Essential Tools and Staples for Mastering Chinese Cookery as a Beginner

Lisa Figueroa
18 hours ago
5 min read

Know the origin of your food 食饐而餲，鱼馁而肉败，不食

Confucius

I've just come back from Scotland having visited my sister. Last night we went to the most delightful little Chinese Restaurant, unpretentious, authentic and utterly delicious! It reminded me that I've not actually made much Chinese food recently, something I used to Love, I'm not sure why, I think it's just the fact I've tried lots of different cuisines however, it's time to jump back in!

Many people think Chinese cookery is complex and time consuming, nothing could be further from the truth! Here's a quick guide on how to get started as a beginner!

Chinese cuisine offers a rich blend of flavours and textures, making it both exciting and rewarding to explore in your kitchen. For beginners, the journey may appear overwhelming, but having the right tools and well-chosen pantry staples can set you on a path to success. Let’s discover the essential equipment and ingredients you need to create delicious Chinese dishes at home.

The Essential Tools for Chinese Cookery

To get the best results in your Chinese cooking, the right utensils are crucial. Here are the key tools you should have:

Wok

The wok is a cornerstone of Chinese cooking. Its rounded bottom allows for even heat distribution, making it ideal for techniques like stir-frying, steaming, and deep-frying. Consider a carbon steel wok that heats rapidly and forms a natural non-stick surface over time. This tool can help you create crispy stir-fries and perfectly cooked vegetables, a staple you'll come to rely on.

Cleaver

A Chinese cleaver is not just for cutting; it’s a multifunctional kitchen essential. You can chop, slice, and even crush garlic with its broad blade. This tool simplifies transferring ingredients from your cutting board to the wok, allowing for smoother preparation. Choose a durable cleaver that feels comfortable in your hand, and you will use it for many dishes.

Bamboo Steamer

Nothing compares to a bamboo steamer for preparing delicate dim sum, dumplings, and vegetables. It allows food to steam gently while retaining its nutrients and flavors. For instance, you can steam bao buns, which stay light and fluffy when cooked this way, or dumplings, which gain a lovely texture without boiling.

Ladle and Spatula

Having a long-handled ladle is vital for serving soups and sauces. Look for a spatula that can withstand high heat, as you will be tossing ingredients in the wok frequently. Wooden or silicone spatulas are excellent choices that prevent scratches on your cookware.

Rice Cooker

Although a rice cooker isn’t mandatory, it can be incredibly useful and I LOVE mine! These devices simplify cooking rice, an essential component of many Chinese meals. With some rice cookers, you can achieve perfect texture every time, which helps reduce the stress of meal preparation.

Measuring Cups and Spoons

Precision is important in cooking. Having a reliable set of measuring cups and spoons ensures you replicate recipes accurately. For instance, using the correct amount of soy sauce, commonly around 3 tablespoons for a stir-fry, can make a significant difference in taste.

Stock Cupboard Staples

Now that you have the essential tools, let's focus on stocking your pantry with key ingredients. Here are the staples you should have on hand:

Soy Sauce

Soy sauce is key to Chinese cooking, providing depth and a savoury element to many dishes. It's beneficial to keep both light and dark soy sauce in your pantry. Light soy sauce is often used for marinades, while dark soy sauce lends colour and richness to dishes. Both varieties have a presence in over 40% of traditional recipes.

Rice Vinegar

Milder and sweeter than regular vinegar, rice vinegar is ideal for dressings and marinades. It's commonly used in dipping sauces, so make sure to have it in your pantry for authentic flavour profiles.

Sesame Oil

A small amount of sesame oil can enhance the taste of your dishes. Use it in stir-fries or drizzle it over finished meals for added flavour. Just one teaspoon can elevate a simple noodle dish remarkably.

Hoisin Sauce

Hoisin sauce adds a sweet and savoury flavour to your meals. Use it as a marinade, in stir-fries, or as a dipping sauce. It’s particularly great with Peking duck and can increase the depth of your flavours substantially.

Five-Spice Powder

This essential spice blend typically combines star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and fennel seeds. Just a pinch can enhance soups and stews, making it perfect for seasoned meats.

Dried Mushrooms

Dried shiitake mushrooms can boost the flavour of your dishes, adding an earthy depth. After soaking them in warm water, add them to stir-fries or miso soup. Did you know that they contain protein and essential nutrients, making them not only tasty but also healthy?

Noodles

Having a variety of noodles on hand, such as rice noodles, egg noodles, and wheat noodles, opens the door to numerous dishes. They can be used in soups, stir-fries, or even cold salads.

Tofu

Tofu is a fantastic protein source versatile enough for many meals. Firm tofu works well in stir-fries, while silken tofu is suitable for soups. It absorbs flavors beautifully, making it a fantastic way to add protein to any dish.

Fresh Herbs

Although not pantry staples, fresh herbs like cilantro, green onions, and Thai basil are crucial for garnish and flavour. Keeping these on hand can elevate your dishes and add freshness that balances out rich ingredients.

Putting It All Together

With your essential tools and ingredients ready, you’re set to start your cooking adventure! Begin with simple recipes that allow you to practice your techniques and familiarize yourself with the flavours of Chinese cuisine.

Start with Stir-Fries

Stir-fries are a fantastic way to dive in. They require only a few ingredients and can be customized to your preferences. For example, use chicken or tofu as your protein, add colourful vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli, and stir-fry everything with soy sauce and sesame oil. This method keeps the cooking time short and flavours vibrant.

Experiment with Dumplings

Once you're comfortable, try making dumplings. Use your bamboo steamer to cook them perfectly. For dipping sauces, mix soy sauce and rice vinegar, then add a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat. Making dumplings can be a fun activity and is a great way to showcase your skills.

Explore Regional Dishes

Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse, with each region contributing unique flavours and techniques. Try researching recipes from Sichuan, known for its bold flavours, or Cantonese, which is often lighter and focuses on freshness. Don’t hesitate to experiment with new ingredients; you may discover your new favourite dish.

Your Culinary Journey Awaits

Becoming skilled in Chinese cooking as a beginner requires the right tools and ingredients. By starting with a well-stocked pantry and essential kitchen tools, you can create mouth-watering and authentic Chinese dishes. So, gather your supplies, dive into the recipes, and enjoy the colorful world of Chinese cuisine!