The Most Popular Chinese Seafood Dishes and How to Make Them

Chinese cuisine is famous for its diversity and rich flavors, particularly when it comes to seafood. With access to vast coastlines and rivers, various regions in China offer unique seafood dishes that have gained popularity worldwide. Here are some of the most beloved Chinese seafood dishes and guidance on how to prepare them at home.

1. Kung Pao Shrimp

Kung Pao shrimp is a classic stir-fry dish that combines fresh shrimp with peanuts, vegetables, and a spicy sauce. This dish is known for its balanced flavors and satisfying textures.

Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, 1/2 cup peanuts, bell peppers, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and chili paste.

Instructions:

Marinate the shrimp with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a bit of cornstarch for 15 minutes.
In a hot wok, stir-fry ginger and garlic, then add the shrimp until they turn pink.
Add bell peppers and peanuts, and toss in chili paste for spice.
Finish with a drizzle of soy sauce and garnish with green onions.

2. Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions

This dish showcases the delicate flavor of fresh fish. Steaming the fish helps maintain its moisture and tenderness, while ginger and scallions add aromatic qualities.

Ingredients: 1 whole fish (such as snapper or grouper), ginger, scallions, soy sauce, sesame oil, and cilantro.

Instructions:

Clean and gut the fish, then make slashes on each side for even cooking.
Stuff the belly with ginger and scallion slices.
Place the fish on a heatproof plate and steam for about 10-15 minutes.
Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil, then garnish with cilantro before serving.

3. Sweet and Sour Squid

This vibrant dish features tender squid coated in a tangy sweet and sour sauce, making it a favorite among seafood lovers.

Ingredients: 1 lb squid, bell peppers, onion, garlic, ketchup, rice vinegar, sugar, and cornstarch.

Instructions:

Clean and cut the squid into rings.
Stir-fry the squid quickly until just cooked, then remove and set aside.
In the same pan, add onions, garlic, and bell peppers, cooking until softened.
Mix ketchup, vinegar, and sugar in a bowl, then add to the pan and bring to a simmer.
Return the squid to the pan, mixing well to coat in the sauce. Serve hot.

4. Salt and Pepper Crab

This dish highlights the natural sweetness of crab, enhanced by the savory flavors of salt and pepper. It’s a dish best enjoyed with your hands!

Ingredients: 2 crabs, salt, black pepper, garlic, rice flour, and green onions.

Instructions:

Clean the crabs and cut them into pieces.
Coat the crab pieces with rice flour, then deep fry until golden brown.
In a separate pan, heat oil and add minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
Add the fried crab pieces and stir well to coat. Garnish with chopped green onions.

5. Braised Bamboo Clams

Bamboo clams are often used in Chinese cuisine for their unique texture and flavor. This dish consists of braising the clams in a flavorful broth.

Ingredients: 1 lb bamboo clams, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, chicken broth, and green onions.

Instructions:

Clean the bamboo clams thoroughly.
Sauté garlic and ginger in a pan, then add the clams and stir-fry for a few minutes.
Add chicken broth and soy sauce, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
Cover the pan and let it cook for about 10 minutes until the clams are tender. Serve warm.

Exploring these popular Chinese seafood dishes can be both