Good morning! Have you ever wondered what are the common Chinese breakfast items? You’re in for a treat because we’re about to take a compelling journey through some of China’s most popular morning meals. From fluffy steamed buns filled with delicious surprises to crispy scallion pancakes dripping with savory flavors, Chinese breakfast offers many options that awaken your taste buds and leave you craving more.
So grab your chopsticks, sit back, and explore the wonders of Chinese breakfast together!
Common Chinese Breakfast – Congee
Congee, also known as rice porridge, is a popular Chinese breakfast dish incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. It is made by slowly simmering rice in a large amount of water or broth until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Congee is a comforting and nourishing breakfast option enjoyed in China for centuries.
Plain Congee
Plain Congee is the simplest and most basic form of this breakfast dish. It consists of rice and water, with no additional ingredients or flavors. The simplicity of plain Congee allows the natural flavors of the rice to shine through, and it is often enjoyed with savory toppings such as scallions, soy sauce, and pickled vegetables.
Savory Congee
Savory Congee takes plain Congee to the next level by adding various ingredients to enhance its flavor and nutritional value. Standard savory options include shredded chicken, diced pork, seafood, or even century eggs. These ingredients add depth and richness to the Congee, creating a hearty and satisfying breakfast.
Sweet Congee
While Congee is commonly enjoyed as a savory dish, it can also be prepared with a touch of sweetness. Sweet Congee adds sugar or sweeteners such as rock sugar or honey to the rice and water mixture. Popular sweet toppings include red bean paste, lotus seeds, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. Sweet Congee is a comforting and indulgent treat for those with a sweet tooth.
Youtiao
Youtiao, also known as Chinese fried dough or “Chinese cruller,” is a staple Chinese breakfast item commonly enjoyed with Congee or soy milk. These long, golden-brown strips of dough have a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior, making them the perfect accompaniment to a warm bowl of Congee or a cup of soy milk.
Deep-fried Youtiao
Deep-fried youtiao is this Chinese breakfast delicacy’s classic and most commonly found variation. It is made by mixing wheat flour, water, salt, and yeast to form a dough, which is then shaped into long strips and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Deep-fried youtiao is best enjoyed fresh from the fryer when it is still warm and crispy.
Stuffed Youtiao
Stuffed youtiao takes the classic breakfast item to another level by filling the dough before frying. Popular fillings include seasoned pork, shrimp, or a combination of vegetables. The filling adds a layer of flavor and texture to the youtiao, making it a more substantial and satisfying breakfast option.
Baozi
Baozi, also known as steamed buns, are another common Chinese breakfast item that can be found in various shapes and flavors across China. These soft, fluffy buns are made from a yeasted dough filled with various savory or sweet fillings, creating a portable and filling breakfast option.
Steamed Baozi
Steamed baozi is the most common type of buns found in Chinese breakfast shops. They are made by wrapping the dough around a flavorful filling, such as minced pork, vegetables, or even a combination of the two. The buns are then steamed until they become puffy and soft, creating a delightful combination of textures.
Pan-fried Baozi
Pan-fried baozi, also known as “shengjian bao,” is a variation of baozi that is pan-fried to create a crispy bottom while maintaining a soft and fluffy interior. Like steamed baozi, they contain savory ingredients such as minced pork and vegetables. The pan-frying process adds a delightful crunch to the buns, making them a popular breakfast choice in some areas of China.
Soy Milk
Soy milk is a nutritious and protein-rich alternative to cow’s milk and is a popular breakfast beverage in China. Made from soybeans and water, soy milk has a creamy texture and a slightly nutty flavor. Depending on personal preference, it can be enjoyed plain or with added sweeteners.
Sweetened Soy Milk
Sweetened soy milk is a popular variation that is commonly enjoyed for breakfast. It is made by adding sugar or sweeteners such as honey to the soy milk, giving it a delightful hint of sweetness. Sweetened soy milk is often served warm and pairs well with youtiao or baozi, creating a balanced and fulfilling breakfast combination.
Salted Soy Milk
Salted soy milk, on the other hand, is a savory variation that offers a more unique flavor profile. It is made by adding salt and sometimes other seasonings, such as soy sauce or pickled vegetables, to the soy milk. While it may sound unusual to have a salty beverage for breakfast, salted soy milk provides a savory and refreshing option that is loved by many.
