17 Recipe For Chinese Lions Heads You Must Try Them!
Published on: Mar 24, 2024
For many centuries, the Chinese have been known for their delicious and unique cuisine. One dish that stands out is the Chinese Lion's Head, a traditional dish often served during important celebrations and festivals. This dish is a combination of savory pork meatballs and a flavorful broth, making it a staple in Chinese households. In this article, we will be providing a step-by-step guide on how to make this delectable dish in the comfort of your own home. So put on your apron and get ready to impress your family and friends with this authentic Chinese recipe!
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Carrot, Scallions, Almond Flour, Coconut
If you're a fan of Chinese cuisine, then you've probably heard of Lion's Head Meatballs. These giant, juicy meatballs are a popular dish in Shanghai and have been gaining popularity around the world. They are named after their resemblance to a lion's head, with the meatball representing the head and the cabbage leaves representing the mane.
2of 20
Braised "Lion's Head" Meatballs with Napa Cabbage
Main Ingredients: Sesame Oil, Napa Cabbage, Enoki Mushrooms, Light Soy
This classic dish consists of large pork meatballs braised in a flavorful broth with Napa cabbage. The meatballs are seasoned with traditional Chinese ingredients such as soy sauce, ginger, and green onions, giving them a delicious savory flavor. The cabbage is tender and soaks up all the delicious broth, making it a perfect side for the meatballs.
3of 20
Lion's Head Casserole
Main Ingredients: Dried Shiitake Mushrooms, Hot Water, Pork Butt
If you're looking for a heartier version of this dish, try making Lion's Head Casserole. This recipe adds in some extra vegetables such as carrots and mushrooms, making it a more well-rounded meal. The casserole is topped with a layer of fluffy rice, making it a filling and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.
4of 20
Lion's Head Chinese Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Breadcrumbs, Eggs, Green Onions, Shaoxing
These tasty meatballs are also known as "shizi tou" in Mandarin, which translates to "lion's head." They are typically made with a combination of pork and beef, giving them a unique and delicious flavor. The meatballs are then pan-fried until golden brown and then simmered in a flavorful broth until they are juicy and tender.
5of 20
Lion’s Head (Chinese Meatballs)
Main Ingredients: Pork, Water Chestnut, Salt, Cooking Wine, Minced
This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional Lion's Head Meatballs. It uses ground pork instead of a combination of pork and beef, making it an easier and more budget-friendly option. The meatballs are still packed with flavor from the addition of green onions, ginger, and soy sauce.
6of 20
Chinese Braised Lion’s Head Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Pork Belly, Bamboo Shoot, Soy Sauce, Oyster Sauce
This recipe takes the traditional braised meatballs to the next level by adding in some unique flavor combinations. The meatballs are seasoned with Chinese five-spice powder, giving them a warm and aromatic flavor. They are then braised in a rich broth made with shiitake mushrooms and star anise, adding a depth of flavor to the dish.
7of 20
Instant Pot Chinese Pork Meatballs (Lion’s Head...
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Scallion, Large Garlic Cloves, Ginger
If you have an Instant Pot, then you have to try this recipe for Chinese Pork Meatballs. The Instant Pot makes the cooking process quick and easy, while still resulting in tender and flavorful meatballs. This recipe also includes a delicious sauce made with honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil, giving the meatballs a sweet and savory flavor.
8of 20
Chinese Lion’s Head Pork Meatballs (狮子头)
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Shaoxing Wine, Light Soy Sauce, Dark Soy
This recipe is a traditional version of the famous Shanghai dish. The meatballs are made with a combination of pork and beef, giving them a rich and hearty flavor. They are then braised in a flavorful broth made with ginger, garlic, and Chinese rice wine, making them incredibly tender and juicy.
9of 20
Lion's Head Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Sesame Oil, Dry Sherry, Ginger, Garlic
This recipe for Lion's Head Meatballs is a classic and foolproof option. It uses simple and traditional ingredients such as pork, ginger, and soy sauce, making it an easy dish to prepare. The meatballs are tender and juicy, and the broth is packed with flavor from the addition of green onions and shiitake mushrooms.
10of 20
Shanghainese Lion’s Head Meatballs.
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Sugar, Salt, Shaoxing Cooking Wine, Soy
If you want to impress your friends and family with a fancy dish, then try making Shanghainese Lion's Head Meatballs. This recipe features a unique and flavorful combination of ingredients such as water chestnuts and dried shrimp. The meatballs are then steamed and served with a delicious sauce made with hoisin sauce and oyster sauce.
11of 20
Shanghainese Lion’s Head Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Sugar, Salt, Shaoxing Cooking Wine, Soy
This version of Lion's Head Meatballs is a lighter and healthier option. Instead of being braised in a rich broth, the meatballs are steamed and served with a flavorful sauce made with low-sodium chicken broth, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. This dish is perfect for those watching their calorie intake but still craving the delicious flavors of Lion's Head Meatballs.
12of 20
Chinese Lion's Head Soup
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Egg, Cornstarch, Sesame Oil, Fresh Ginger
This soup is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for a cold day. The meatballs are cooked in a rich and flavorful broth made with chicken stock, mushrooms, and bok choy. The meatballs are juicy and tender, and the broth is packed with flavor from the addition of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce.
