The right Chinese cooking ingredients in your pantry are essential to master Chinese cuisine. These essentials can last a long time and can be used in various dishes. Read on to learn about some of them. You’ll be glad you did! Also, don’t forget to stock up on fish and oyster sauce! See over here for the best Chinese food delivery in Ajman.
Fish sauce:
Chinese cuisine has unique ingredients, so using the right ones can make a real difference in your cooking. From sauces to noodles, you will need certain ingredients to make certain dishes. Chinese soy sauce, for example, is generally saltier and less sweet than the Japanese version.
Oyster sauce:
Oyster sauce is a staple of Chinese cooking, adding a rich umami taste to dishes. It is usually used in stir-fries but can also be added to rice dishes and steamed vegetables. It is often drizzled over steamed vegetables, including Chinese broccoli. It is also a must-have in stir-fried dishes, which lends a glossy appearance.
White pepper:
White pepper is one of the most important ingredients in Chinese cooking and can be easily obtained. It can come in different forms, such as whole or ground, and is particularly good for stews and braised dishes. Another important ingredient for Chinese cooking is cornstarch or corn flour. Although it does not have a flavor, it is a must-have ingredient in the Chinese pantry.
Hoisin sauce:
Hoisin sauce is a dark, sweet sauce made from fermented yellow soybeans and wheat flour. It is a common ingredient in Cantonese cooking and makes an excellent condiment for various dishes. It is often used as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, pork ribs, and Peking duck. You can purchase hoisin sauce or make your own with simple ingredients.
Sichuan peppercorns:
The Sichuan peppercorn, or Szechuan pepper, is a fundamental ingredient in Chinese cuisine. This pepper has a distinct aroma and flavor that is quite different from most peppers. Its citrus flavor lends a lemony undertone to dishes and creates a slight tingle in the mouth. In addition to being an essential ingredient in Chinese cuisine, it can help cure indigestion, arthritis, and diarrhea. Despite its high potency and numbing quality, Sichuan peppercorns are typically used in small quantities.