Jianbing
Jianbing is a popular Chinese street food that has gained popularity as a delicious and satisfying breakfast option. It is a savory crepe-like pancake typically filled with various ingredients and sauces, creating a flavorful and hearty breakfast meal.
Traditional Jianbing
Traditional jianbing is made by spreading a thin layer of batter on a flat griddle and cracking an egg onto the center of the batter. The batter is then spread evenly and cooked until it becomes golden brown and crispy. The jianbing is then topped with various toppings such as scallions, cilantro, pickles, and a drizzle of hoisin sauce. It is then folded into a portable wrap and enjoyed on the go.
Modern Jianbing Variations
In recent years, jianbing has undergone various modern twists and interpretations. Some variations include adding fillings such as crispy fried wonton skins, shredded chicken, or cheese. Others experiment with different sauces and condiments, such as spicy chili sauce, garlic aioli, or peanut butter.
These creative and innovative jianbing variations add excitement and flavor to this beloved breakfast item.
Zhou
Zhou, also known as rice porridge or Congee, is another popular Chinese breakfast dish enjoyed for its comforting and nourishing properties. It is made using a similar method to Congee: slowly simmering rice in a large amount of water or broth until it becomes soft and tender.
Savory Zhou
Savory zhou is the most common variation and is often enjoyed as a simple and light breakfast option. It can be made using a plain rice base or adding other grains such as millet or barley for added texture and nutrition. Savory zhou is typically topped with savory garnishes such as salted peanuts, preserved vegetables, or shredded chicken, creating a satisfying and balanced breakfast.
Sweet Zhou
Sweet zhou is a delightful variation enjoyed as a comforting and indulgent breakfast treat. It is made by adding sugar or sweeteners such as rock sugar or honey to the rice and water mixture, infusing the zhou with a gentle sweetness.
Sweet zhou can be further enhanced with toppings such as red bean paste, lotus seeds, or dried fruits, providing a flavor and a touch of decadence to enjoy in the morning.
Tofu
Tofu, also known as bean curd, is a versatile and protein-rich ingredient that can be enjoyed in various forms for breakfast. From savory dishes to comforting soups, tofu adds a nutritious and satisfying element to a Chinese breakfast.
Mapo Tofu
Mapo tofu is a popular breakfast dish that originated from Sichuan cuisine. It is made by cooking soft tofu in a spicy and flavorful sauce that combines chili bean paste, fermented black beans, and Sichuan peppercorns.
This fiery and savory dish is often enjoyed with steamed rice or rice porridge, creating a hearty and satisfying breakfast.
Stinky Tofu
Stinky tofu may not be for everyone, but it is a unique and beloved breakfast option in some areas of China. It is made by fermenting tofu in a brine that contains various ingredients, such as soybeans and vegetables.
The fermentation process gives the tofu a pungent odor that is loved by some and despised by others. Stinky tofu is typically deep-fried and served with spicy sauce or pickled cabbage, creating a flavorful and aromatic breakfast experience.
Doujiang
Doujiang, also known as soymilk, is a popular breakfast beverage in China that is made from soybeans. It is a creamy and nutritious alternative to cow’s milk, offering a range of health benefits and a unique flavor profile.
Sweet Doujiang
Sweet doujiang is the most common variation of this breakfast beverage. It is made by grinding soaked soybeans with water and extracting the liquid through a cheesecloth or a specialized machine. The resulting soymilk is then sweetened with sugar or sweeteners such as rock sugar or honey.
Sweet doujiang is often enjoyed warm or cold and pairs well with various Chinese breakfast snacks, providing a satisfying and refreshing start to the day.
Salty Doujiang
Salty doujiang is a less common variation that offers a savory twist to this traditional breakfast beverage. It is made by adding salt and sometimes other seasonings such as soy sauce or chicken bouillon to the soymilk, giving it a subtle and savory flavor.
Salty doujiang is often enjoyed warm and can be paired with savory breakfast items such as youtiao or baozi, creating a balanced and flavorful breakfast combination.
Dandan Noodles
Dandan noodles are a popular spicy Sichuan dish that has found its way into Chinese breakfast menus. These noodles are typically served in a flavorful and spicy sauce that combines chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, minced pork, and scallions, creating a mouthwatering and satisfying breakfast dish.
