16 Traditional Chinese Wedding Cake Recipe They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Mar 22, 2024
Traditional Chinese weddings are steeped in rich history and tradition, with every aspect of the ceremony and celebration carefully planned and carried out. One of the most important elements of a Chinese wedding is the wedding cake, which holds deep symbolic meaning and is a symbol of good fortune and happiness for the newlyweds. In this article, we will share with you a traditional Chinese wedding cake recipe that has been passed down for generations, allowing you to add a touch of Chinese culture and tradition to your special day.
If you love Chinese takeout, then you'll definitely want to try this delicious beer can chicken recipe. The tangy sweetness of the orange glaze pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken and crispy skin. Plus, it's so easy to make at home!
To start, you'll need a whole chicken and a can of your favorite beer. Rub the chicken with a blend of Chinese five-spice powder, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Then, place the chicken on top of the beer can and roast it in the oven for about an hour. The result? A mouthwatering chicken that will have you coming back for seconds.
This classic Chinese dish is a favorite for many, and for good reason. Tender strips of beef are stir-fried with broccoli and a savory sauce that is sure to satisfy your cravings. While this recipe traditionally calls for stir-frying in a wok, you can easily achieve the same results by using a regular frying pan.
For this recipe, you'll need to marinate the beef strips in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper for at least 30 minutes. Then, stir-fry the beef and broccoli together in a hot pan, and finish with a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Serve over steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
A Chinese takeout favorite, fried rice is a simple and versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. This recipe uses eggs, peas, carrots, and green onions for a classic version of this dish. You can also add in any other vegetables or protein you have on hand for a more personalized meal.
To make this recipe, you'll need day-old rice, as the drier texture works best for frying. Cook the eggs and vegetables in a hot wok, then add in the rice and seasonings. Fry everything together until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy. Serve as a side dish or add in some chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
4of 20
Chinese Chicken Thighs
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Olive Oil, Minced Ginger, Minced
If you're looking for a flavorful and budget-friendly meal, these Chinese-style chicken thighs are a must-try. The marinade for this recipe is made with soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger, giving the chicken a sweet and savory flavor. The key to getting crispy skin is to pat the chicken dry before roasting.
Once the chicken is marinated, place it on a baking sheet and roast it in the oven for about 30 minutes. You can also grill the chicken for a smokier flavor. Serve with steamed vegetables and rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
This classic Chinese dish is a staple in many households, and it's easy to see why. Tender chicken and crisp broccoli are coated in a savory sauce made with oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. This recipe also calls for hoisin sauce, which adds a touch of sweetness to the dish.
To make this recipe, you'll need to marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and water. Then, stir-fry the chicken and broccoli together in a hot pan, adding in the sauce and cornstarch slurry to thicken it. Serve over steamed rice for a delicious and nutritious meal.
If you're a fan of Chinese soups, then you'll love this homemade version of the classic egg drop soup. This recipe is made with chicken broth, cornstarch, and eggs, and can be customized with your favorite add-ins, such as mushrooms or green onions.
To make this soup, start by bringing the broth to a simmer in a pot. Then, slowly pour in the beaten eggs while stirring the broth, which will create the characteristic "ribbons" of egg in the soup. Finally, add in your desired add-ins and seasonings for a warm and comforting bowl of soup.
7of 20
Classic Pork Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout favorite
Main Ingredients: Hot Water, Honey, Sesame Oil, Shaoxing Wine, Soy Sauce
This classic pork fried rice recipe is a staple in many Chinese takeout orders, and now you can make it at home! This recipe uses pork loin, eggs, peas, and carrots for a satisfying and delicious meal. You can also add in any other vegetables or protein you have on hand.
To make this recipe, start by stir-frying the pork in a hot wok, then add in the vegetables and eggs. Once everything is cooked, add in the day-old rice and seasonings, and fry until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy. Serve as a side dish or add in some shrimp or chicken for a complete meal.
8of 20
Egg Fried Rice - An Easy Chinese
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Large Eggs, Paprika, Turmeric, Oil, Medium
This egg fried rice recipe is a great alternative to the classic version, as it's a bit lighter and healthier. This recipe is made with eggs, scallions, peas, and carrots, and can be customized with your favorite add-ins, such as shrimp or chicken.
To make this recipe, start by stirring the eggs until they are scrambled and set aside. Then, stir-fry the vegetables in a hot wok and add in the cooked rice. Finally, mix in the scrambled eggs and seasonings, and cook until the rice is heated through. Serve as a side dish or add in some protein for a complete meal.
9of 20
Fried Chicken Wings, Chinese Takeout Style
Main Ingredients: Chicken Wings, Black Pepper, White Pepper, Garlic
These Chinese-style fried chicken wings are a must-try for any wing lover. The wings are marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and garlic before being fried to crispy perfection. You can also add in some chili flakes for a spicy kick.
To make this recipe, start by marinating the wings for at least 30 minutes. Then, fry them in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious appetizer or main dish.
10of 20
Chinese Broccoli Beef
Main Ingredients: Sirloin Steak, Soy Sauce, Cornstarch, Freshly Ground
This Chinese broccoli beef recipe is a healthier and homemade version of the popular takeout dish. This recipe is made with tender strips of beef and broccoli in a savory sauce made with oyster sauce, soy sauce, and garlic. You can also add in other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers.
To make this recipe, start by marinating the beef in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and water. Then, stir-fry the beef and broccoli together in a hot pan, adding in the sauce and cornstarch slurry to thicken it. Serve over steamed rice for a satisfying and delicious meal.
