17 Chinese Zhong Zi Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 24, 2024
Chinese zhong zi or sticky rice dumplings are a traditional dish often enjoyed during the Dragon Boat Festival in China. These delectable treats are made by wrapping glutinous rice, along with various fillings, in bamboo leaves and steaming them to perfection. While there are many variations of zhong zi across different regions of China, the basic recipe remains the same. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of making this delicious dish and provide tips for achieving the perfect zhong zi every time.
If you're a fan of Chinese takeout, then you'll love this beer can chicken recipe. The combination of sweet and tangy orange sauce with juicy chicken is a match made in heaven. Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and orange juice for a few hours or overnight. Then, place the chicken on a beer can and cook it on the grill or in the oven. Serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
This classic Chinese dish is made even better with the addition of beer can chicken. The tender chicken pairs perfectly with the savory beef and crisp broccoli. To make this dish, marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and garlic. Then, cook it on the beer can and toss it with sliced beef and stir-fried broccoli. Serve over noodles or rice for a hearty and delicious meal.
No Chinese meal is complete without a side of fried rice. This beer can chicken recipe takes it to the next level by incorporating the chicken into the dish. Start by cooking the chicken on the beer can and then shred the meat. In a wok or large pan, sauté garlic, ginger, and vegetables before adding the shredded chicken and cooked rice. Mix in soy sauce and sesame oil for added flavor. Serve as a side dish or add in shrimp or other proteins for a complete meal.
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Chinese Chicken Thighs
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Olive Oil, Minced Ginger, Minced
For a twist on traditional beer can chicken, try using chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken. The dark meat of the thighs adds a rich and juicy flavor to the dish. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and honey before cooking it on the beer can. Serve with steamed vegetables and rice for a simple and delicious meal.
This recipe combines the flavors of Chinese orange chicken and beef and broccoli for a tasty and unique dish. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and ginger before cooking it on the beer can. When the chicken is almost done, add in broccoli and a homemade orange sauce. Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
This beer can chicken recipe puts a twist on the classic Chinese soup by incorporating the chicken into the dish. Start by cooking the chicken on the beer can and then shredding the meat. In a pot, simmer chicken broth, ginger, and soy sauce before adding in beaten eggs and the shredded chicken. Serve with green onions and cilantro for a comforting and flavorful soup.
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Classic Pork Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout favorite
Main Ingredients: Hot Water, Honey, Sesame Oil, Shaoxing Wine, Soy Sauce
This beer can chicken recipe is a take on the classic Chinese takeout dish - pork fried rice. The tender and flavorful chicken pairs perfectly with the crispy rice and savory pork. Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic. Then, cook it on the beer can and shred the meat. In a wok or large pan, stir-fry the rice, pork, and vegetables. Mix in the shredded chicken and drizzle with oyster sauce for added flavor.
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Egg Fried Rice - An Easy Chinese
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Large Eggs, Paprika, Turmeric, Oil, Medium
Another popular Chinese takeout dish is egg fried rice. This beer can chicken recipe adds a twist to the classic dish by incorporating the chicken into the rice. Start by cooking the chicken on the beer can and then shredding the meat. In a wok or large pan, saute garlic, ginger, and vegetables before adding in the shredded chicken and cooked rice. Crack in eggs and mix until fully cooked. Serve as a side dish or add in shrimp or other proteins for a complete meal.
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Fried Chicken Wings, Chinese Takeout Style
Main Ingredients: Chicken Wings, Black Pepper, White Pepper, Garlic
For a fun and tasty appetizer, try these beer can chicken wings with a Chinese twist. Marinate the chicken wings in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and garlic before cooking them on the beer can. Serve with a homemade sweet and sour sauce or Chinese plum sauce for dipping.
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Chinese Broccoli Beef
Main Ingredients: Sirloin Steak, Soy Sauce, Cornstarch, Freshly Ground
This beer can chicken recipe combines the flavors of Chinese broccoli beef into one delicious dish. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic before cooking it on the beer can. In a wok or large pan, stir-fry beef, broccoli, and onions before adding in the shredded chicken. Serve over noodles or rice for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
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Zongzi
Main Ingredients: Bamboo Leaves, Sticky Rice, Light Soy Sauce, Salt
Zongzi, also known as Chinese sticky rice dumplings, is a traditional dish often enjoyed during the Dragon Boat Festival. This beer can chicken recipe puts a twist on the classic dish by incorporating the chicken into the rice. Start by cooking the chicken on the beer can and then shredding the meat. In a pot, simmer sticky rice, mushrooms, and Chinese sausage before adding in the shredded chicken. Wrap the mixture in bamboo leaves and steam until fully cooked. Serve with soy sauce or Chinese chili sauce for dipping.
