18 Chinese Herbal Porridge Recipe Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!
Published on: Mar 23, 2024
Chinese herbal porridge, also known as "zhōng cǎo zhōu" in Mandarin, is a traditional Chinese dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a nourishing and comforting meal that is often consumed for its medicinal properties and health benefits. This porridge is typically made with a combination of herbs, grains, and other ingredients, and is believed to promote overall wellness and balance in the body. In this article, we will explore the history and cultural significance of Chinese herbal porridge, as well as provide a simple and delicious recipe for you to try at home.
If you're a fan of Chinese takeout, then you have probably tried the popular dish, Orange Chicken. But have you ever thought about making it at home? With this recipe, you can recreate the sweet and tangy flavors of Chinese Orange Chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen.
This recipe starts with marinating chicken thighs in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and orange juice. This allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors before being coated in a crispy cornstarch and flour coating and fried to golden perfection.
The real star of this dish is the homemade orange sauce, made with fresh orange juice, garlic, and ginger. The sauce is then thickened with a cornstarch slurry and poured over the crispy chicken. Serve with steamed rice and sesame seeds for an authentic Chinese Orange Chicken experience.
Beef and Broccoli is a classic Chinese dish that is loved by many. With this recipe, you can make it at home in just 30 minutes. Tender strips of beef are marinated in a blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch to give it that signature Chinese flavor.
The broccoli is quickly stir-fried in a hot pan with garlic and ginger before being tossed with the beef and a savory sauce made with oyster sauce and hoisin sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the broccoli.
For an extra boost of flavor and texture, top this dish with sliced green onions and roasted cashews. Serve over a bed of steamed rice for a satisfying and healthy Chinese meal.
Fried rice is a staple in Chinese cuisine and can be made with a variety of ingredients. This recipe uses eggs, carrots, peas, and scallions for a colorful and flavorful dish.
Cooked white rice is stir-fried with the vegetables and seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil. For added protein, you can also add diced chicken or shrimp to the rice.
The key to making perfect Chinese fried rice is using leftover rice that has been chilled in the fridge. This prevents the rice from becoming mushy and ensures that each grain is separated and coated in the delicious sauce.
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Chinese Chicken Thighs
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Olive Oil, Minced Ginger, Minced
If you're tired of the same old chicken breast, give this Chinese Chicken Thighs recipe a try. Chicken thighs are marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made with hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar, then grilled to perfection.
This dish is great for a summer barbecue or can be cooked indoors on a grill pan. The result is tender and juicy chicken with a caramelized and flavorful exterior.
Serve with steamed rice and steamed vegetables for a complete and healthy meal. You can also use the leftover chicken in a stir-fry or salad the next day for a delicious lunch.
If you love the combination of chicken and broccoli, then this Chinese Chicken and Broccoli recipe is a must-try. Tender chunks of chicken breast are stir-fried with broccoli florets in a savory garlic and ginger sauce.
The key to making this dish is to cook the chicken and broccoli separately before combining them in the sauce. This ensures that the chicken is cooked to perfection and the broccoli retains its crunch.
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious as it is packed with protein and vitamins from the chicken and broccoli. Serve over a bed of steamed rice for a complete meal.
This Chinese Egg Drop Soup recipe is the perfect appetizer for any Chinese meal. It is also a great option for a light lunch or dinner. Made with chicken broth, cornstarch, and eggs, this soup is simple yet flavorful.
The eggs are beaten and slowly poured into the hot broth, creating thin strands that give the soup its name. For added flavor and texture, you can also add tofu cubes or shredded chicken to the soup.
Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro for a burst of freshness. This soup is a great way to warm up on a chilly day or to start off a Chinese feast.
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Classic Pork Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout favorite
Main Ingredients: Hot Water, Honey, Sesame Oil, Shaoxing Wine, Soy Sauce
Another classic Chinese dish that is a favorite in takeout menus is Pork Fried Rice. This recipe uses pork tenderloin instead of the traditional ham for a leaner and more flavorful option.
The pork is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic before being stir-fried with cooked white rice and vegetables.
This dish is a great way to use up leftover rice and can be served as a main course or as a side dish. Top with a fried egg for a tasty and filling meal.
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Egg Fried Rice - An Easy Chinese
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Large Eggs, Paprika, Turmeric, Oil, Medium
Another variation of fried rice is Egg Fried Rice, which is a staple in Chinese households. This dish is made with scrambled eggs and green onions tossed with cooked white rice and seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil.
This dish is not only easy to make but also a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables. You can add any additional protein such as shrimp, chicken, or beef to make it a more substantial meal.
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor. This Egg Fried Rice is sure to become a family favorite.
