Ever craved the rich flavours of Asian cuisine right from the comfort of your home?
Finding that perfect balance of taste and authenticity in takeout can often be a challenge.
Asian takeout offers a vast array of dishes that are not only delicious but can be made healthier and faster than traditional delivery.
From the ever-popular dumplings to the spicy delights of Kung Pao Chicken, our blog will take you on a culinary journey exploring the diverse and flavourful options of Asian takeout food.
Dumplings: A Staple in Asian Takeout Food
Dumplings, in their myriad forms, serve as a cornerstone of Asian cuisine and are a ubiquitous feature in Asian takeout menus across the globe. These delectable parcels, whether steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, encapsulate the essence of regional flavors and culinary traditions. From the tender soup dumplings of Shanghai to the crispy potstickers beloved in northern China, dumplings offer a delightful introduction to the rich tapestry of Asian food culture.
Each region boasts its own unique take on this culinary staple, with ingredients and cooking methods that reflect local tastes and resources. For instance:
- Northern China favors hearty fillings like pork and cabbage wrapped in thick dough, perfect for boiling or pan-frying.
- In contrast, southern regions such as Guangdong prefer delicate shrimp-filled dumplings, often steamed to preserve their subtle flavors. This diversity not only highlights the versatility of dumplings but also their integral role in the mosaic of Asian cuisine.
Spring Rolls: The Perfect Start to Your Asian Takeout Feast
Spring rolls are a celebrated starter in Asian takeout, renowned for their crisp exterior and bursting with a variety of fresh and vibrant fillings. These rolls, often wrapped in a thin rice paper, provide a lighter appetizer option that perfectly complements the richer main dishes. The fillings can range from shrimp and pork to an all-vegetable medley, making them a versatile choice for any palate.
The appeal of spring rolls extends beyond their taste to include their adaptability and visual appeal. Here are a few popular variations:
- Vegetable spring rolls: Packed with lettuce, carrots, and cucumbers, often enhanced with fresh herbs like mint or cilantro.
- Seafood spring rolls: Featuring ingredients like shrimp or fresh crab meat, these are a favourite for those who prefer a hint of the ocean in their appetizer.
This adaptability not only makes spring rolls a staple in takeout orders but also a delightful way to start any Asian culinary adventure.
Kung Pao Chicken: A Spicy Delight in Asian Takeout
Kung Pao Chicken, a fiery staple of Sichuan cuisine, has transcended its provincial origins to become a beloved dish in Asian takeout menus worldwide. Originally crafted to please the palate of Ding Baozhen, a Qing Dynasty official, this dish combines cubed chicken, crunchy peanuts, and a liberal use of chillies. Its distinctive taste is further enhanced by the bold flavours of garlic, Sichuan peppercorns, and occasionally, a hint of sesame oil, creating a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savoury notes.
What sets Kung Pao Chicken apart in the realm of Asian takeout is not just its intense flavour profile but also its adaptability to different spice levels, making it a versatile choice for various palates. Whether you prefer a milder version or a dish that packs a punch, Kung Pao Chicken can be tailored to suit your taste. This adaptability, combined with its rich historical background, cements Kung Pao Chicken’s status as a must-try dish for anyone exploring the delights of Asian cuisine.
Lo Mein and Chow Fun: Versatile Noodles in Asian Takeout
Lo Mein and Chow Fun are two quintessential noodle dishes in Asian takeout that exemplify the versatility and depth of this cuisine. Lo Mein, typically made with soft, boiled noodles, is known for its ability to soak up the rich, soy-based sauces it’s tossed with, making every bite flavourful. Chow Fun, on the other hand, uses wide, flat rice noodles that are stir-fried to achieve a smoky aroma, often mixed with bean sprouts, onions, and slices of beef or chicken. Both dishes are highly adaptable, allowing for a variety of proteins and vegetables to be added according to personal taste.
The beauty of these noodle dishes lies in their simplicity and the ease with which they can be customised. Whether you’re in the mood for a light, vegetable-packed meal or a hearty dish brimming with meat, both Lo Mein and Chow Fun can be adjusted to meet your cravings. Popular additions include:
- Bell peppers and broccoli for a crunchy, nutritious twist.
- Shrimp or sliced pork for a protein-rich meal.
This flexibility not only makes them a staple on takeout menus but also a favourite among home cooks looking to replicate authentic Asian flavours.