Egg rolls are a popular Chinese appetizer, and this beer can chicken recipe adds a unique twist to the classic dish. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and ginger before cooking it on the beer can. Shred the meat and mix it with vegetables and soy sauce. Roll the mixture in egg roll wrappers and fry until crispy. Serve with duck sauce or 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
For another take on the classic beef fried rice dish, try this beer can chicken recipe. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and garlic before cooking it on the beer can. Shred the meat and set aside. In a wok or large pan, stir-fry beef, vegetables, and rice before adding in the shredded chicken. Drizzle with oyster sauce or soy sauce for added flavor.
This beer can chicken recipe puts a twist on the popular Chinese BBQ pork dish. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and Chinese five-spice powder before cooking it on the beer can. Shred the meat and mix it with a homemade BBQ sauce or store-bought char siu sauce. Serve over noodles or rice for a tasty and unique meal.
This simple and flavorful stir fry is a staple in Chinese cuisine, and this beer can chicken recipe makes it even better. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and garlic before cooking it on the beer can. Shred the meat and set aside. In a wok or large pan, stir-fry vegetables and cooked rice before adding in the shredded chicken. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil for added flavor.
No Chinese takeout meal is complete without sweet and sour chicken, and this beer can chicken recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey before cooking it on the beer can. Shred the meat and mix it with a homemade sweet and sour sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a delicious and tangy meal.
This beer can chicken recipe puts a twist on the classic Chinese honey prawns dish. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and garlic before cooking it on the beer can. Shred the meat and set aside. In a wok or large pan, stir-fry prawns, vegetables, and cooked rice before adding in the shredded chicken. Drizzle with extra honey and soy sauce for added sweetness.
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Homemade Chinese Fried Noodles
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Chinese Chives, Medium Carrot, Shredded
This beer can chicken recipe adds a twist to the classic Chinese fried noodles dish by incorporating the chicken into the noodles. Start by cooking the chicken on the beer can and then shredding the meat. In a wok or large pan, stir-fry vegetables and cooked noodles before adding in the shredded chicken. Mix in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil for added flavor. Serve as a side dish or add in shrimp or other proteins for a complete meal.
This simple and flavorful dish is a staple in Chinese cuisine, and this beer can chicken recipe adds a unique twist. Start by cooking the chicken on the beer can and then shredding the meat. In a wok or large pan, stir-fry green beans, garlic, and ginger before adding in the shredded chicken. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil for added flavor. Serve as a side dish or add in tofu or other proteins for a complete meal.
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Chinese Eggplant with Spicy Garlic Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cooking Oil, Eggplant, Garlic, Red Chile Pepper, Fresh
This beer can chicken recipe puts a twist on the classic Chinese eggplant with spicy garlic sauce dish. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, chili paste, and garlic before cooking it on the beer can. Shred the meat and set aside. In a wok or large pan, stir-fry eggplant, garlic, and chili paste before adding in the shredded chicken. Serve over noodles or rice for a flavorful and spicy meal.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin making zhong zi, it is important to gather all the necessary ingredients. The main ingredient, glutinous rice, is also known as sticky rice or sweet rice. You will also need bamboo leaves, which can be found in most Asian supermarkets. As for the filling, there are endless possibilities. Some popular options include pork belly, Chinese sausage, salted egg yolk, and chestnuts. Other ingredients such as dried shrimp, mushrooms, and mung beans can also be added for extra flavor and texture. Don't forget to also have twine or cooking string on hand to tie the zhong zi together.
Soak the Rice and Bamboo Leaves
To achieve the perfect texture of sticky rice, it is essential to soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. This will allow the rice to absorb enough water and become plump and tender when cooked. Similarly, the bamboo leaves should be soaked in hot water for at least an hour to soften them and make them easier to work with.
Prepare the Filling
While the rice and leaves are soaking, you can prepare the filling. If using pork belly or Chinese sausage, they should be marinated with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other seasonings for added flavor. Hard-boiled salted egg yolks should be sliced and chestnuts should be boiled until tender. Once the filling is ready, it's time to assemble the zhong zi.
Wrap and Steam the Zhong Zi
Start by taking two bamboo leaves and overlapping them to create a cone. Add a spoonful of soaked rice into the cone and press it down to create a base. Next, add a layer of filling and cover it with more rice. Fold the leaves over to enclose the filling and secure it with twine or cooking string. Repeat this process until all the ingredients have been used. Place the zhong zi in a steamer and steam for 1-2 hours until the rice is fully cooked and the filling is heated through.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the zhong zi is steamed, remove them from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes before unwrapping them. The leaves can be removed and the zhong zi can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of soy sauce for dipping. They can also be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated in a steamer before serving.
Now that you know the basics of making Chinese zhong zi, you can get creative with different fillings and even experiment with different wrapping techniques. With a little practice, you'll be able to make these traditional treats like a pro. So gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family and friends with your homemade zhong zi.
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