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Congee (chinese Rice Porridge)
Main Ingredients: Rice, Fresh Ginger, Garlic, Water, Dried Shiitake
Congee, also known as Chinese Rice Porridge, is a staple in Chinese cuisine and is often served for breakfast. This comforting dish is made with rice and water and can be eaten plain or with a variety of toppings.
For added flavor, you can also cook the congee with chicken broth instead of water. Toppings can range from scallions and cilantro to pork floss and preserved eggs.
Congee is not only delicious but also easy to digest, making it a great option for those with upset stomachs. It is also a great way to use up leftover rice.
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Fried Chicken Wings, Chinese Takeout Style
Main Ingredients: Chicken Wings, Black Pepper, White Pepper, Garlic
Craving some Chinese takeout but want to switch it up from the usual dishes? Give these Fried Chicken Wings a try. These crispy and flavorful wings are coated in a cornstarch and flour mixture before being fried to perfection.
The secret to making these wings extra delicious is the Chinese five-spice powder used in the coating. This spice blend is made with cinnamon, cloves, star anise, fennel, and Szechuan peppercorns and gives the wings that signature Chinese flavor.
Serve with a side of homemade sweet and sour sauce for dipping and you'll have a new favorite Chinese takeout dish.
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Chinese Broccoli Beef
Main Ingredients: Sirloin Steak, Soy Sauce, Cornstarch, Freshly Ground
Beef and broccoli are a match made in heaven, and this Chinese Broccoli Beef recipe is no exception. Tender strips of beef sirloin are marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and stir-fried with broccoli florets.
The key to making this dish is to use a tender cut of beef and marinate it beforehand to infuse it with flavor. You can also use flank steak or skirt steak for a more budget-friendly option.
This dish is best served over a bed of steamed rice and garnished with toasted sesame seeds for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
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Congee (chinese Rice Porridge)
Main Ingredients: Jasmine Rice, Low Sodium Chicken Broth, Water
Egg rolls are a popular appetizer in Chinese restaurants, and with this recipe, you can make them at home. These crispy and flavorful egg rolls are filled with a mixture of ground pork, cabbage, and carrots.
The filling is seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil before being wrapped in egg roll wrappers and fried to a golden brown.
Serve with a side of duck sauce or sweet and sour sauce for dipping. These Chinese Egg Rolls are sure to be a hit at your next party or gathering.
Beef Fried Rice is another classic Chinese dish that is a favorite in takeout menus. This recipe uses flank steak instead of the traditional ground beef for a leaner and more flavorful option.
The beef is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch before being stir-fried with cooked white rice and vegetables.
Add a dash of chili oil for some heat or top with sliced scallions for a burst of freshness. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables.
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Classic Beef Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout
Main Ingredients: Flank Steak, Salt, Water, Baking Soda, Dark Soy Sauce
Chinese BBQ Pork, also known as Char Siu, is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine. This recipe uses pork tenderloin marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce before being grilled to perfection.
The marinade is made with a combination of hoisin sauce, honey, garlic, and five-spice powder for a burst of flavor. The result is tender and juicy pork with a sticky and caramelized exterior.
Serve with steamed rice and steamed vegetables for a complete and delicious Chinese meal. You can also use the leftover pork in sandwiches or stir-fries for a tasty lunch or dinner option.
This Chinese Chicken Stir Fry recipe is a quick and easy weeknight meal that is sure to please. Tender chicken breast is marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and stir-fried with vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
The key to making this dish is to cook the chicken separately before adding it back in with the vegetables and sauce. This ensures that the chicken is cooked to perfection and not overcooked.
Serve over a bed of steamed rice for a complete meal. You can also add a dash of chili oil for some heat or top with sesame seeds for a crunch.
Sweet and Sour Chicken is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine. This recipe uses chicken breast coated in a cornstarch and flour mixture and fried until crispy before being tossed in a sweet and tangy sauce.
The sauce is made with a combination of ketchup, honey, vinegar, and soy sauce for a perfect balance of flavors. Serve with steamed rice and pineapple chunks for an authentic Chinese takeout experience.
This dish is also a great way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables. Simply add them in with the sauce and heat until warmed through.
This Chinese Rice Porridge, also known as Congee or Jook, is a comforting and nourishing dish that is often served for breakfast or when feeling under the weather. It is made by slowly cooking rice in a large pot of water until it becomes creamy and porridge-like.
The toppings for Congee can range from scallions and cilantro to preserved eggs and pork floss. You can also add cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
This dish is not only delicious but also easy to digest, making it a great option for those with upset stomachs. It is also a great way to use up leftover rice.
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Chinese Rice Porridge Congee (Jook)
Main Ingredients: Rice, Water, Oil, Bean Curd Sticks, Chicken Stock
Honey Prawns, also known as Honey Walnut Shrimp, is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine. This recipe uses shrimp coated in a cornstarch and flour mixture and fried until crispy before being tossed in a sweet and tangy sauce.
