16 Chinese Dried Radish Recipe Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Mar 20, 2024
Chinese dried radish, also known as "chai po" or "tianjin preserved vegetable", is a staple ingredient in Chinese cuisine. These salty, earthy, and pungent dried radishes are commonly used as a flavoring agent in stir-fries, soups, and other dishes. They add a unique umami flavor and can elevate the taste of any dish. In this article, we will explore the history and benefits of Chinese dried radish and provide a delicious recipe for you to try at home. So, let's dive into the world of Chinese dried radish and discover its savory secrets.
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Olive Oil, Buns
These Chinese Chicken Steam Buns are a perfect fusion of traditional Chinese flavors and modern cooking techniques. The tender buns are filled with juicy chicken and topped with a savory sauce, making them a delicious and unique addition to any meal. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to make at home.
Celebrate Chinese New Year with this mouth-watering dish! The tender, flavorful chicken is infused with aromatic Chinese spices and served with a delicious dipping sauce. It's a must-have for any Chinese New Year feast.
Brighten up your next summer barbecue with this Chinese Grilled Chicken Salad. The juicy grilled chicken is perfectly complemented by the crunchy vegetables and tangy dressing. It's a refreshing and healthy dish that will be sure to impress your guests.
This Chinese Steamed Carrot Cake is a unique twist on the classic dessert. The soft, moist cake is infused with Chinese flavors and topped with a creamy frosting, making it a delicious and unexpected treat.
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Chinese Chicken with Radish
Main Ingredients: Radish, Chicken Breast, Black Fungus, Egg White, Green
This Chinese Chicken with Radish dish is a traditional favorite. The tender chicken is cooked with fragrant spices and served with crisp, flavorful radishes. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for any night of the week.
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Fun Guo (Chinese Pork Dumplings)
Main Ingredients: Radish, Mushroom, Minced Pork, Baking Powder, Sugar
These Fun Guo, or Chinese Pork Dumplings, are a fun and tasty way to enjoy classic Chinese flavors. The tender dumplings are filled with a savory pork filling and served with a flavorful dipping sauce. They're perfect for a party or as a snack.
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Low Carb Chinese Chicken Salad
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs, Water, Garlic
For those following a low carb diet, this Chinese Chicken Salad is a delicious and satisfying option. The tender chicken is paired with fresh vegetables and tossed in a light, flavorful dressing. It's a guilt-free way to enjoy the flavors of Chinese cuisine.
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Chinese Chicken Kale Salad with Peanut Dressing
Main Ingredients: Kale, Carrots, Edamame, Jicama, Radishes, Orange
This Chinese Chicken Kale Salad is a healthy and flavorful twist on a classic dish. The nutrient-rich kale is paired with tender chicken and tossed in a creamy peanut dressing. It's a delicious and nutritious option for any meal.
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Green Beans with Chinese Preserved Radish Stir Fry
Main Ingredients: Green Beans, Radish, Cooking Oil, Ground Chicken
This Green Beans with Chinese Preserved Radish Stir Fry is a tasty side dish that's full of flavor. The green beans are cooked with fragrant Chinese preserved radishes and tossed in a savory sauce. It's a quick and easy dish that's perfect for any occasion.
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Dim Sum Classic – Turnip Cake (蘿蔔糕)
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Radish, Shiitake Mushroom, Dried Shrimp
This Dim Sum Classic Turnip Cake is a must-try for any dim sum lover. The soft, savory cake is made with turnips and other flavorful ingredients, and steamed to perfection. It's a delicious and authentic addition to any dim sum spread.
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Dan Dan Noodles , The Bastardized Version
Main Ingredients: Shanghai Noodles, Water, Chicken Broth, Chilli Flakes
Put a twist on the classic Dan Dan Noodles with this unique "bastardized" version. The noodles are tossed in a spicy, flavorful sauce and topped with tender chicken. It's a delicious and easy way to enjoy this popular Chinese dish.
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Beijing’s Signature Noodles (炸酱面)
Main Ingredients: Yellow Soybean Paste, Sweet Bean Sauce, Water, Cooking
Beijing's Signature Noodles, or 炸酱面, are a popular street food in China. The thick, chewy noodles are coated in a savory sauce and topped with crispy pork. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for any noodle lover.
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Hong Kong Style Radish Cake
Main Ingredients: Radish, Chinese Sausage, Mushroom, Shrimps, Dried
This Hong Kong Style Radish Cake is a must-try for any dim sum lover. The soft, savory cake is made with radishes and other flavorful ingredients, and steamed to perfection. It's a delicious and authentic addition to any dim sum spread.