Traditional Dandan Noodles
Traditional dandan noodles are made by tossing freshly cooked noodles in a spicy sauce made from chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, minced pork, and various seasonings. The noodles are then garnished with sliced scallions and sometimes crushed peanuts, adding a contrasting crunch to the dish. Traditional dandan noodles are full of bold and spicy flavors that will wake your taste buds in the morning.
Spicy Dandan Noodles
For those who enjoy an extra kick of spice, spicy dandan noodles are a perfect choice. This variation adds more chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns to the sauce, intensifying the heat and numbing sensation Sichuan cuisine is known for. Spicy dandan noodles are not for the faint of heart but are sure to satisfy the cravings of spice lovers and adventurous breakfast enthusiasts.
Mantou
Mantou, also known as Chinese steamed bread, is a staple Chinese breakfast item enjoyed in various ways. These plain, fluffy buns can be enjoyed independently or used as a vessel for different fillings or sauces, offering a simple and versatile breakfast option.
Plain Mantou
Plain mantou is this Chinese breakfast item’s most basic and classic form. It is made from a simple mixture of flour, water, yeast, and sugar, which is then steamed until the bread becomes soft and fluffy. Plain mantou can be enjoyed on its own, served with a bowl of Congee or soy milk, or used as a vessel for various fillings such as braised pork belly or fried chicken.
Stuffed Mantou
Stuffed mantou adds a delicious twist to the classic breakfast item by adding a flavorful filling to the soft and fluffy bun. Typical fillings include minced pork, sweet red bean paste, or a combination of vegetables.
Stuffed mantou is often a convenient and satisfying breakfast option that can be eaten on the go or packed for a mid-morning snack. Combining the fluffy bun and the savory or sweet filling creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
In conclusion, Chinese breakfast offers many delicious and satisfying options to start your day. Whether you prefer a comforting bowl of Congee, crispy youtiao dipped in soy milk, or savory baozi packed with flavorful fillings, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
From traditional classics to modern variations, Chinese breakfast items provide a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and nutritional value that will leave you fueled and ready to tackle the day ahead. So, why not explore the diverse world of Chinese breakfast and treat yourself to a delicious and wholesome morning meal?
Exploring the Delights of Traditional Chinese Breakfast: Cheong Fun
Regarding common Chinese breakfast, the Chinese culinary scene offers many tantalizing options, each bursting with unique flavors and textures. Among the array of morning delights, Cheong Fun, also known as Rice Noodle Rolls, stands out as a quintessential choice, revered not only during Dim Sum sessions but also as a beloved street food staple in bustling cities like Hong Kong and Guangzhou.
Picture this: the bustling streets of Hong Kong awaken with the aroma of steaming Cheong Fun, enticing passersby with its delicate yet hearty allure. While traditionally savored at Dim Sum restaurants, these rice noodle rolls have seamlessly transcended into street food, capturing the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike.
What makes Cheong Fun a breakfast favorite? It’s the perfect marriage of simplicity and sophistication, with each roll encapsulating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The silky-smooth rice noodle exterior encases various delectable fillings, ranging from succulent shrimp to savory barbecued pork, creating a symphony of taste sensations with every bite.
One cannot discuss Cheong Fun without acknowledging the artistry behind its preparation. Traditionally, these delicate rice noodle rolls are steamed perfectly using massive steaming machines, commonly seen in Dim Sum kitchens and bustling street food stalls. The steamers work tirelessly to ensure that each roll emerges impeccably tender and infused with the essence of the fillings within.
For enthusiasts eager to recreate the magic of Cheong Fun in the comfort of their own homes, the prospect of replicating the steaming process may seem daunting. However, fear not! With ingenuity and resourcefulness, crafting homemade Cheong Fun is feasible, albeit with a few creative adjustments.
While we may not have access to industrial-sized steaming machines, home cooks can employ alternative methods such as using a simple steaming basket or improvised steaming setups to achieve satisfactory results. The key lies in patience and precision, ensuring the rice noodle rolls are steamed just right to achieve that coveted soft yet slightly chewy texture.
Whether enjoyed at Dim Sum brunches or savored as a comforting street food breakfast, Cheong Fun embodies the essence of Chinese culinary tradition, offering a delightful culinary journey for the senses. So, why not embark on your own Cheong Fun adventure? With a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of enthusiasm, you’ll soon discover why this classic breakfast delight holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers worldwide.
