KOMPAS.com – Celebrating Chinese New Year with Chinese food typical of your favorite restaurant will certainly provide a special atmosphere.
Cooking techniques and using the right ingredients are the main keys to creating delicious dishes that pamper the taste buds.
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Chinese food is synonymous with rich flavors and fast cooking methods using quality tools and ingredients.
The following are 15 ways to cook Chinese food in the style of your favorite restaurant which is suitable for celebrating Chinese New Year with your family.
1. Use a wok to distribute the heat evenly
A wok is a concave pan that is used to distribute heat evenly throughout food ingredients. This technique helps food cook perfectly even when using high heat.
2. Cook over high heat
Cook Chinese food over high heat to keep the aroma and texture of the food fresh. This technique also speeds up the cooking process so that the spices are better absorbed.
3. Use Sesame Oil for a Distinctive Aroma
Sesame oil provides a distinctive aroma and enriches the taste of Chinese food. Just use a little oil to stir-fry ingredients such as vegetables and meat.
4. Prepare dry spices
Dried spices such as mushrooms, dried shrimp and special spices are often used in Chinese food. This spice provides a strong umami taste without the need for additional MSG.
5. Quick Stir-Frying Technique
Saute food ingredients for a short time to maintain nutrition and texture. Use a special wok spatula to make the cooking process easier.
6. Choose Fresh Vegetables
Fresh vegetables such as bok choy, mustard greens and broccoli are often used in Chinese food. Cut vegetables into uniform sizes so they cook at the same time.
7. Combination of Fresh and Dry Spices
A mixture of fresh spices such as garlic and ginger with dried spices creates a unique, balanced taste. Make sure the spices are sauteed until fragrant before adding other ingredients.
8. Use Natural Broth
Broth from chicken or fish bones is often used to provide a rich base flavor to soups or stir-fries. Make sure the stock is boiled over low heat so that the flavor is stronger.
9. Steam with a Bamboo Basket
Bamboo baskets are used for steaming dimsum, fish, or vegetables. This technique preserves the original taste of the ingredients and makes the presentation more authentic.
10. Fry Twice for Crispy Texture
Some dishes such as fried chicken or dumplings require the frying process twice. This technique produces a crunchy texture on the outside but remains soft on the inside.
11. Adjust the taste to the Yin and Yang philosophy
Create a balance of sweet, salty, spicy and savory flavors according to the Yin and Yang philosophy. Use sugar, salt and spices in balanced quantities.
12. Prepare Long Chopsticks for Cooking
Long chopsticks are often used to cook dishes such as fried noodles or stir-fries. This tool helps stir the ingredients without destroying the texture.
13. Add Chinese Special Sauce
Oyster sauce, soy sauce and Chinese vinegar are often the key to the taste of Chinese food. Add the sauce at the final stage of cooking for best results.
14. Use Marination Techniques
Marinate the meat with a mixture of soy sauce, ginger and garlic before cooking. This technique helps create flavors that penetrate deeply.
15. Serve with Traditional Decorations
Chinese food is often served with garnishes such as sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds. This decoration not only beautifies the appearance but also adds aroma.
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