Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern dip made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and various spices. However, did you know that there is also a Chinese version of this delicious dish? Chinese hummus, also known as "zhong zi hummus" in Mandarin, is a unique and flavorful twist on the classic recipe. In this article, we will explore the history and ingredients of Chinese hummus and provide you with a simple and authentic recipe to try at home.
Indulge in the bold and tangy flavors of Chinese Orange Chicken with this delicious recipe. Marinated in a sticky orange sauce and baked to perfection, this dish will have your taste buds dancing.
Start by creating a marinade for the chicken with a mixture of soy sauce, honey, orange juice, and garlic. Let the chicken soak up all the flavors for at least an hour before baking it in the oven. The end result is a juicy and flavorful dish that pairs well with steamed rice and some stir-fried vegetables.
This classic Chinese dish is a staple in many Chinese restaurants, but you can easily recreate it at home with this recipe. Tender strips of beef and crisp broccoli are coated in a savory sauce that will have you going back for seconds.
To achieve the perfect texture for the beef, make sure to slice it against the grain. This will result in tender pieces that are easy to chew. And for an extra kick of flavor, add some sliced red chili peppers to the stir-fry. Serve with a side of steamed rice for a complete meal.
Bold, colorful, and packed with flavor – Chinese fried rice is a popular dish that is loved by many. The best part? You can easily customize it with your favorite protein and vegetables.
To make this dish, start by frying some diced onion, garlic, and your choice of protein in a wok or large skillet. Once the protein is cooked, add in cooked rice, mixed vegetables, and a splash of soy sauce. Stir-fry everything together until well combined and serve hot.
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Chinese Chicken Thighs
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Olive Oil, Minced Ginger, Minced
For a succulent and flavorful chicken dish, try making Chinese chicken thighs. Marinated in a mix of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and ginger, these chicken thighs are packed with bold Asian flavors.
Bake the chicken thighs in the oven until they are fully cooked and the skin is crispy. You can also finish them off on the grill for added char and smokiness. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables and rice for a delicious and balanced meal.
If you love the combination of chicken and broccoli, then this Chinese-inspired dish is a must-try. Tender chicken breast and crisp broccoli florets are stir-fried together in a savory sauce.
For a healthier twist, you can also use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. The dish will still be just as flavorful and satisfying. And with minimal ingredients and cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Warm up on a chilly day with a bowl of comforting Chinese Egg Drop Soup. This silky smooth soup is made with chicken broth, cornstarch, and beaten eggs, and topped with green onions for added freshness.
For added protein, you can also add in some diced chicken or tofu. This soup is easy to make and can be enjoyed as a light lunch or as a starter to a Chinese-inspired meal.
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Classic Pork Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout favorite
Main Ingredients: Hot Water, Honey, Sesame Oil, Shaoxing Wine, Soy Sauce
Take your taste buds on a trip to China with this classic pork fried rice recipe. Diced pork, scrambled eggs, and mixed vegetables are fried together with rice and a splash of soy sauce to create a delicious and filling dish.
You can also switch up the protein and use chicken, beef, or shrimp instead of pork. Serve with some homemade egg rolls for the ultimate Chinese takeout experience right at home.
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Egg Fried Rice - An Easy Chinese
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Large Eggs, Paprika, Turmeric, Oil, Medium
For a simple and satisfying dish, try making egg fried rice. This dish is made with just a few ingredients, making it perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Simply fry some scrambled eggs in a wok or large skillet and set aside. In the same pan, stir-fry some cooked rice, mixed vegetables, and a splash of soy sauce. Add in the scrambled eggs and mix well. Serve hot as a side dish or add in some protein for a complete meal.
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Fried Chicken Wings, Chinese Takeout Style
Main Ingredients: Chicken Wings, Black Pepper, White Pepper, Garlic
Get your hands messy with these irresistible Chinese-style fried chicken wings. Marinated in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, these wings are fried to perfection and coated in a sticky and flavorful sauce.
For extra crispiness, coat the wings in a mixture of cornstarch and flour before frying. And don't forget to sprinkle some sesame seeds and green onions on top for added flavor and presentation.
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Chinese Broccoli Beef
Main Ingredients: Sirloin Steak, Soy Sauce, Cornstarch, Freshly Ground
For a healthier twist on the classic beef and broccoli dish, try making this Chinese broccoli beef recipe. Tender beef strips and crisp Chinese broccoli are coated in a savory sauce and served over a bed of rice.
To make the dish even healthier, you can also substitute the beef with tofu or use a lean cut of beef. This dish is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a win-win for any meal.
A Chinese takeout favorite, egg rolls are a must-try for any Chinese food lover. These crispy and savory rolls are filled with a mixture of meat, vegetables, and seasonings and then fried to perfection.
You can customize the filling to your liking, using pork, chicken, or shrimp, and adding in your favorite vegetables. Serve with some sweet and sour sauce for dipping and enjoy as an appetizer or side dish.