13of 20
Lion’s Head Pork Meatballs (獅子頭)
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Shaoxing Wine, Soy Sauce, Dark Soy Sauce
This recipe for Lion's Head Pork Meatballs is a traditional and authentic version of the dish. The meatballs are made with a combination of pork and beef, giving them a rich and hearty flavor. They are then braised in a flavorful broth made with Chinese rice wine, soy sauce, and star anise, resulting in tender and juicy meatballs.
14of 20
Slow Cooker Lion's Head Meatballs With Collard Greens
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Scallions, Soy Sauce, Sugar, Shaoxing
If you're looking for a hands-off way to make Lion's Head Meatballs, then try this recipe for Slow Cooker Lion's Head Meatballs. The meatballs are cooked in a slow cooker with a flavorful broth made with chicken stock, shiitake mushrooms, and Chinese rice wine. The collard greens are added in the last hour of cooking, making them tender and flavorful.
15of 20
Shanghainese Lion’s Head Meatballs (a Teeny Bit Better)
Main Ingredients: Bok Choy, Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil, Salt, Ground Pork
This version of Shanghainese Lion's Head Meatballs is a healthier and more nutritious option. The meatballs are made with lean ground pork and are pan-fried until golden brown. They are then simmered in a flavorful broth made with low-sodium chicken broth, ginger, and soy sauce, making them a guilt-free and delicious meal.
16of 20
Lion’s Head Meatballs (Shi Zi Tou, 狮子头)
Main Ingredients: Scallions, Ginger, Minced Pork, Minced Chicken
This recipe for Lion's Head Meatballs is a more traditional and authentic version. The meatballs are made with a combination of pork and beef and are seasoned with traditional Chinese ingredients such as green onions, ginger, and soy sauce. They are then braised in a rich and flavorful broth, resulting in tender and juicy meatballs.
17of 20
Kelly’s Lion’s Head Casserole
Main Ingredients: Napa Cabbage, Ground Pork, Soy Sauce, Scallion
This unique version of Lion's Head Casserole adds in some extra veggies for a healthier and more well-rounded dish. The casserole features a layer of sautéed spinach and mushrooms, adding a boost of nutrition and flavor. The meatballs are then cooked in a flavorful broth and topped with a layer of fluffy rice, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
18of 20
Vegan Lion’s Head Stew (素狮子头)
Main Ingredients: Firm Tofu, Mushrooms, Finely Chopped Carrot, Cashew
If you're a vegan or vegetarian, then you don't have to miss out on the delicious flavors of Lion's Head Meatballs. This recipe for Vegan Lion's Head Stew uses plant-based ingredients such as tofu and shiitake mushrooms to create a meatless version of this classic dish. The meatballs are cooked in a flavorful broth made with vegetable stock, soy sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder.
19of 20
Lion's Head Meat Balls (About 9 Large Meat Balls)
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Spring Onion, Onion, Ginger Juice, Egg
This recipe for Lion's Head Meatballs is a perfect option for a crowd. It makes about 9 large meatballs, making it a great dish for a family gathering or dinner party. The meatballs are packed with flavor from the addition of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, and are braised in a rich and flavorful broth until they are tender and juicy.
20of 20
Lion's Head Meatballs with Chinese Cabbage
Main Ingredients: Bok Choy, Green Onions, Ginger, Large Egg, Pork, Salt
This version of Lion's Head Meatballs features Chinese cabbage, giving the dish a unique and delicious twist. The meatballs are cooked in a flavorful broth made with chicken stock, ginger, and soy sauce, and the cabbage is added in the last few minutes of cooking, making it tender and flavorful. This dish is a perfect balance of protein and veggies, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
The Ingredients You'll Need
To make the perfect Chinese Lion's Head, you will need the following ingredients:
1. Ground Pork
Using freshly ground pork is crucial in this recipe as it provides the perfect texture for the meatballs. Make sure to choose pork with a good balance of fat and lean meat for the best results.
2. The Right Vegetables
While the type of vegetables used may vary, the most commonly used ones are napa cabbage, green onions, and bamboo shoots. These vegetables add a subtle sweetness and crunch to the dish, complementing the meatballs perfectly.
3. Flavors and Seasonings
Like most Chinese dishes, the seasoning is what brings all the flavors together. For this recipe, you will need soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, ginger, and garlic. These ingredients give the dish its distinct Chinese flavor and aroma.
The Preparation Process
1. Making the Meatballs
Start by mixing the ground pork with the seasonings mentioned above. Use your hands to mix and knead the meat until it becomes sticky. This will ensure that the meatballs hold their shape when cooked. Shape the meat mixture into large, golf ball-sized balls and set them aside.
2. Preparing the Broth
In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add in the chopped vegetables. Let it simmer for a few minutes before adding in the meatballs. At this point, you can also add in additional seasonings like oyster sauce and sugar to taste. Let the broth cook for about 20 minutes or until the meatballs are fully cooked.
3. Plating and Serving
Once the meatballs are cooked, it's time to plate and serve! Transfer the meatballs and vegetables into a large serving bowl and pour the broth over it. For an extra touch of authenticity, you can garnish it with chopped cilantro and a drizzle of sesame oil.
In Conclusion
The Chinese Lion's Head is a dish that is rich in flavor and steeped in tradition. With this recipe, you can now recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen. So gather your loved ones and enjoy this delightful dish that is sure to impress. Remember to save the leftovers for a delicious meal the next day!
/meatballs-on-noodles-91642371-5874f1dc5f9b584db39cfd7d.jpg)
