What are the Top 10 Chinese Dishes?

 

A vibrant spread of China’s most beloved dishes — from Peking Duck and Sweet and Sour Pork to Dim Sum and Mapo Tofu — showcasing the rich diversity, color, and flavor of traditional Chinese cuisine.

1. Peking Duck (北京烤鸭)

Origin: Beijing
Description:
Peking Duck is one of China’s most celebrated dishes, known for its thin, crispy skin and succulent meat. The duck is marinated, air-dried, and roasted until golden brown. It’s traditionally served with thin pancakes, scallions, cucumber, and sweet bean sauce. Diners wrap slices of duck and condiments into a roll, combining savory, sweet, and crunchy textures.
Famous for: Royal dish of ancient China, symbol of Beijing cuisine.

2. Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁)

Origin: Sichuan Province
Description:
This iconic stir-fry features diced chicken, roasted peanuts, and dried red chilies cooked in a flavorful sauce made of soy, vinegar, sugar, and Sichuan peppercorns. It’s the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors. Modern variations include shrimp or tofu versions.
Famous for: Its signature “mala” (numbing-spicy) flavor unique to Sichuan cuisine.

3. Sweet and Sour Pork (糖醋里脊)

Origin: Guangdong (Cantonese Cuisine)
Description:
A beloved classic, Sweet and Sour Pork combines crispy fried pork with a glossy sauce made from vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and pineapple juice. The dish delivers a delightful harmony of sweet and tangy flavors with a crunchy texture.
Famous for: Its bright color and addictive sweet-tart taste loved globally.

4. Hot Pot (火锅)

Origin: Chongqing & Sichuan
Description:
Hot Pot is a social dining experience where friends and family cook thinly sliced meats, seafood, tofu, and vegetables in a simmering pot of broth. The spicy Sichuan version includes chili oil and peppercorns, while northern and Cantonese versions are milder. Dipping sauces like sesame paste or garlic oil add customization.
Famous for: A communal dish symbolizing togetherness and celebration.

5. Dim Sum (点心)

Origin: Guangdong Province (Cantonese Cuisine)
Description:
Dim Sum means “touch of the heart” — a collection of bite-sized dishes served in bamboo steamers, often enjoyed with tea during brunch. Popular items include shrimp dumplings (har gow), pork buns (char siu bao), and siu mai.
Famous for: Its variety and the art of yum cha (tea drinking tradition).

6. Chow Mein (炒面)

Origin: Northern China
Description:
Chow Mein means “fried noodles.” Egg noodles are stir-fried with vegetables like bean sprouts, cabbage, and bell peppers, and may include chicken, beef, or shrimp. The sauce is light yet flavorful, combining soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil.
Famous for: Quick, tasty, and versatile street food staple.

7. Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐)

Origin: Sichuan Province
Description:
A fiery and flavorful dish made from soft tofu cubes simmered in a spicy bean-based sauce with minced pork. The key ingredient is doubanjiang (fermented chili bean paste), which gives the dish its deep, savory umami. Sichuan peppercorns add a numbing sensation.
Famous for: Its “mala” flavor and smooth tofu texture.

8. Char Siu (叉烧)

Origin: Guangdong Province (Cantonese Barbecue)
Description:
Char Siu is a type of Cantonese barbecued pork marinated in honey, soy sauce, hoisin, and Chinese five-spice powder. It’s roasted until caramelized and tender, creating a sweet, smoky glaze. Often enjoyed with rice, in buns, or as part of noodle dishes.
Famous for: Its red glaze and signature smoky-sweet aroma.

9. Dumplings (饺子)

Origin: Northern China
Description:
Dumplings (Jiaozi) are one of the oldest and most symbolic Chinese foods. They consist of thin dough wrappers filled with minced meat (usually pork) and vegetables like cabbage or chives. They can be boiled, steamed, or pan-fried. Eating dumplings during Lunar New Year symbolizes wealth and prosperity.
Famous for: Staple festival food representing family reunion.

10. Yangzhou Fried Rice (扬州炒饭)

Origin: Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province
Description:
A refined version of fried rice, Yangzhou Fried Rice includes diced shrimp, roast pork, peas, eggs, and carrots. Each grain of rice is separate and lightly coated with flavor, showing the chef’s skill. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create rich flavor.
Famous for: Being the gold standard of fried rice in Chinese cuisine.