Arheon – Delicious Chinese Side Dishes to Complement Any Meal
When it comes to Chinese cuisine, the main course often steals the spotlight. However, Chinese side dishes play a crucial role in completing the dining experience. From vegetables to savory snacks, these side dishes add flavor, texture, and variety to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying a family dinner or hosting friends, these dishes are perfect for elevating your spread.
1. Stir-Fried Bok Choy
Bok choy is a popular vegetable in Chinese cuisine, and when stir-fried, it becomes a vibrant and flavorful side dish. This simple dish is typically cooked with garlic, ginger, and a touch of soy sauce. The slightly crunchy texture and subtle sweetness of the bok choy balance out heavier main dishes.
2. Chinese Scallion Pancakes
Scallion pancakes, also known as cong you bing, are a crispy, savory snack often served as a side. The dough is layered with green onions and pan-fried until golden and crispy. The flaky, crunchy texture pairs perfectly with any stir-fry or noodle dish.
3. Egg Drop Soup
This light and comforting soup is a staple in Chinese cuisine. Made with a simple broth, egg drop soup features silky strands of egg that are delicately swirled into the hot liquid. A sprinkle of green onions and a dash of sesame oil gives it extra flavor. It’s a perfect side dish to accompany your main course.
4. Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad
Cucumbers are often used in Chinese side dishes, especially in refreshing salads. This sweet and sour cucumber salad combines the crispness of cucumbers with a tangy dressing made from rice vinegar, sugar, and chili oil. It provides a cool contrast to spicy or rich main dishes.
5. Chinese Pickled Vegetables
Pickled vegetables are a classic Chinese side dish that adds a zesty and tangy contrast to rich and savory main courses. These vegetables are typically quick-pickled with a mix of vinegar, sugar, and spices. The tanginess and crunchiness make them a great complement to almost any Chinese meal.
6. Mapo Tofu (Mild Version)
While mapo tofu is often seen as a spicy main dish, a milder version can be served as a side dish. This dish features soft tofu cooked in a savory sauce with minced pork or beef. The rich flavors and smooth texture of the tofu offer a nice contrast to meat-heavy dishes.
7. Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce
Chinese eggplant is often cooked with garlic sauce, making it a flavorful and aromatic side dish. The eggplant becomes tender, absorbing the savory, garlicky sauce. It pairs wonderfully with stir-fries or rice-based dishes.
8. Fried Rice
Fried rice is an iconic side dish in Chinese cuisine. Made from leftover rice, it’s stir-fried with a variety of ingredients like vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce. It can be enjoyed with almost any Chinese main dish and is a great way to add more texture and flavor to your meal.
Conclusion
Chinese side dishes offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures that enhance the main courses. Whether you prefer something light like stir-fried bok choy or crave a more savory treat like scallion pancakes, there is always a side dish to suit every meal. These Chinese side dishes are easy to prepare and make your dining experience even more satisfying. Try adding a few to your next Chinese feast!