20 Recipe For Chinese Preserved Lemon They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Mar 24, 2024
Chinese preserved lemon, also known as "lao niang" in Mandarin, is a traditional ingredient that has been used in Chinese cuisine for centuries. It is made by preserving lemons in a mixture of salt and spices, resulting in a tangy and flavorful addition to dishes. This versatile ingredient can be used in soups, stir-fries, marinades, and even desserts. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of making your own Chinese preserved lemon at home. So put on your apron and get ready to add a unique twist to your cooking!
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Dry Sherry, Oyster
This Chinese-inspired recipe is a family favorite that never fails to impress. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and Chinese five-spice powder, and then cooked on a beer can for added flavor and moisture. The result is a succulent and flavorful chicken that will have everyone asking for seconds.
If you love the tangy and sweet flavors of Chinese lemon chicken, then this recipe is for you. The chicken is coated in a crispy cornstarch and flour mixture and then fried until golden brown. It's then tossed in a homemade lemon sauce that is both sweet and sour. Serve it with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Another popular Chinese takeout dish, this orange chicken is made with a sticky and flavorful orange sauce that is made with orange juice, soy sauce, and honey. The chicken is coated in a cornstarch and flour mixture and then fried until crispy before being tossed in the sauce. It's a crowd-pleaser for sure!
If you're looking for a hearty and satisfying meal, look no further than this Chinese beef and broccoli recipe. Tender strips of beef are stir-fried with broccoli and a savory hoisin sauce, creating a delicious and comforting dish that goes perfectly with a cold beer. Serve it over rice for a complete meal.
Fried rice is a staple in Chinese cuisine, and this recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables. Eggs, green onions, and soy sauce add flavor and protein to the dish, while peas, carrots, and corn add color and texture. Feel free to add in your favorite protein such as chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
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Chinese Chicken Thighs
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Olive Oil, Minced Ginger, Minced
If you prefer darker meat, this recipe for Chinese chicken thighs is a must-try. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and garlic, and then grilled to perfection. The result is tender and flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with a cold beer and some grilled vegetables.
For a healthier take on the classic Chinese dish, try this recipe for chicken and broccoli. The chicken is stir-fried with broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots, and then coated in a savory garlic and ginger sauce. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
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Chinese Five-spice Fizz
Main Ingredients: Fresh Ginger, Cognac, Fresh Lemon Juice, Syrup, Soda
This refreshing drink is a perfect accompaniment to any Chinese meal. It combines ginger ale, lime juice, and Chinese five-spice powder for a unique and delicious flavor that will have you coming back for more. Serve it over ice and garnish with lime slices for a fancy touch.
This classic Chinese soup is surprisingly easy to make at home and is the perfect starter for any meal. Chicken broth is flavored with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce and then thickened with cornstarch and eggs. Green onions and tofu add texture and flavor to the soup, making it a tasty and comforting dish.
These sticky and sweet chicken wings are a favorite at Chinese buffets, and now you can make them at home! The wings are marinated in a mixture of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and honey, and then baked until crispy. Serve them with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a perfect party appetizer.
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Chinese Buffet Style Lemon Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Corn Starch, Large Eggs, Water, Low
If you love the lemon chicken at Chinese buffets, then you'll love this recipe for a homemade version. The chicken is coated in a cornstarch and flour mixture and then fried until golden brown. It's then tossed in a tangy and sweet lemon sauce for a delicious and satisfying dish.
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Classic Pork Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout favorite
Main Ingredients: Hot Water, Honey, Sesame Oil, Shaoxing Wine, Soy Sauce
This classic Chinese dish is a must-try for any fried rice lover. Tender pork is stir-fried with rice, vegetables, and eggs, and then flavored with soy sauce and sesame oil. It's a simple and flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
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Garlic Chicken, Chinese Style, How to make Garlic...
Main Ingredients: Chicken Pieces, Ginger Garlic Paste, Salt, Lemon, All
This garlic chicken recipe is a staple in Chinese cuisine and is sure to become a favorite in your household as well. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic, and then stir-fried with vegetables for a simple and flavorful dish that goes perfectly with a cold beer.
