How to Create a Traditional Chinese Mezze Platter at Home

Creating a traditional Chinese mezze platter at home can be an enjoyable culinary adventure. This colorful and diverse selection of small dishes allows you to experience various flavors and textures inherent in Chinese cuisine. Follow these steps to successfully curate your platter.

Select Your Base Items

Start with the foundation of your mezze platter by including a variety of base items. Common choices are:

Steamed Dumplings: Choose pork, chicken, or vegetable dumplings, which are commonly served with soy sauce or vinegar.
Spring Rolls: These crispy delights can be filled with a mix of vegetables, chicken, or shrimp.
Peking Duck Pancakes: Thin pancakes that are traditionally served with slices of duck, hoisin sauce, and cucumber.

Add Variety with Dips and Sauces

Dips and sauces are crucial in bringing flavor to your mezze platter. Consider including:

Hoisin Sauce: A sweet and savory sauce perfect for dipping dumplings.
Chili Oil: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a drizzle of chili oil adds a spicy kick.
Ginger Soy Sauce: A blend of soy sauce, minced ginger, and scallions provides a tangy accompaniment.

Incorporate Pickled Vegetables

To balance the richness of the dumplings and spring rolls, add some pickled vegetables. Common choices include:

Pickled Radishes: These add crunch and tanginess.
Pickled Cucumbers: Refreshing and slightly sweet, they enhance the flavor profile.
Pickled Carrots: Their bright color and crisp texture contribute both flavor and visual appeal.

Add Protein Options

For a heartier platter, consider adding some protein sources:

Char Siu Pork: This sweet barbecued pork is deliciously tender and adds color to your platter.
Kung Pao Chicken: A slightly spicy dish with peanuts that can be served in small portions on the platter.
Tofu Skewers: Seasoned and grilled, these add a vegetarian option to your platter.

Include Fresh Herbs and Edible Flowers

Brighten up your mezze platter by adding fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint. They not only add flavor but also enhance the visual appeal. Edible flowers can be used for decoration, bringing a touch of elegance and color.

Plate Your Mezze Platter

Arrange your prepared items on a large platter. Use small bowls for sauces and dips, placing them strategically around the platter. Position the dumplings and spring rolls in an aesthetically pleasing manner, combining different colors and shapes to create visual interest. Fresh herbs can be placed throughout for a pop of green.

Serve with Tea

Completing your traditional Chinese mezze platter with a pot of hot tea can enhance the experience. Options like jasmine or oolong tea pair beautifully with the flavors of the food.

Creating a traditional Chinese mezze platter at home allows you to explore and share the delightful nuances of Chinese cuisine. Enjoy the process of preparing each item and the joy of sharing this vibrant platter with friends and family.