18 Chinese Almond Cookie Recipe Lard You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 22, 2024
Chinese almond cookies are a delicious and traditional treat that are often enjoyed during Lunar New Year celebrations. This simple yet flavorful cookie recipe originated in China and has been passed down for generations. While many recipes call for butter or vegetable shortening, using lard in this recipe adds a unique and authentic flavor that cannot be achieved with other fats. In this article, we will explore the history of Chinese almond cookies, the benefits of using lard in baking, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make these delectable treats at home. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your homemade Chinese almond cookies!
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Cake Flour, Sugar, Baking Powder
Pork bao, also known as char siu bao, are fluffy steamed buns filled with succulent pork. These Chinese delicacies are a popular dim sum dish and are often served as an appetizer or snack. They can also be found at many street food stalls in China. The soft bun is filled with tender, sweet and savory pork, which is marinated in a special sauce and then slow roasted to perfection. The contrast of the fluffy bun and juicy pork makes for a delicious and satisfying bite.
2of 20
Glutinous Rice and Chinese Sausage Wrapped in Banana...
Main Ingredients: Glutinous Rice, Rice, Soy Sauce, Sugar, Sesame Oil
This traditional Chinese dish, also known as zongzi, is a savory rice dish wrapped in banana leaves. Glutinous rice is mixed with Chinese sausage, mushrooms, and other flavorful ingredients and then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. The result is a delicious and fragrant rice dish that is often served during the Dragon Boat Festival in China. The banana leaves impart a unique flavor to the rice, making it a must-try for any Chinese food lover.
These soft and fluffy steamed buns are filled with a rich and creamy egg custard. The buns are made from a yeast dough and are steamed until they are light and airy. The custard filling is made from egg yolks, sugar, and milk, and has a smooth and velvety texture. These buns are a popular dessert in many Chinese restaurants and are often served as a sweet ending to a meal.
4of 20
Traditional Mole Sauce
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Onions, Small Tomatoes, Black Peppercorns
Mole sauce is a rich and flavorful sauce that is a staple in many Mexican dishes. However, it actually has its roots in Chinese cuisine. The sauce is made from a blend of chili peppers, spices, and chocolate, giving it a complex and unique flavor. It is often served over meat dishes, such as chicken or pork, and can also be used as a dipping sauce for tortilla chips or vegetables. It's a delicious fusion of Chinese and Mexican flavors that is sure to impress.
5of 20
Chinese Pulled Pork Barbecue
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Chicken Stock, Five Spice, Himalayan
Pulled pork is a classic American dish, but this Chinese-inspired version takes it to the next level. The pork is marinated in a flavorful blend of Chinese spices and then slow cooked until it is tender and falls apart. It is then shredded and mixed with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, creating a delicious and unique twist on a classic dish. Serve it on a bun or over rice for a mouthwatering meal.
Fried rice is a popular Chinese dish that is often served as a side dish or main course. It is made by stir-frying cooked rice with vegetables, meat, and seasonings. The result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that can be customized to suit your taste. You can add your choice of protein, such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu, and vegetables like carrots, peas, and onions. It's a versatile dish that is quick and easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
7of 20
Easy Chinese Sesame Pie
Main Ingredients: Flour, Egg, Lard, Water, Pork, Coriander, Water
Sesame pie, also known as shaobing, is a Chinese pastry that is filled with a savory or sweet filling. This easy version is made with a flaky pie crust and filled with a mixture of sesame seeds, sugar, and other flavorings. The result is a crispy and nutty pie that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. It's a simple yet delicious treat that will satisfy your cravings for something sweet and savory.
8of 20
Chinese Chitterlings Hot Pot Base
Main Ingredients: Chitterlings, Scallions, Ginger, Vegetable Oil, Beef
Hot pot is a popular Chinese dish that involves cooking various ingredients in a simmering broth at the table. This hot pot base is made from chitterlings, which are the intestines of a pig, and is a favorite in many regions of China. The broth is flavored with a variety of spices and herbs, giving it a rich and complex flavor. It's a fun and interactive dining experience that is perfect for sharing with friends and family.
9of 20
Chinese Egg Tarts (Dan Tat) 蛋挞
Main Ingredients: Plain Flour, Butter, Sugar, Water, Lard, Large Eggs
Egg tarts, also known as dan tat, are a popular Cantonese pastry that is often served as a dessert or snack. The crust is made from a flaky and buttery dough, and the filling is a smooth and creamy custard made from eggs, milk, and sugar. These tarts are often served warm and are a delicious treat for any time of day. They are popular in Hong Kong and can also be found in many Chinese bakeries around the world.
10of 20
Paleo Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken
Main Ingredients: Coconut Aminos, Garlic, Chicken Drumsticks, Tapioca
This paleo version of salt and pepper chicken is a healthier twist on a classic Chinese dish. The chicken is coated in a mixture of almond flour, salt, and pepper, and then pan-fried until crispy. It's a simple and flavorful dish that is perfect for those following a paleo or gluten-free diet. Serve it with your choice of vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
11of 20
Chinese Sticky Rices-Two Ways
Main Ingredients: Sticky Rice, Mushroom, Shrimp, Chinese Sausage, Cooking
Sticky rice, also known as glutinous rice, is a staple in many Chinese dishes. It has a sticky and chewy texture and is often used to make sweet and savory dishes. This recipe features two different ways to enjoy sticky rice: as a sweet dessert with red bean paste filling, and as a savory dish with Chinese sausage and mushrooms. Both are delicious and easy to make, and are sure to become a favorite in your household.
