Author: Mi La
The Health Benefits of Chinese Ingredients: A Deep Dive into Traditional Chinese Medicine and Nutrition
Chinese cuisine is renowned not only for its diverse flavors and textures but also for its deep connection to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and wellness. The ingredients used in Chinese cooking are often selected not just for their taste but for their medicinal properties, contributing to both nourishment and healing. From herbs to spices, grains,…
Salted Egg Yolk in Mooncakes: A Traditional Delight of Mid-Autumn Festival
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is a time for family reunions, moon gazing, and, of course, indulging in delicious food. One of the most iconic treats enjoyed during this festive occasion is the mooncake. These round, beautifully crafted pastries are traditionally filled with a variety of sweet and savory fillings, each…
Flour and Steamed Breads in Northern Vietnamese Cuisine
Northern Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its simplicity, elegance, and balance of flavors. It embraces fresh ingredients, delicate seasoning, and traditional cooking techniques. One of the cornerstones of this cuisine is the use of flour in creating a variety of steamed breads and pastries that have been enjoyed for generations. Flour, particularly rice flour and…
The Difference Between Light Soy Sauce and Dark Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is a staple condiment in many Asian cuisines, particularly in Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Southeast Asian cooking. Among the various types of soy sauce, light soy sauce and dark soy sauce are the most commonly used. Though they may appear similar at first glance, they have distinct differences in flavor, color, and usage.…
How to Choose Ingredients for Traditional Chinese Dishes
Chinese cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, aromatic spices, and diverse cooking techniques. Each region of China offers unique ingredients and recipes, with traditional dishes being passed down through generations. Whether you are preparing a classic Cantonese dim sum or a fiery Sichuan hot pot, understanding how to choose the right ingredients is essential…
How to Properly Store Chinese Spices for Long-Term Use
When we think of Chinese cuisine, what often comes to mind is its bold and intricate flavor profile — a harmony of spicy, sweet, sour, and savory notes. This balance is achieved through the use of a vast array of traditional spices and seasonings such as star anise, Sichuan peppercorns, dried chili, ginger,…
Oyster Sauce: The Soul of Stir-Fry Dishes
When it comes to Chinese cooking, few ingredients embody the essence of flavor and depth quite like oyster sauce. Thick, glossy, and rich with umami, oyster sauce is more than just a condiment—it is a flavor amplifier, a culinary tradition, and for many chefs, the soul of stir-fry dishes. Whether you’re preparing vegetables, meats,…
Ginger – The Irreplaceable Spice in Kitchens and Cultures Around the World
In the world of spices, few ingredients hold the timeless, cross-cultural importance of ginger. From ancient herbal remedies in Asia to the spiced cookies of Europe, from savory curries to soothing teas, ginger has found its way into nearly every cuisine and traditional medicine system across the globe. It is not just a spice—it…
Millet in Chinese Breakfast Porridge: A Golden Tradition of Wellness and Flavor
Among the comforting and nutritious breakfasts found across Chinese households, few dishes hold the same nostalgic and healing value as a steaming bowl of millet porridge. Known for its soft texture, subtle nutty flavor, and health-boosting properties, millet has been a staple grain in China for thousands of years. Its role in traditional Chinese…
Ginseng and Medicinal Herbs in Nutritious Soups: Tradition, Wellness, and Culinary Art
For centuries, ginseng and medicinal herbs have been the heart and soul of many traditional soups across Asia, especially in Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese cuisines. More than just flavorful dishes, these soups are regarded as healing elixirs that nourish the body, boost immunity, and support longevity. Often consumed during seasonal changes or periods of…