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Egg Fried Rice - An Easy Chinese
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Large Eggs, Paprika, Turmeric, Oil, Medium
This recipe for egg fried rice is a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables. The dish is made with rice, eggs, and frozen peas, and is flavored with soy sauce and sesame oil. Feel free to add in any extra vegetables or protein you have on hand for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Orange Chicken
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, All Purpose Flour
This orange chicken recipe is similar to the Chinese takeout version, but it's made with a few healthier swaps. The chicken is coated in a cornstarch and flour mixture and then baked until crispy. It's then tossed in a tangy and sweet orange sauce that is made with orange juice, honey, and soy sauce. Serve it with steamed rice for a complete meal.
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Gluten Free Lemon Chicken Chinese-Style
Main Ingredients: Lemon Juice, Gluten Free Tamari, Light Brown Sugar
If you're following a gluten-free diet, you don't have to miss out on all the delicious Chinese flavors. This recipe for gluten-free lemon chicken is made with gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a crispy crust, and the lemon sauce is made with cornstarch instead of flour. Serve it with your favorite gluten-free side dish for a tasty and safe meal.
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One Pan Chinese Orange Chicken
Main Ingredients: Orange Juice, Chicken Broth, Low Sodium Soy Sauce
This recipe for one-pan Chinese orange chicken is perfect for busy weeknights when you don't want to spend a lot of time cooking and cleaning up. The chicken is coated in a cornstarch and flour mixture and then baked with bell peppers and broccoli for a complete meal on one pan. The tangy and sweet orange sauce brings it all together for a delicious and easy dinner.
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Pork Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Low Sodium Soy Sauce, Sriracha Sauce, Lemons, Minced
No Chinese meal is complete without some delicious dumplings, and this recipe is a must-try. The dough is made from a combination of flour and water, and the filling is a tasty mixture of ground pork, green onions, and soy sauce. Serve them steamed or pan-fried for a delicious and satisfying appetizer.
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Chinese Hoisin Pork Ribs
Main Ingredients: Chicken Broth, Baby Back Ribs, Salt, Black Pepper
If you're a fan of sticky and flavorful ribs, then you have to try this recipe for Chinese hoisin pork ribs. The ribs are marinated in a mixture of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and honey, and then grilled until tender. The result is fall-off-the-bone ribs with a delicious and sticky glaze that will have you licking your fingers.
Lastly, we have a recipe for classic Chinese pepper steak that is sure to become a family favorite. Tender strips of beef are stir-fried with bell peppers and onions, and then coated in a savory soy sauce and oyster sauce mixture. Serve it over rice for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
The Benefits of Chinese Preserved Lemon
Chinese preserved lemon not only adds a burst of flavor to dishes, but it also has several health benefits. Lemons are known for their high vitamin C content, which helps boost the immune system and improve skin health. Preserving them in salt helps to retain their nutrients and enzymes, making them a great source of antioxidants. The combination of salt and lemon also aids in digestion and can alleviate bloating and indigestion.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Chinese Preserved Lemon
Now that you know the benefits of Chinese preserved lemon, let's dive into the recipe. Here's what you'll need:
5-6 lemons
1/4 cup sea salt
1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns
1 cinnamon stick
1 star anise
1 tablespoon sugar
1 quart-sized jar with a lid
Step 1: Wash and dry the lemons thoroughly. Cut off the ends of the lemons and slice them into quarters, leaving the bottom intact.
Step 2: In a bowl, mix together the sea salt, Sichuan peppercorns, cinnamon stick, star anise, and sugar.
Step 3: Pack the lemon quarters tightly into the jar, sprinkling the salt mixture in between the layers.
Step 4: Once all the lemons are in the jar, pour any remaining salt mixture on top.
Step 5: Use a spoon to press down on the lemons, releasing their juices and creating a brine.
Step 6: Seal the jar tightly and leave it at room temperature for 3-4 days, shaking it gently every day to distribute the salt and spices.
Step 7: After 3-4 days, transfer the jar to the refrigerator and let it sit for at least 2 weeks before using. The longer it sits, the more intense the flavor will be.
Ways to Use Chinese Preserved Lemon
There are countless ways to use Chinese preserved lemon in your cooking. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:
Add it to soups to give them a tangy and salty kick.
Stir-fry it with vegetables for a unique twist on a classic dish.
Marinate chicken or fish with it for a burst of flavor.
Chop it up and add it to salads for a refreshing and zesty element.
Use it in desserts, such as lemon bars or sorbet, for a sweet and tangy twist.
With this recipe and the endless possibilities of using Chinese preserved lemon, you can elevate your cooking and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. So why not give it a try and add this traditional ingredient to your pantry? Your taste buds will thank you.