Rice Varieties: The Foundation of Asian Takeout Meals
In the world of Asian takeout, rice is not just a side dish; it’s a crucial component that complements every meal. The most common types of rice served include white rice and brown rice. White rice, with its fluffy texture and mild flavour, is a perfect base for soaking up rich sauces and bold flavours of dishes like curry or beef broccoli. Brown rice offers a nuttier taste and a chewier texture, providing a healthier option rich in fiber, which pairs well with lighter dishes such as steamed vegetables or grilled fish.
Beyond the basic white and brown rice, Asian cuisine also features a variety of other rice types, each bringing its unique characteristics to the table. For instance, Jasmine rice, known for its fragrant aroma, is often served with Thai dishes, while sticky rice is commonly found in both sweet and savoury dishes from Japan and China. The choice of rice can significantly affect the taste and feel of a meal, making it essential to select the right type to complement the main dishes of your takeout order.
Beef and Broccoli: A Classic Asian Takeout Choice
Beef and broccoli is a beloved classic in the realm of Asian takeout, known for its robust flavours and satisfying texture. The dish typically involves beef slices stir-fried with broccoli in a savory sauce made from a blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. This combination not only offers a delightful taste but also provides a good source of protein and vitamins from the beef and broccoli respectively.
The cooking process for beef and broccoli is straightforward yet requires some finesse to perfect. It begins with marinating the beef to enhance its flavour and tenderness. Following this, both the beef and broccoli are stir-fried over high heat, which helps to retain the bright green color of the broccoli and the juicy tenderness of the beef. This method ensures each bite is infused with the rich sauce, making it a popular choice for both its taste and quick preparation time.
Chicken and Broccoli: A Healthier Takeout Option
Chicken and broccoli stir-fry is a lighter yet equally tasty alternative to beef and broccoli, making it an excellent option for health-conscious diners. This dish typically consists of lean chicken breast pieces stir-fried with broccoli, all coated in a mild yet flavorful sauce. Nutritionally, chicken and broccoli is a powerhouse, offering a substantial amount of protein while being lower in calories and fat compared to its beef counterpart.
For those looking to maximize the health benefits, requesting the chicken and broccoli to be steamed rather than stir-fried can reduce the oil content significantly. This modification not only lowers the calorie and fat content but also preserves the natural flavours and nutrients of the chicken and broccoli, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal option in Asian takeout cuisine.
Soups: Warming Up with Asian Takeout
Asian takeout offers a comforting array of soups, each brimming with unique flavours and ingredients. Egg drop soup, a beloved classic, features a silky broth enriched with ribbons of beaten eggs, often enhanced with a sprinkle of spring onions or a dash of soy sauce for extra flavour. This simple yet satisfying soup is a perfect starter for any meal.
For those seeking more robust options, wonton soups and broth-based soups provide a heartier choice. Wonton soups, filled with delicate dumplings stuffed with seasoned pork or shrimp, swim in a clear, flavourful broth. Meanwhile, broth-based soups might include ingredients like noodles, vegetables, or tender pieces of meat, making them a meal in themselves.
Szechuan Tofu: A Bold Flavour in Asian Takeout
Szechuan Tofu stands out in Asian takeout for its bold and spicy flavours. This dish is a favourite for those who love a good kick of heat in their meals. The main ingredient, tofu, is fried until crispy and then bathed in a spicy sauce made with Szechuan peppercorns, garlic, and chilli paste, creating a taste that is both intense and satisfying.
The popularity of Szechuan Tofu can be attributed to its rich layers of flavour and adaptable spice levels. Here are a few key components that contribute to its unique taste:
- Szechuan peppercorns: provide a numbing sensation
- Chilli paste: adds the fiery heat
- Garlic and ginger: build the foundational aromatic profile
This combination ensures that each bite of Szechuan Tofu is a delightful explosion of flavours, making it a standout dish in Asian takeout options.
Buddha’s Delight: A Vegetarian’s Choice in Asian Takeout
Buddha’s Delight, a cherished vegetarian dish in Asian takeout, offers a delightful array of ingredients that blend harmoniously to create a nutritious meal. This dish typically includes tofu, an assortment of mushrooms, and various greens like bok choy or Napa cabbage. Each ingredient is chosen for its health benefits and its ability to absorb the rich flavours of the sauce, which often includes soy sauce, sesame oil, and a hint of sugar to balance the savoury notes.