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Instant Pot Sweet & Tangy Chicken
Main Ingredients: Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice, Tamari, Raw Honey
This Instant Pot Sweet & Tangy Chicken is a quick and easy way to enjoy the flavors of Chinese cuisine. The tender chicken is cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights.
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Char Koay Kak (Fried Radish Cake) 怀旧炒罗卜糕
Main Ingredients: Radish, Rice Flour, Tapioca Flour, Wheat Starch, Water
This Char Koay Kak, or Fried Radish Cake, is a popular dish in Malaysia and Singapore. The soft, savory cake is stir-fried with fragrant spices and topped with flavorful toppings. It's a delicious and unique way to enjoy radish cake.
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Braised Chicken with Radish
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Ginger, Garlic, Shiitake Mushrooms
This Braised Chicken with Radish dish is a comforting and satisfying meal. The tender chicken is cooked with fragrant spices and paired with soft, flavorful radishes. It's a hearty and delicious dish that's perfect for cooler weather.
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How to Make Vegan Teochew Crystal Dumpling
Main Ingredients: Firm Tofu, King Oyster Mushrooms, Carrot, Celery, Water
This recipe for Vegan Teochew Crystal Dumplings is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy traditional Chinese flavors in a plant-based way. The crystal dumplings are filled with vegetables and steamed to perfection. They're a tasty and healthy option for any meal.
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Braised Kimchi, Radish and Pork Ribs (Instant Pot +...
Main Ingredients: Pork Ribs, Ginger, Garlic, Shaoxing Wine, Radish, Salt
This Braised Kimchi, Radish, and Pork Ribs dish is a twist on a classic Korean dish. The tender pork ribs are cooked with spicy kimchi and soft, flavorful radishes, making it a delicious and unique fusion dish.
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Turnip Cake/Radish Cake
Main Ingredients: White Turnip, Rice Flour, Wheat Starch, Chinese
This Turnip Cake, or Radish Cake, is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine. The soft, savory cake is made with turnips and other flavorful ingredients, and steamed to perfection. It's a delicious and authentic addition to any meal.
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Sichuan Style Braised Radish Carrot Pork
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Carrot, Radish, Sichuan Peppercorn
This Sichuan Style Braised Radish Carrot Pork is a flavorful and comforting dish. The tender pork is cooked with fragrant spices and paired with soft, flavorful radishes and carrots. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.
History of Chinese Dried Radish
The Origins
Chinese dried radish has been a part of Chinese cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Tianjin, a city in northern China, during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Back then, it was used as a way to preserve radishes so that they could be enjoyed throughout the year. Dried radish was also a popular food among traveling merchants and soldiers, as it was easy to carry and could be eaten as a quick snack. Its popularity spread throughout China and eventually became a common ingredient in many dishes.
The Production Process
The process of making Chinese dried radish is quite simple. Fresh radishes are first shredded and then mixed with salt. The mixture is then left to ferment and dry in the sun for several days. The drying process enhances the flavor and gives the radish a chewy texture. Once dried, the radish is packed and ready to be used in various dishes.
Benefits of Chinese Dried Radish
Nutritional Value
Chinese dried radish is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, calcium, and potassium. It also contains dietary fiber, which is essential for a healthy digestive system. In addition, dried radish is low in calories and fat, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.
Flavor Enhancer
One of the main benefits of Chinese dried radish is its ability to enhance the flavor of dishes. Its salty and savory taste adds depth and complexity to any dish. It can also balance out the sweetness in certain dishes, such as stir-fries, and add a delicious umami flavor.
Preservative Properties
As mentioned earlier, Chinese dried radish was traditionally used as a way to preserve radishes. Its salt content helps prevent spoilage and allows the radish to be stored for long periods of time. This makes it a convenient ingredient to have on hand, especially for those who enjoy cooking Chinese cuisine.
Chinese Dried Radish Recipe
Now that you know about the history and benefits of Chinese dried radish, let's try a simple and delicious recipe that incorporates this flavorful ingredient.
Stir-Fried Chinese Dried Radish with Beef
Ingredients:
1 cup Chinese dried radish, soaked in water for 10 minutes and drained
1 pound beef, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon oil
Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix the beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Let it marinate for 15 minutes.
Heat oil in a wok or pan over high heat. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until cooked through.
Add the soaked Chinese dried radish and continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot with rice or noodles.
In conclusion, Chinese dried radish is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that has been a part of Chinese cuisine for centuries. Its unique taste and nutritional benefits make it a must-try for any food lover. So, next time you're looking to add some umami flavor to your dishes, don't forget to reach for some Chinese dried radish.
