The Northern China is known for its specific climate, often characterized by harsh winters and dry summers. The conditions suit the growth of plants such as wheat, garlic and green onion hence making them the common base for every Northern dish. Still, we should keep in mind that Beijing was once the home of the imperial family, which was served by lots of talented chefs that managed to incorporate the best of regional cuisines into their recipes. Here are our top 6 Beijing recipes that will definitely find their place in your cookbook. They are so delicious that even your Western match will have nothing against eating them on a regular basis!
Tastes of Northern China – Peking Duck
This is the specialty in many Beijing restaurants, where skilled chefs prepare this mouth-watering dish using a traditional recipe that often includes serving the meat directly on the table with the addition of Mandarin pancakes and green onion. On the other hand, slicing a duck into small portions that have same amounts of skin and fat is art itself and requires some practice. The basic recipe for this meal includes different proportions of duck, water, honey, sherry, ginger, white vinegar, cornstarch, and scallions.
Tastes of Northern China – Mu Shu Pork
Yet another succulent dish that also enjoys high popularity in Chinese restaurants. The pork tenderloin is spiced with dark soy sauce, Shao-Hsing rice wine, sesame oil and cornstarch and is also complemented by cloud fungus and scrambled eggs, which are served with Mandarin pancakes.
Tastes of Northern China – Mongolian Lamb
The base of this recipe is a boneless leg of lamb, which is spiced with dark soy sauce, sesame oil, chopped garlic, scallions and white vinegar which really emphasize the taste of the lamb. Still, if you don’t enjoy the taste of the lamb, you can go ahead and use the beef as a substitute.
Tastes of Northern China – Jiaozi Dumplings
This recipe is usually prepared during the New Year celebration in various parts of Northern China. Dumplings can be both boiled or fried in a pan, in accordance with your personal taste but we assure you they are equally delicious. You can fill them with ground pork or beef, which is often prepared with spices such as green onions, garlic, shredded bamboo, cabbage, soy sauce and rice vinegar.
Tastes of Northern China – Scallion Pancakes
Now, this is a really popular snack that also proves that sometimes less is really more. Namely, the pancakes are filled only with green onions and sesame oil before being fried in a pan. Great news is that this dish is also suitable for vegans!
Tastes of Northern China – Flower Rolls
Another variation of scallion pancakes, but prepared on steam, which causes the dough to spread out into the shape of flower during the cooking and hence the name of the dish. The filling is made of scallions or green onions that are nicely chopped and sesame oil. Yummy!
What do you think about our selection? Don’t hesitate to share some of your personal favourites in the comment section below!