The health benefits of Buddha’s Delight make it a popular choice among health-conscious diners. Here are some notable advantages:
- Tofu and mushrooms provide a high-quality protein source, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Leafy greens contribute vitamins and minerals, boosting overall health and wellness.
- The dish’s low-fat content and high fibre offer a filling meal that aids in digestion and sustained energy levels. This makes Buddha’s Delight not just a feast for the taste buds but also a nourishing option for the body.
Moo Shu Vegetables: A Flavorful Mix in Asian Takeout
Moo Shu Vegetables stand out in the realm of Asian takeout due to their vibrant mix of flavours and textures. Originating from a traditional Chinese dish that included pork, the modern takeout versions often feature a medley of stir-fried vegetables and sometimes eggs, wrapped in a thin pancake or served over rice.
This dish not only offers a delightful taste but is also highly adaptable to personal preferences. Common ingredients in Moo Shu Vegetables include:
- Shredded cabbage and carrots for crunch
- Mushrooms for a meaty texture
- A splash of hoisin sauce for a sweet and salty finish
These elements make Moo Shu Vegetables a versatile and satisfying option in any Asian takeout order.
Eggplant in Asian Takeout: A Versatile Vegetable
Eggplant is a standout vegetable in Asian takeout, particularly shining in dishes like Eggplant with Garlic Sauce. This dish showcases eggplant’s ability to absorb flavours and deliver them in a rich, satisfying way. The vegetable’s spongy texture makes it perfect for soaking up the bold garlic sauce, which is typically a blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sugar to balance the savoury elements.
The preparation of Eggplant with Garlic Sauce involves several steps that enhance its taste and texture:
- Soaking and drying: Eggplant pieces are soaked in water to remove bitterness, then dried.
- Coating and frying: They’re coated in cornstarch and fried until golden, making the exterior slightly crispy.
- Simmering in sauce: The fried eggplant is then simmered in the garlic sauce, allowing it to absorb the flavours deeply. This method ensures the eggplant is flavourful and tender, making it a beloved choice in Asian takeout menus.
Salmon: A Healthy Option in Asian Takeout
Salmon, often celebrated for its health benefits and versatile nature, has found a delightful place in Asian takeout cuisine. Dishes like Baked Salmon are not only a testament to the adaptability of this fish but also to the creative culinary methods that enhance its flavour. The preparation typically involves marinating the salmon in a blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, then baking it to perfection, which keeps the fish moist and flaky.
The inclusion of salmon in Asian takeout offers a healthier alternative to more traditional meat-based dishes. Here are some of the benefits:
- Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon help in improving heart health and brain function.
- High-quality protein aids in muscle repair and growth.
This makes salmon not just a tasty option but also a nourishing one that complements the vibrant flavours of Asian cuisine.
Shrimp Dishes: Seafood Delights in Asian Takeout
Shrimp dishes are a highlight in Asian takeout, offering a delightful variety of flavours and textures. Shrimp with Lobster Sauce is a popular choice, known for its creamy, flavourful sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy shrimp. The dish typically includes ground pork and fermented black beans, which add depth and richness to the sauce. This combination of ingredients creates a harmonious blend that is both comforting and satisfying.
The preparation of Shrimp with Lobster Sauce involves several key steps:
- Frying the shrimp briefly to retain their succulence
- Simmering the ground pork and black beans to develop the flavours
- Combining everything with a garlic and ginger-infused broth, thickened with cornstarch for that silky texture. This meticulous process ensures that each component contributes to the overall taste, making it a beloved dish in Asian takeout menus.
Happy Family: A Popular Medley in Asian Takeout
The Happy Family dish, a staple in Asian takeout, is a vibrant medley of ingredients that symbolises unity and joy. This dish typically includes a variety of proteins like shrimp, beef, chicken, and sometimes even scallops or lobster, paired with an assortment of fresh vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and mushrooms. The diversity of ingredients not only offers a rich flavour profile but also caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, making it a popular choice for family meals or group gatherings.
What truly sets the Happy Family dish apart is its preparation and presentation. The ingredients are usually stir-fried in a light but flavourful sauce, often a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a hint of garlic and ginger, which binds the diverse components into a harmonious dish. Served typically over a bed of steamed rice or noodles, this dish is not only a feast for the palate but also for the eyes, with its colourful array of ingredients that promise a satisfying dining experience.
