20 Chinese Black Eye Cake Recipe Discover Culinary Perfection!
Published on: Mar 22, 2024
Chinese black eye cake, also known as "hei yan bing" in Mandarin, is a popular dessert that originated from the Hakka culture in China. Made with simple ingredients such as black-eyed peas, sugar, and flour, this cake is a staple in many Chinese households during special occasions and festivals. This delicacy has a soft and fluffy texture with a slightly sweet taste, making it a favorite among both children and adults. In this article, we will dive into the history of this traditional cake and provide you with a step-by-step recipe to recreate it in your own kitchen.
One of the most popular dishes in Chinese cuisine, Chinese Orange Chicken is a sweet and tangy combination of crispy fried chicken and an aromatic orange sauce. The crispy chicken is coated in a light, airy batter and then tossed in the flavorful sauce, creating a dish that is sure to please any crowd.
A classic Chinese dish, Beef and Broccoli is a perfect balance of tender beef and crunchy broccoli in a rich, savory sauce. The key to this dish is to use high-quality beef that is thinly sliced and cooked quickly, resulting in a tender and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed on its own or with steamed rice.
Fried rice is a staple dish in Chinese cuisine, and for good reason. It is a versatile dish that can be made with various meats and vegetables, making it a go-to recipe for using up leftovers. The key to a good fried rice is using day-old rice, which helps achieve the perfect texture and prevents the dish from becoming too mushy.
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Chinese Chicken Thighs
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Olive Oil, Minced Ginger, Minced
Chicken thighs are a budget-friendly and flavorful option for any meal, and in Chinese cuisine, they are often used in stir-fries and braised dishes. The dark meat of chicken thighs holds up well to bold flavors and stays moist and tender when cooked properly. Try marinating the chicken thighs in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and spices for an extra burst of flavor.
Similar to Beef and Broccoli, this dish swaps out the beef for chicken, making it a lighter and healthier option. The key to this dish is to use thinly sliced chicken breast and to cook it quickly over high heat to prevent it from becoming tough. The broccoli adds a nice crunch and freshness to the dish.
A simple and comforting soup, Egg Drop Soup is a staple in Chinese cuisine. It consists of a flavorful broth that is thickened with beaten eggs, resulting in delicate ribbons of egg throughout the soup. This soup can be enjoyed on its own or as a starter to a larger meal.
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Classic Pork Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout favorite
Main Ingredients: Hot Water, Honey, Sesame Oil, Shaoxing Wine, Soy Sauce
This dish is a staple in Chinese takeout and is loved by many for its simplicity and deliciousness. The combination of fluffy rice, tender pork, and a mix of vegetables creates a satisfying and flavorful meal. The key to this dish is to cook the rice beforehand and let it cool to achieve the perfect texture.
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Egg Fried Rice - An Easy Chinese
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Large Eggs, Paprika, Turmeric, Oil, Medium
A twist on the classic fried rice, Egg Fried Rice is a simple and easy dish to make at home. The scrambled eggs add a nice protein boost to the dish, making it a great option for a quick and filling meal. Add in your choice of vegetables and protein for a well-rounded meal.
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Black-eye Pea Salad
Main Ingredients: Blackeye Peas, Red Onion, Yellow Bell Pepper, Green
This Chinese-style salad is a refreshing and healthy option for a summer meal. The black-eye peas provide a good source of protein and the addition of fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing creates a delicious and colorful dish. Serve it as a side dish or add some grilled chicken for a complete meal.
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Fried Chicken Wings, Chinese Takeout Style
Main Ingredients: Chicken Wings, Black Pepper, White Pepper, Garlic
A popular dish in Chinese takeout, Fried Chicken Wings are a crispy and flavorful option for any occasion. The key to this dish is to marinate the wings beforehand and then fry them to achieve a crispy texture. Serve them with a side of spicy chili sauce for an extra kick.
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Chinese Broccoli Beef
Main Ingredients: Sirloin Steak, Soy Sauce, Cornstarch, Freshly Ground
A twist on the classic Beef and Broccoli, this dish combines the bold flavors of Chinese-style beef with the added nutrition of broccoli. The key to this dish is to use high-quality beef and to cook it quickly over high heat to achieve a tender and flavorful result.
