Popular recipes for Chinese summer dishes
One of the most popular dishes served during the summer is jiaozi, or steamed dumplings. These savory little bites are filled with a variety of ingredients like pork, beef, vegetables, and even seafood. The dumplings are then steamed or boiled to perfection and served with a dipping sauce. Another classic dish is liangpi, cold wheat noodles that are typically served with a spicy garlic sauce. Cold dishes like this one are perfect for those hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the stove.
Finally, there’s tangyuan, a sweet dumpling made from glutinous rice flour that is filled with sweet bean paste and served in a warm ginger syrup. Tangyuan is traditionally served at Chinese festivals and celebrations as it symbolizes longevity and good luck for the year ahead.
Types of classic Chinese summer foods
One of the most iconic dishes of summer is jiaozi, or Chinese dumplings. These savory dumplings are filled with pork, beef, or vegetables and steamed to perfection. Legend has it that jiaozi were first invented by the Chinese General Zhang Fei during the Han Dynasty (202 BC-220 AD).
The general’s soldiers had run out of food supplies, so he quickly created a makeshift meal by wrapping some meats inside dough and boiled them. Jiaozi have been a favorite ever since! Another popular summer dish is liangmian, or cold noodles. This light and refreshing dish is made with wheat flour noodles served in a savory sauce. Liangmian can be eaten either hot or cold, making it an ideal choice for a summer picnic. Both dishes are perfect for enjoying with family and friends on hot summer days.