Starting your day off right with a delicious and authentic Chinese breakfast has never been easier. With a vast array of flavors and ingredients to choose from, you can create a morning meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Whether you’re a fan of traditional dishes or looking for something new and exciting, this article will guide you through 20 mouth-watering Chinese breakfast recipes to get your day started on the right foot.
From savory options like scallion pancakes with dipping sauce and steamed pork buns, to sweet treats like red bean soup with glutinous rice balls and sesame balls, we’ve got you covered. With a mix of classic dishes and modern twists, these recipes are sure to inspire even the most adventurous eaters. So go ahead, get creative, and start your day off right with a delicious Chinese breakfast!
Scallion Pancakes with Dipping Sauce
A classic Chinese snack, scallion pancakes are crispy on the outside and savory on the inside, paired perfectly with a tangy dipping sauce. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping sauce ingredients: 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired pancake size.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
6. Brush the surface with a little oil and sprinkle chopped scallions.
7. Fry the pancakes in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes per side or until crispy.
8. Drain excess oil and serve with dipping sauce made by whisking together soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and grated ginger.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao)
These soft and fluffy buns are filled with sweet and savory char siu pork, making them a classic Cantonese dim sum favorite. With this recipe, you can easily make these delicious buns at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Char siu pork filling (see below for recipe)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Char Siu Pork Filling:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a mixing bowl.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead for 10 minutes, then rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and roll out each portion into a ball.
5. Flatten each ball into a disk shape and place a spoonful of char siu pork filling in the center.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a bun, and steam for 12-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Congee with Century Egg and Pork
Congee, a comforting rice porridge, pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of century egg and pork. This traditional Chinese dish is a staple for many, providing warmth and nourishment on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup dried longan fruit (optional)
– 1 century egg, sliced
– 1/2 pound pork belly or shoulder, sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cooked rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear.
2. In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, water, and dried longan fruit (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the congee has thickened to your liking.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced pork and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Slice the century egg into thin pieces.
5. To serve, place some congee into a bowl, add a few slices of cooked pork and century egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Soy Milk with Fried Dough Sticks (Youtiao)
Warm up with a comforting bowl of soy milk and crispy fried dough sticks, a popular Chinese breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups soy milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Youtiao (fried dough sticks) – store-bought or homemade
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine soy milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Cut Youtiao into desired lengths. Heat about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry Youtiao sticks until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve soy milk warm with fried dough sticks and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Egg and Tomato Stir-Fry over Rice
A simple and flavorful stir-fry recipe that combines the richness of eggs with the sweetness of tomatoes, served over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Push the onion mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Add the diced tomato to the pan and stir-fry with the onion mixture for 2-3 minutes, or until the tomatoes start to soften.
6. Serve the egg and tomato mixture over the cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Fried Dumplings (Guotie)
A classic Chinese dish, Pan-Fried Dumplings are a staple of Northern cuisine. This recipe yields a crispy bottom and a tender, juicy interior that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup ground pork
+ 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
+ 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for pan-frying
– Optional: soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the filling by combining ground pork, chopped cabbage, scallions, and garlic in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
6. When the oil is hot, add the dumplings to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve with soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go)
A classic Cantonese dessert, Turnip Cake is a sweet and savory delight made with shredded turnips, rice flour, and other ingredients. This recipe yields a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
Ingredients:
– 1 large turnip, peeled and grated
– 2 cups rice flour
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated turnip, rice flour, scallions, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix well.
2. Add vegetable oil, beaten egg, and soy sauce (if using). Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape into patties.
5. Heat a non-stick pan or wok over medium heat. Cook the turnip cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf (Lo Mai Gai)
A classic Cantonese dish, Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup dried lotus leaves (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– Optional: cooked chicken, pork, or shrimp for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat a steamer basket with boiling water.
3. In a large bowl, combine the drained rice, vegetable oil, salt, and sugar. Mix well.
4. Place a lotus leaf on a flat surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Spoon about 1/2 cup of rice mixture onto the center of the leaf.
5. Fold the leaf over the rice, forming a square or rectangle shape. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Steam the Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the leaves are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tea Eggs (Cha Ye Dan)
A classic Chinese snack, Tea Eggs are a staple at street stalls and markets throughout the country. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and some patience to infuse the eggs with the perfect blend of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 eggs
– 1 cup strong brewed tea (black or green)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise
Instructions:
1. Hard-boil the eggs and let them cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine brewed tea, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and star anise. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Place the cooled eggs into the liquid mixture and make sure they are fully covered.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
5. Before serving, remove the eggs from the liquid and rinse them with cold water.
6. Pat dry with paper towels and serve.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours
Rice Noodle Rolls (Cheung Fun)
Discover the simplicity of making delicious Rice Noodle Rolls at home with this easy recipe. These traditional Cantonese-style rolls are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of rice noodles ( Cheung Fun wrappers)
– 2 cups of cooked rice
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup of shredded carrots
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the cooked rice into small pieces.