Egg rolls are a classic Chinese appetizer, and they are surprisingly easy to make at home. The crispy exterior and flavorful filling make these a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. Serve them with a side of sweet and sour sauce for dipping.
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Classic Beef Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout
Main Ingredients: Flank Steak, Salt, Water, Baking Soda, Dark Soy Sauce
Similar to Pork Fried Rice, this dish swaps out the pork for beef, making it a heartier option. The key to this dish is to use thinly sliced beef and to cook it quickly over high heat to achieve a tender and flavorful result. Serve it as a main dish or as a side to your favorite Chinese entree.
Also known as Char Siu, Chinese BBQ Pork is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine. The pork is marinated in a flavorful sauce and then roasted to achieve a charred and caramelized exterior while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. Serve it over rice or add it to noodle dishes for a delicious meal.
Stir-fries are a staple in Chinese cuisine, and this dish is a versatile and easy option for a quick and flavorful meal. The key to a good stir-fry is to use high heat and to cook the ingredients in batches, ensuring that everything is cooked evenly. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Sweet and Sour Chicken is a classic Chinese dish that is loved for its tangy and sweet flavors. The chicken is coated in a crispy batter and then tossed in a flavorful sauce, creating a dish that is sure to please any crowd. Serve it over rice for a complete meal.
A popular dish in Chinese cuisine, Honey Prawns combine the sweetness of honey with the savory flavors of shrimp. The key to this dish is to use high-quality prawns and to cook them quickly to prevent them from becoming tough. Serve them over rice or add them to noodle dishes for a delicious meal.
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Chinese Black Pepper Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Bell Pepper, Celery, Spring Onions
A flavorful and spicy dish, Black Pepper Chicken is a simple and easy option for a delicious meal. The key to this dish is to use a combination of black and white pepper for a well-rounded flavor. Serve it over rice or add it to noodle dishes for a complete meal.
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Chinese Rice Cake—Bai Tang Gao
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Water, Yeast, Warm Water, Sugar, Oil
A traditional Chinese dessert, Rice Cake is a soft and chewy cake that is made from rice flour and sugar. It is steamed and then topped with a sweet and savory sauce, creating a delicious and unique dessert. Serve it as a sweet treat after a meal.
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Chinese Eggplant with Spicy Garlic Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cooking Oil, Eggplant, Garlic, Red Chile Pepper, Fresh
Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that is commonly used in Chinese cuisine. This dish combines the smoky flavor of eggplant with a spicy and garlicky sauce, creating a delicious and flavorful dish. Serve it as a side or add it to stir-fries for a well-rounded meal.
The History of Chinese Black Eye Cake
The origin of Chinese black eye cake can be traced back to the early 19th century in Guangdong, China. It was created by the Hakka people, an ethnic group known for their resilience and resourcefulness in adapting to new environments. With limited resources, the Hakka people used black-eyed peas, a cheap and plentiful ingredient, to create a simple yet delicious dessert. Over time, this humble cake gained popularity and became a symbol of the Hakka culture. Today, it is not only enjoyed in China but also in other parts of the world where the Hakka diaspora has spread.
The Nutritional Benefits of Black-Eyed Peas
Apart from being a cultural delicacy, Chinese black eye cake also has numerous nutritional benefits. The main ingredient, black-eyed peas, is a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthier option for dessert. Additionally, black-eyed peas are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help improve heart health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. So not only is Chinese black eye cake delicious, but it is also a nutritious treat for your body.
How to Make Chinese Black Eye Cake
Now that you know the history and health benefits of Chinese black eye cake, it's time to learn how to make it. The recipe is surprisingly simple, and you may already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. You will need 2 cups of cooked black-eyed peas, 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 egg, and 1/2 cup of milk. Start by blending the cooked black-eyed peas until smooth, then add in the sugar, flour, baking powder, egg, and milk. Mix everything together until well combined, then pour the batter into a greased cake pan. Bake for 30-40 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool before serving and enjoy the sweet and fluffy taste of Chinese black eye cake.
In conclusion, Chinese black eye cake is not just a dessert, but a representation of the rich culture and resourcefulness of the Hakka people. Its simple yet delicious taste and nutritional benefits make it a must-try for anyone looking to expand their culinary horizons. So why not give this traditional recipe a try and experience the taste of China in the comfort of your own home? Get ready to impress your family and friends with this authentic Chinese dessert!