12of 20
Tang Yuan, Chinese glutinous rice balls (汤圆)
Main Ingredients: Black Sesame Seeds, Sugar, Lard, Glutinous Rice Flour
Tang yuan are small glutinous rice balls that are often served in a sweet soup or broth for dessert. They are a popular dish during the Lantern Festival in China and are also enjoyed during other special occasions. These rice balls are filled with a variety of sweet fillings, such as black sesame or red bean paste, and are a delicious and comforting treat. They are also fun to make and can be enjoyed by the whole family.
13of 20
Hand-Torn Flat Cabbage With Chinese Sausage and Garlic
Main Ingredients: Cabbage, Chinese Sausage, Lard, Rapeseed Oil, Garlic
This simple yet flavorful dish features hand-torn cabbage cooked with Chinese sausage and garlic. The cabbage is stir-fried until tender and slightly caramelized, and the Chinese sausage adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish. It's a quick and easy side dish that pairs well with any Chinese meal, and can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy lunch option.
14of 20
Bak Chor Mee (肉脞面), Singaporean Chinese Noodles
Main Ingredients: Egg Noodles, Beansprouts, Mince, Light Soy Sauce
Bak chor mee, also known as minced meat noodles, is a popular dish in Singapore that has its roots in Chinese cuisine. It features egg noodles topped with a flavorful mixture of minced pork, mushrooms, and other toppings like fish cake or meatballs. The dish is often served with a flavorful broth and can be customized with your choice of noodles and toppings. It's a comforting and delicious dish that is a must-try for any Chinese food lover.
Almond cookies are a popular dessert in many Chinese restaurants. The cookies are crispy and buttery, with a slight almond flavor. They are often served as a complimentary dessert at the end of a meal, and are also popular as a snack or gift during Chinese New Year. These cookies are easy to make and are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed at any time.
16of 20
Stir-fried Rice with Soy Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Egg Yolks, Soy Sauce, Dark Soy Sauce
This simple yet tasty dish is a staple in many Chinese households. It's made by stir-frying cooked rice with a variety of vegetables and seasonings, including soy sauce. The result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish. It's a great way to use up leftover rice and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and protein.
These traditional Chinese cookies are made with almond flour, giving them a rich and nutty flavor. They are often served during special occasions, such as Chinese New Year, and are also popular as a gift or snack. The cookies are crispy and lightly sweetened, making them a delicious and addictive treat. They are also gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
18of 20
Old-Fashioned Chinese Almond Cookies
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Powdered Sugar, Cornstarch, Baking
This recipe for almond cookies takes a more traditional approach, using whole almonds instead of almond flour. The result is a cookie with a slightly nuttier and more rustic flavor. The cookies are also rolled in sesame seeds before baking, adding a unique texture and flavor. They are a delicious and nostalgic treat that will transport you to the flavors of old-fashioned Chinese desserts.
19of 20
Mole Coloradito
Main Ingredients: Dried Chiles, Roma Tomatoes, Onion, Garlic Cloves
This Mexican-inspired mole sauce has its roots in Chinese cuisine. It is made from a blend of chili peppers, spices, and chocolate, giving it a rich and complex flavor. The sauce is often served over meats, such as chicken or pork, and can also be used as a dipping sauce for tortilla chips or vegetables. It's a delicious fusion of Chinese and Mexican flavors that is sure to impress.
20of 20
Chinese Meat Filled Buns (Baozi)
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Spring Onions, Shiitake Mushrooms, Fresh
Baozi, also known as steamed buns or bao, are a popular Chinese street food. They are made from a soft and fluffy dough that is filled with a savory meat filling, such as pork or beef. The buns are steamed until they are cooked through and have a juicy and flavorful filling. They are a popular snack or breakfast option in China, and are also enjoyed around the world. This recipe allows you to make your own baozi at home, so you can enjoy this delicious Chinese dish anytime you want.
Why Use Lard in Chinese Almond Cookies?
Using lard in Chinese almond cookies may seem unconventional, but it is a key ingredient that adds a distinct flavor and texture to the cookies. Lard is rendered pork fat that has been used in traditional Chinese cooking for centuries. It is a versatile and flavorful fat that is often used in savory dishes, but it also works wonders in baking. Lard has a higher melting point than butter or vegetable shortening, which allows the cookies to hold their shape and create a crispy exterior while remaining tender and moist on the inside. Additionally, lard has a subtle pork flavor that pairs perfectly with the almond and sesame flavors in these cookies, making them even more authentic and delicious.
The Benefits of Using Lard in Baking
Aside from its unique flavor and texture, lard also offers numerous benefits when used in baking. Unlike butter, which contains water and can cause cookies to spread and become flat, lard is 100% fat and will not affect the texture of the cookies. This makes it a great substitute for those who are lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet. Additionally, lard is naturally rich in vitamin D and has a higher smoke point than butter, making it a healthier option for frying or baking at high temperatures. It also has a longer shelf life than butter, so you can keep your Chinese almond cookies fresh for longer.
How to Make Chinese Almond Cookies with Lard
Now that you know the benefits of using lard in Chinese almond cookies, let's dive into the recipe. To make approximately 24 cookies, you will need 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of almond flour, 1/4 cup of toasted sesame seeds, 1/2 cup of lard, 1/2 cup of white sugar, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, cream together the lard and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and mix until well combined. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use a fork to press down on the cookies and create a criss-cross pattern. Sprinkle the tops with toasted sesame seeds and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let the cookies cool for a few minutes before enjoying them with a cup of hot tea.
In conclusion, using lard in Chinese almond cookies not only adds an authentic and delicious flavor, but it also offers numerous health benefits and improves the overall texture of the cookies. Give this recipe a try and impress your loved ones with your baking skills and knowledge of traditional Chinese cuisine. Happy baking!