sauce made from chili bean paste, fermented black beans, and minced pork or beef. Sichuan peppercorns add a distinctive numbing sensation, creating a complex interplay of heat and aroma. Mapo Tofu is hearty, comforting, and best enjoyed with steamed rice to soak up the sauce. Its unique flavor profile and satisfying texture make it a standout dish for spice enthusiasts. Get the recipe: Mapo Tofu
Peking Ravioli (Jiaozi)
Peking Ravioli, known as Jiaozi, are pan-fried dumplings filled with a savory mixture of ground meat and vegetables. Their crispy bottoms and tender tops offer a delightful contrast in texture. Served with a tangy dipping sauce, Jiaozi are enjoyed across China, especially during festivals and family gatherings. Each region has its own variation, but the combination of juicy filling and golden crust remains universally loved. Making and sharing Jiaozi is a cherished tradition, symbolizing unity and good fortune. Get the recipe: Peking Ravioli
Sweet Rice Balls (Tang Yuan)
Sweet Rice Balls, or Tang Yuan, are a festive dessert enjoyed during Chinese New Year and Lantern Festival. Made from glutinous rice flour, these chewy balls are filled with sweet black sesame paste or red bean paste and served in a warm, lightly sweetened broth. The soft, elastic texture and aromatic filling make Tang Yuan a comforting treat that symbolizes reunion and happiness. Their delicate flavor and cultural significance make them a must-try for anyone exploring Chinese sweets. Get the recipe: Sweet Rice Balls
Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao)
Pan-Fried Buns, or Sheng Jian Bao, are a Shanghai street food favorite known for their crispy bottoms and juicy, flavorful pork filling. The buns are pan-fried until golden, then steamed to ensure a soft, fluffy top and a burst of savory broth inside. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and a rich, meaty taste. Sheng Jian Bao are often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack, and their irresistible flavor and satisfying crunch make them a must-try for any food lover. Get the recipe: Pan-Fried Buns
Chinese cuisine is a celebration of flavors, textures, and traditions that has enchanted food lovers for generations. From the iconic Peking Duck to the comforting embrace of Xiaolongbao and the fiery thrill of Mapo Tofu, each dish on this list offers a unique window into China’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re dining out or cooking at home, these 18 must-try Chinese dishes promise a journey of taste and discovery. Explore the recipes, savor the stories, and let your palate travel through the heart of China’s diverse food culture.
