Everybody loves Chinese take-out.  From the delicious dumplings, to the stupendous spring rolls, to the spicy and flavorful meat dishes, Chinese food is a favorite of Americans everywhere.  Despite the popularity of Chinese take-out, few people attempt Chinese cooking in their own homes.  Perhaps they are under the impression that it is too difficult, or maybe they are concerned about the quality of the results.  However, the truth is that Chinese cooking at home is not only simple, it’s healthy too!

Taste For Less

One of the main advantages of cooking Chinese food at home is that you can get the same taste without paying such a high price for your health.  Most meals that can be ordered from a Chinese restaurant contain anywhere from 500 to over 1,000 calories.  Not only that, but these meals are also known for their high sodium content.  Preparing your own Chinese food at home means that you can have control over the amount of sauces and food that you prepare, resulting in healthier meals.

Doesn’t This Look Familiar…

The methods for cooking Chinese food are actually quite similar to methods used in American cooking.  Though there are some cooking methods unique to Chinese cooking, other methods are fairly universal.  The main methods used in Chinese cooking are boiling, roasting, and shallow frying.

Reminiscent Of Restaurant Cuisine

When preparing Chinese food at home, the result usually turns out to be similar to what you would taste in a Chinese restaurant.  You can find Chinese recipes in many cookbooks, or on the Internet.  One popular Chinese dish that can easily be prepared at home is Sweet and Sour Chicken.

To prepare Sweet and Sour Chicken, you will need: 1 clove minced garlic, ¼ teaspoon dry ginger, 1 diced onion, 1 sliced bell pepper, 1-2 shredded carrots, 1 cup Chinese cabbage, 4 tablespoons divided Peanut oil, 1 cup sliced celery, and 1 pound thinly sliced chicken breast.  To prepare the sauce, you will need 1/3 cup rice wine vinegar, salt and pepper to taste, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 cup chicken stock, ¼ teaspoon dry ginger, ½ cup ketchup, and a pinch of garlic powder.

Begin by heating two tablespoons of oil in a skillet or wok over high heat.  Add all the vegetables, and cook until the onion is translucent.  Place aside in a bowl.  Add another two tablespoons of oil to the wok and add the chicken until fully cooked.  Mix the sauce ingredients in a separate bowl, and add the sauce and vegetables to the wok along with the chicken.  Cook for about seven minutes, until the sauce has become thick.  Serve over white rice.

Turning Away From Takeout

Before you know it, you will be cooking Chinese food like a pro and will no longer have any need for that takeout joint down the street.  Not only will your health benefit from this change, but your self-esteem will as well.

Tags: Chinese Cooking, Restaurant Cuisine

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