The Essential Guide to Cooking Chinese Mezes with Meat

Chinese cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and diverse range of dishes. Among the many offerings, mezes, or small plates, featuring meat stand out for their unique combinations of taste and texture. This essential guide will explore some of the most popular Chinese mezes that include meat, along with tips on preparation and serving.

1. Char Siu (Chinese Barbecue Pork)

Char Siu, a staple in Chinese cuisine, is known for its distinctive sweet and savory flavor. This dish typically features pork marinated in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, five-spice powder, and hoisin sauce. The marinated pork is then roasted until it achieves a slightly caramelized crust.

Preparation Tips: For optimal results, allow the pork to marinate overnight. Use an oven or a grill to achieve that perfect char.

2. Jiaozi (Dumplings)

Jiaozi, or Chinese dumplings, are another beloved meze that can be stuffed with various meats, including pork, chicken, and beef. These dumplings can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, making them versatile and appealing.

Serving Suggestion: Serve with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a hint of chili oil. This adds an extra zing to the flavor profile.

3. Spicy Chicken Wings (Lazi Ji)

Lazi Ji is a fiery dish featuring chicken wings coated in a spicy seasoning blend. Typically, the wings are deep-fried until crispy and then tossed in a mixture of dried chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns for a punchy flavor.

Cooking Tip: For the crispiness, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the wings. This will help lock in the moisture and flavor.

4. Sichuan Beef Skewers

Sichuan beef skewers bring the heat with their bold spices. Marinated beef is threaded onto skewers and grilled, creating a smoky, savory flavor. The marinade often includes ingredients like garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and Sichuan pepper.

Suggested Pairing: Serve with a side of sliced cucumber to help balance the spicy flavors.

5. Honey Garlic Shrimp

This sweet and savory dish showcases shrimp marinated in a honey garlic sauce, offering a delightful contrast of flavors. When cooked, the shrimp take on a beautiful glaze that captivates the taste buds.

Serving Idea: Serve these shrimp on a bed of steamed jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

6. Twice-Cooked Pork (Hui Guo Rou)

Twice-cooked pork is a popular dish where the pork is first boiled, sliced, and then stir-fried with spices, vegetables, and sometimes even chili bean paste. This cooking method results in tender, flavorful meat.

Best Accompaniment: Pair with freshly steamed buns or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Conclusion

Cooking Chinese mezes with meat is an excellent way to explore the rich culinary traditions of China. From char siu to spicy chicken wings, each dish brings something unique to the table. By following these preparation tips and serving suggestions, you'll create memorable dishes that delight your palate and impress your guests.