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Classic Beef Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout
Main Ingredients: Flank Steak, Salt, Water, Baking Soda, Dark Soy Sauce
For a hearty and satisfying meal, try making this classic beef fried rice recipe. Tender strips of beef, scrambled eggs, and mixed vegetables are stir-fried together with rice and a splash of soy sauce.
This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rice and can be easily customized with your favorite protein and vegetables. And with minimal prep and cooking time, it's a great option for busy weeknights.
For a dish that is sure to impress, try making Chinese BBQ pork at home. This dish is made with marinated pork tenderloin, roasted to perfection and topped with a sticky and sweet sauce.
The marinade for the pork is made with a combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and five-spice powder. The result is a dish that is bursting with bold and delicious flavors. Serve with some steamed vegetables and rice for a complete meal.
For a quick and easy dinner, try this Chinese chicken stir fry recipe. Tender chicken breast, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce are stir-fried together for a flavorful and colorful dish.
You can use any combination of vegetables you like, making this dish a great way to use up any leftover vegetables in your fridge. Serve with some noodles or rice for a delicious and balanced meal.
Another popular dish found in many Chinese restaurants, sweet and sour chicken is a must-try for any Chinese food lover. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a sweet and tangy sauce and served with vegetables and rice.
To achieve the perfect texture for the chicken, coat it in a mixture of cornstarch and flour before frying. The result will be crispy and tender chicken that is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
For a truly indulgent meal, try making these Chinese honey prawns. Juicy and plump prawns are coated in a honey and soy sauce mixture and then fried until golden and crispy.
You can also add some chili flakes for a touch of heat or serve with some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. This dish is sure to impress any seafood lover.
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Homemade Chinese Fried Noodles
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Chinese Chives, Medium Carrot, Shredded
Skip the takeout and make your own homemade Chinese fried noodles with this easy and delicious recipe. Dried egg noodles are stir-fried with a mix of vegetables and a savory sauce for a flavorful and satisfying dish.
You can add in some diced chicken, beef, or shrimp for added protein, or keep it vegetarian with just vegetables. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy meal any day of the week.
For a flavorful and healthy side dish, try making Chinese garlic green beans. Fresh green beans are stir-fried with garlic and a savory sauce for a dish that is full of flavor and nutrients.
This dish is quick and easy to make and pairs well with any Chinese-inspired meal. You can also add in some diced tofu or chicken for added protein.
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Chinese Eggplant with Spicy Garlic Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cooking Oil, Eggplant, Garlic, Red Chile Pepper, Fresh
If you're a fan of eggplant, then this Chinese-inspired dish is a must-try. Tender eggplant is stir-fried with a spicy garlic sauce that is packed with flavor and heat.
This dish is perfect for anyone who loves a little spice in their meals. Serve with some steamed rice for a balanced and satisfying meal.
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Sticky Chinese Pork Belly
Main Ingredients: Pork Belly, Chicken, Ginger, Garlic, Rice Wine, Caster
For a rich and indulgent meal, try making sticky Chinese pork belly. Slow-cooked until the meat is tender and the skin is crispy, this dish is a true treat for the taste buds.
The marinade for the pork belly is made with a mixture of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and five-spice powder. The result is a dish that is full of bold and delicious flavors. Serve with some steamed vegetables and rice for a complete meal.
The Origins of Chinese Hummus
From Silk Road to Modern Times
The Silk Road, a network of trade routes connecting China to the Mediterranean, played a significant role in the spread of hummus to Asia. Along with spices and other goods, hummus made its way from the Middle East to China, where it was adapted to fit local tastes and ingredients. Chinese hummus has since become a staple dish in many regions, especially in the northwestern provinces where the Silk Road passed through.
The Unique Ingredients
While the base of Chinese hummus remains the same as the traditional version, there are a few key ingredients that give it a distinctive flavor. One of these is Sichuan peppercorns, a spice known for its numbing and slightly citrusy taste. Another essential ingredient is doubanjiang, a spicy fermented bean paste commonly used in Sichuan cuisine. These ingredients add a bold and spicy kick to the hummus, elevating it to a whole new level.
The Recipe: How to Make Chinese Hummus
Now that we know a little about the origins and ingredients of Chinese hummus, let's dive into the recipe. First, gather the following ingredients: 1 can of chickpeas, 1/4 cup tahini, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of Sichuan peppercorns, 1 tablespoon of doubanjiang, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 lemon, and salt to taste.
Next, follow these simple steps:
Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then place them in a food processor.
Add the tahini, olive oil, Sichuan peppercorns, doubanjiang, and garlic cloves to the food processor.
Squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon and add a pinch of salt.
Blend all the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve the Chinese hummus with your favorite dipping vegetables, pita bread, or even as a spread on sandwiches. For an extra kick of flavor, top it with some chopped scallions and a drizzle of chili oil. Trust us; it will be a hit at your next party or gathering.
In Conclusion
Chinese hummus may be a lesser-known variation of the classic dip, but it is one that is definitely worth trying. With its unique blend of spices and bold flavors, it is a perfect fusion of Middle Eastern and Chinese cuisine. So next time you're craving some hummus, why not give this Chinese version a try? We guarantee you won't be disappointed.
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