These homemade Chinese egg rolls are a delicious and healthier alternative to the deep-fried version. This recipe is made with a filling of pork, shrimp, cabbage, and carrots, wrapped in egg roll wrappers and baked in the oven. The result is a crispy and flavorful appetizer that will impress your friends and family.
To make these egg rolls, start by cooking the filling in a hot pan, then wrap them in the egg roll wrappers and brush with oil. Bake in the oven until they are golden brown and crispy. Serve with a sweet and sour sauce for dipping.
12of 20
Classic Beef Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout
Main Ingredients: Flank Steak, Salt, Water, Baking Soda, Dark Soy Sauce
This classic beef fried rice recipe is a staple in many Chinese takeout orders, and now you can make it at home! This recipe uses beef, eggs, peas, and carrots for a satisfying and delicious meal. You can also add in any other vegetables or protein you have on hand.
To make this recipe, start by stir-frying the beef in a hot wok, then add in the vegetables and eggs. Once everything is cooked, add in the day-old rice and seasonings, and fry until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy. Serve as a side dish or add in some shrimp or chicken for a complete meal.
This Chinese BBQ pork, also known as char siu, is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine. The pork is marinated in a blend of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and honey, giving it a sweet and savory flavor. You can serve this pork over rice, in noodle dishes, or even in sandwiches.
To make this recipe, marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes, then roast it in the oven until it is cooked through and slightly charred. You can also grill the pork for a smokier flavor. Serve with your favorite side dishes for a delicious and satisfying meal.
This Chinese chicken stir fry is a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love. This recipe uses chicken breast, vegetables, and a savory sauce made with oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. You can use any vegetables you have on hand, such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers.
To make this recipe, start by stir-frying the chicken until it is cooked through, then add in the vegetables and sauce. Finish by adding in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Serve over steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
This Chinese sweet and sour chicken recipe is a healthier and homemade version of the popular takeout dish. This recipe is made with chicken breast and pineapple in a tangy and sweet sauce made with rice vinegar, ketchup, and brown sugar. You can also add in other vegetables, such as bell peppers or onions.
To make this recipe, start by stir-frying the chicken until it is cooked through, then add in the vegetables and sauce. Finish by adding in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Serve over steamed rice for a satisfying and delicious meal.
If you're a fan of honey prawns from your local Chinese restaurant, then you'll love this homemade version. This recipe is made with shrimp coated in a sweet and sticky honey sauce. It's easy to make and pairs perfectly with steamed rice and vegetables.
To make this recipe, start by coating the shrimp in a cornstarch batter and frying them until they are crispy. Then, make the honey sauce by combining honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic in a pan. Toss the shrimp in the sauce until they are coated, and serve hot.
17of 20
Chinese Eggplant with Spicy Garlic Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cooking Oil, Eggplant, Garlic, Red Chile Pepper, Fresh
This Chinese eggplant with spicy garlic sauce is a delicious and flavorful vegetarian dish. The eggplant is stir-fried until it is soft and tender, then coated in a spicy sauce made with garlic, soy sauce, and chili paste. You can also add in some tofu or shrimp for added protein.
To make this recipe, start by stir-frying the eggplant until it is soft and slightly charred. Then, make the spicy garlic sauce in a pan and toss the eggplant in the sauce until it is coated. Serve over steamed rice for a delicious and healthy meal.
18of 20
Chinese Rice Cake—Bai Tang Gao
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Water, Yeast, Warm Water, Sugar, Oil
This Chinese rice cake, also known as Bai Tang Gao, is a popular dessert in Chinese cuisine. It is made with rice flour, sugar, and water, and has a soft and slightly chewy texture. You can also add in some red bean paste or coconut flakes for extra flavor.
To make this rice cake, start by mixing the rice flour and sugar with boiling water until it forms a smooth batter. Pour the batter into a greased pan and steam until it is cooked through. Let it cool, then cut into slices and serve as a sweet treat.
19of 20
Homemade Chinese Fried Noodles
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Chinese Chives, Medium Carrot, Shredded
If you love Chinese fried noodles, then you'll love this homemade version that is easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe is made with egg noodles, vegetables, and a savory sauce made with oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. You can add in any vegetables or protein you have on hand.
To make this recipe, start by cooking the noodles and stir-frying the vegetables in a hot wok. Then, add in the noodles and sauce, and toss everything together until the noodles are coated and heated through. Serve as a side dish or add in some chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
The Significance of the Wedding Cake in Chinese Culture
The Symbolism of the Wedding Cake
In Chinese culture, the wedding cake holds a special significance and is more than just a sweet treat. It is a symbol of good luck, happiness, and prosperity for the newlyweds. The round shape of the cake represents the union and everlasting love between the couple, while the red color is a symbol of good fortune and joy. The layers of the cake symbolize the layers of harmony and success in the couple's future together.
A Family Affair
The making of the wedding cake is a family affair, with the bride's family taking on the responsibility of creating and decorating the cake. This tradition symbolizes the joining of the two families and the importance of family support and unity in Chinese culture.
The Traditional Chinese Wedding Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red food coloring (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
7. If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring to achieve a vibrant red color for the cake.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cakes cool completely before assembling and decorating.
Decorating the Cake
The traditional Chinese wedding cake is usually decorated with intricate designs and symbols that hold special meaning. The most common decorations include dragons, phoenixes, and double happiness symbols. These can be created using fondant or piped with buttercream frosting.
Incorporating Tradition into Your Special Day
By using this traditional Chinese wedding cake recipe, you can add a unique and meaningful element to your special day. Not only will you and your guests enjoy a delicious cake, but you will also be honoring Chinese culture and tradition. So why not give it a try and make your wedding day even more special and memorable?