The sauce is made with a combination of honey, mayonnaise, and condensed milk for a creamy and sweet flavor. The result is tender and juicy shrimp with a crispy and flavorful exterior.
Serve with steamed rice and candied walnuts for a delicious and indulgent Chinese meal. You can also use the leftover shrimp in a salad or wrap for a quick and tasty lunch.
Love the crispy and flavorful noodles found in Chinese restaurants? With this recipe, you can make them at home in just 15 minutes. Thin egg noodles are fried until crispy and topped with a savory sauce made with hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and oyster sauce.
The History and Cultural Significance of Chinese Herbal Porridge
Origin and Evolution of Chinese Herbal Porridge
Chinese herbal porridge has a long history, dating back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD). Initially, it was used as a medicinal meal to help treat illnesses and promote healing. Over time, it evolved into a popular dish among the general population, and different regions in China developed their own unique versions of the porridge. Today, it is still widely consumed in Chinese households and is also served in traditional Chinese medicine clinics as a part of the healing process.
The Importance of Balance in Traditional Chinese Medicine
In traditional Chinese medicine, the concept of balance is crucial to maintaining good health. This balance is believed to be achieved through the harmonious combination of yin (cold) and yang (hot) energies in the body. When these energies are out of balance, it can lead to illness and disease. Chinese herbal porridge is often used as a way to restore balance in the body, as it contains a variety of ingredients that are believed to have specific medicinal properties.
The Recipe: How to Make Chinese Herbal Porridge
To make Chinese herbal porridge, you will need a variety of herbs, grains, and other ingredients. The specific combination of ingredients can vary depending on personal preferences and health needs. However, here is a simple and delicious recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
1 cup of glutinous rice
1 cup of millet
1 cup of red beans
1 cup of dried lotus seeds
1 cup of Chinese yam
1 cup of goji berries
1 cup of dried longan
1 cup of dried dates
1 cup of dried figs
1 cup of rock sugar
Instructions:
Wash the glutinous rice, millet, red beans, and dried lotus seeds and soak them in water for at least 2 hours.
Peel and dice the Chinese yam into small cubes.
In a large pot, add the soaked grains and beans, diced Chinese yam, goji berries, dried longan, dried dates, dried figs, and enough water to cover all the ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Once the porridge has thickened and the grains and beans are soft, add rock sugar to taste and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy your nourishing Chinese herbal porridge!
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Chinese herbal porridge, also known as "zhōng cǎo zhōu" in Mandarin, is a traditional Chinese dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a nourishing and comforting meal that is often consumed for its medicinal properties and health benefits. This porridge is typically made with a combination of herbs, grains, and other ingredients, and is believed to promote overall wellness and balance in the body. In this article, we will explore the history and cultural significance of Chinese herbal porridge, as well as provide a simple and delicious recipe for you to try at home.
The History and Cultural Significance of Chinese Herbal Porridge
Origin and Evolution of Chinese Herbal Porridge
Chinese herbal porridge has a long history, dating back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD). Initially, it was used as a medicinal meal to help treat illnesses and promote healing. Over time, it evolved into a popular dish among the general population, and different regions in China developed their own unique versions of the porridge. Today, it is still widely consumed in Chinese households and is also served in traditional Chinese medicine clinics as a part of the healing process.
The Importance of Balance in Traditional Chinese Medicine
In traditional Chinese medicine, the concept of balance is crucial to maintaining good health. This balance is believed to be achieved through the harmonious combination of yin (cold) and yang (hot) energies in the body. When these energies are out of balance, it can lead to illness and disease. Chinese herbal porridge is often used as a way to restore balance in the body, as it contains a variety of ingredients that are believed to have specific medicinal properties.
The Recipe: How to Make Chinese Herbal Porridge
To make Chinese herbal porridge, you will need a variety of herbs, grains, and other ingredients. The specific combination of ingredients can vary depending on personal preferences and health needs. However, here is a simple and delicious recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
1 cup of glutinous rice
1 cup of millet
1 cup of red beans
1 cup of dried lotus seeds
1 cup of Chinese yam
1 cup of goji berries
1 cup of dried longan
1 cup of dried dates
1 cup of dried figs
1 cup of rock sugar
Instructions:
Wash the glutinous rice, millet, red beans, and dried lotus seeds and soak them in water for at least 2 hours.
Peel and dice the Chinese yam into small cubes.
In a large pot, add the soaked grains and beans, diced Chinese yam, goji berries, dried longan, dried dates, dried figs, and enough water to cover all the ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Once the porridge has thickened and the grains and beans are soft, add rock sugar to taste and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy your nourishing Chinese herbal porridge!