Moo Goo Gai Pan: A Staple Dish in Asian Takeout
Moo Goo Gai Pan, a celebrated dish in Asian takeout, features a delightful mix of chicken and mushrooms, often accompanied by a variety of vegetables such as snow peas, carrots, and water chestnuts. This dish is not only cherished for its tender slices of chicken and savory mushrooms but also for the rich, aromatic sauce that binds all the ingredients together, typically seasoned with ginger and soy sauce.
The popularity of Moo Goo Gai Pan in takeout cuisine can be attributed to its balanced flavour and nutritional content. It offers a good source of protein from the chicken while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. Here are some reasons why it’s a staple:
- Versatility: It can be served over rice or noodles.
- Healthiness: It’s a lighter option compared to fried dishes.
This makes Moo Goo Gai Pan a consistent favourite among fans of Asian cuisine, ensuring it maintains its place on menus worldwide.
Chop Suey: Understanding This Asian Takeout Favourite
Chop Suey, a dish surrounded by mystery and intrigue, has become synonymous with Asian takeout in many parts of the world. Its name, translating to ‘odds and ends’ in several Chinese dialects, hints at its humble beginnings, likely as a simple stir-fry made from leftover ingredients. This dish not only offers a glimpse into the resourcefulness of early Chinese American communities but also reflects the adaptability and fusion of culinary cultures.
Today, Chop Suey can be found in numerous variations, each adding a unique twist to the original concept. Common ingredients include:
- Meat (such as chicken, beef, or pork)
- Eggs
- A variety of vegetables like bean sprouts, cabbage, and carrots
These are stir-fried with a savoury sauce, often based on soy sauce and oyster sauce, making Chop Suey a versatile and beloved choice in the realm of Asian takeout.
Cucumber Salad: A Refreshing Side in Asian Takeout
Cucumber salad often serves as a refreshing side dish in the realm of Asian takeout, providing a crisp and cooling contrast to the more robust, spicy main dishes. Its simplicity allows it to complement a wide range of meals, from fiery Szechuan dishes to rich, savoury noodle plates. The basic preparation of cucumber salad involves thinly slicing cucumbers and tossing them in a light dressing, typically made from ingredients like vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
The versatility of cucumber salad is evident in the various regional twists it can adopt. For instance:
- Japanese cucumber salad might include a dash of rice vinegar and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Thai-style could be jazzed up with lime juice and crushed peanuts.
- Korean versions often feature a spicy kick with the addition of gochujang. These variations not only add a unique flavour profile to each meal but also enhance the overall dining experience by offering a palate-cleansing freshness.
Elevate Your Asian Takeout Experience with Indulge
INDULGE offers a unique twist to the Asian takeout experience in Zurich by integrating curated tours and exclusive dining experiences. Imagine savouring a dish of Kung Pao Chicken, not just at your home but at a hidden gem in Zurich West, guided by local food experts. This integration of dining with cultural exploration elevates the simple act of eating into a comprehensive culinary adventure.
Here’s what you can expect when you choose INDULGE for your Asian takeout experience:
- Guided food tours in Zurich’s vibrant neighbourhoods, exploring both traditional Swiss and international Asian cuisines.
- Exclusive dining experiences that pair classic Asian dishes with the perfect setting and expert insights.
This approach not only enhances the flavour but also deepens your appreciation of the food’s cultural background.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular Chinese takeaway dishes?
Some of the most popular Chinese takeaway dishes include Dumplings, Kung Pao Chicken, Lo Mein, Chow Fun, Beef and Broccoli, and Moo Goo Gai Pan. Each dish offers a unique taste experience, from the spicy and savoury flavours of Kung Pao Chicken to the rich and aromatic Moo Goo Gai Pan.
Is takeout Chinese unhealthy?
Takeout Chinese can be unhealthy depending on the dishes chosen and how they are prepared. Many dishes can be high in sodium, fats, and calories, especially those that are deep-fried or have heavy sauces. However, there are healthier options available, such as steamed dishes and those with plenty of vegetables.
What is the healthiest Chinese food takeout?
Healthier Chinese food takeout options include dishes like Chicken and Broccoli, which is often stir-fried with a mild sauce, and Buddha’s Delight, a vegetarian dish packed with tofu, mushrooms, and greens. Asking for dishes to be steamed rather than fried, and opting for brown rice over white, can also make your meal healthier.