3. Place a rice noodle wrapper on a flat surface.
4. Arrange 1/4 cup of cooked rice, chopped scallions, and shredded carrots in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sesame Balls (Jian Dui)
A traditional Chinese dessert, Sesame Balls are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and sesame seeds.
2. Gradually add in the vegetable oil, sugar, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a small egg.
5. Heat water in a steamer basket to a boil. Place the sesame balls in the steamer and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and slightly firm to the touch.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Egg Custard
Steaming egg custard may seem like a unique cooking method, but the end result is a creamy and silky texture that’s hard to resist. This simple recipe yields a delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer to high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small cups.
5. Place ramekins in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each for even cooking.
6. Steam for 18-20 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
8. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Red Bean Soup with Glutinous Rice Balls
This comforting soup combines the warmth of red bean paste with chewy glutinous rice balls, perfect for a cozy meal or as a soothing remedy during cold weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried azuki beans (red beans)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– Water for mixing and kneading
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the red beans and soak them in water overnight. Drain and cook the beans in 2 cups of fresh water until soft.
2. In a separate pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the sugar and salt; stir until dissolved.
3. Gradually add the glutinous rice flour to the pan, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter).
5. In a large pot, combine the cooked red beans, sugar mixture, and glutinous rice balls. Cook over low heat for 15-20 minutes or until the soup thickens slightly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Enjoy your warm and comforting Red Bean Soup with Glutinous Rice Balls!
Chinese Donut Wrapped in Rice Noodle (Zha Leung)
A traditional Chinese dessert that combines the crunch of a donut with the chewiness of rice noodle, Zha Leung is a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Chinese donut dough (or substitute with regular donut mix)
– 2 cups of water
– 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup of cooked and cooled rice noodle
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the donut dough into thin sheets.
3. Wrap each sheet around a piece of cooked rice noodle, forming a cylinder shape.
4. Fry the wrapped noodles for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil and dust with sugar and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Tofu Pudding (Douhua)
This traditional Chinese dessert is a sweet and creamy treat made with silken tofu, sugar, and water. With its soft and silky texture, it’s a perfect ending to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of silken tofu (14 oz)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: flavorings like vanilla extract or matcha powder
Instructions:
1. Drain the tofu and cut it into small cubes.
2. In a blender, combine the tofu, sugar, water, cornstarch, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the mixture into a saucepan and whisk constantly over medium heat until the pudding thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including blending and heating time)
Enjoy your sweet and creamy Sweet Tofu Pudding!
Pork and Shrimp Shumai
This recipe brings together the savory flavors of pork and shrimp, wrapped in a delicate wonton wrapper for a delightful bite. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup cooked and chilled shrimp
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, scallions, shrimp, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork-shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
4. Press the edges together to seal the filling inside. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the shumai, making sure they are not crowded. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eight Treasure Porridge (Ba Bao Zhou)
This ancient Chinese recipe is a comforting and nutritious porridge made with eight treasures – dried fruits, nuts, and grains. It’s a perfect treat for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sticky rice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup dates, pitted
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup almonds
– 1/4 cup dried apricots
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 cups water
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the sticky rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again, then combine with 2 cups of fresh water in a medium saucepan.
3. Add brown sugar, dates, raisins, almonds, dried apricots, and sesame seeds to the saucepan.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Green Onion and Sesame Oil Noodles
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the pungency of green onions, the nuttiness of sesame oil, and the comfort of noodles for a delightful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. noodles (rice or soba work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh green onions
– 2 tbsp. sesame oil
– 1 tsp. soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add chopped green onions and cook until fragrant and slightly caramelized (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add soy sauce and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss cooked noodles with the green onion mixture until well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Fermented Rice Wine Soup (Jiuniang Tangyuan)
A traditional Chinese soup made with fermented rice wine, a staple ingredient in many Asian cuisines. This comforting and flavorful broth is perfect for cold winter days.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken or pork stock
– 1 cup fermented rice wine (jiuniang)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic, onion, and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Pour in the stock, fermented rice wine, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Sponge Cake (Ma Lai Go)
A classic Chinese dessert, Steamed Sponge Cake is a light and fluffy treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer and prepare a heatproof plate or basket.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Add egg whites one at a time, beating until smooth after each addition.
4. Add milk and mix until the batter is free of lumps.
5. Brush the prepared plate or basket with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
6. Pour the batter onto the prepared plate or basket.
7. Steam for 15-20 minutes, depending on your steamer’s power.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tips:
– Use room temperature ingredients for best results.
– Don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake.
– Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit or whipped cream.
Summary
Start your day with a delicious and flavorful Chinese breakfast! This article features 20 mouth-watering recipes to kickstart your morning. From classic dishes like Scallion Pancakes with Dipping Sauce and Steamed Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao), to unique options like Congee with Century Egg and Pork and Sesame Balls (Jian Dui), there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make popular breakfast items, such as Pan-Fried Dumplings (Guotie) and Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go), or try new recipes like Tea Eggs (Cha Ye Dan) and Red Bean Soup with Glutinous Rice Balls. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet treats or savory meals, this collection of Chinese breakfast recipes has got you covered!
