How to Make Delicious Chinese Mezes for a Holiday Meal

Chinese mezes, often referred to as small dishes or appetizers, can add an exciting flair to any holiday meal. These bite-sized delights are perfect for sharing and can be tailored to suit any palate. Here’s how to prepare a variety of delicious Chinese mezes that will impress your guests.

1. Spring Rolls

Spring rolls are a classic Chinese appetizer that are both crispy and savory. To make these, you'll need:

  • 1 package of spring roll wrappers
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • Oil for frying

Start by sautéing the cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts in a pan with a splash of soy sauce until they are tender. Allow the mixture to cool, and then place a spoonful inside a spring roll wrapper. Roll tightly and seal the edges with a bit of water. Fry in hot oil until crispy and golden brown. Serve with sweet chili sauce for dipping.

2. Dumplings

Dumplings are another must-have meze during the holidays. You can fill them with minced pork, chicken, or vegetables. Here’s a simple recipe:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 pound ground pork (or your choice of filling)
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

First, make the dumpling dough by mixing the flour and water until smooth. Roll it into small circles. To make the filling, mix the meat, ginger, green onions, and soy sauce. Place a tablespoon of filling on each dough circle, fold, and seal the edges. You can steam or pan-fry the dumplings until they are cooked through. Serve with a soy sauce and vinegar dip.

3. Char Siu (BBQ Pork)

Char Siu is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, featuring sweet, savory barbecued pork. To create this dish, gather:

  • 2 pounds pork shoulder
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder

Marinate the pork with hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, and five-spice powder for at least four hours, preferably overnight. Roast the pork in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes, basting with the marinate every 15 minutes. Once caramelized, slice thinly for a delightful meze.

4. Scallion Pancakes

These crispy pancakes are a fantastic addition to any Chinese meze platter. Ingredients needed:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 4 scallions, finely chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil for frying

Mix the flour with boiling water to form a dough, and knead until smooth. Let it rest for 30 minutes. Roll into a thin circle, sprinkle with salt and scallions, and roll it into a log. Coil the log and flatten it again into a pancake. Fry in hot oil until crispy and golden. Cut into wedges and serve with soy sauce.

5. Chicken Lettuce Wraps

For a lighter option, chicken lettuce wraps are fresh and flavorful. To prepare:

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 cup water chestnuts, diced
  • 1 head of iceberg lettuce, leaves separated

Sauté the ground chicken in sesame oil until cooked. Mix in soy sauce and diced water chestnuts for crunch. Serve the mixture in lettuce leaves for a fresh, interactive appetizer.

By incorporating these delicious Chinese mezes into your holiday meal, you create a festive atmosphere that is both vibrant and delightful. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and textures to make your