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What are the 4 main styles of Chinese cuisine?
  • September 17,2023

Chinese cuisine is one of most diverse and interesting cuisines in world with a variety of specialties and flavors. Chinese cuisine is divided into different regional styles, each with its own unique taste, ingredients, and cooking techniques. The cuisine is divided into four main styles which include Cantonese, Sichuan, Shandong, and Jiangsu.

Cantonese Cuisine

Cantonese cuisine is one of most popular and most diverse styles of Chinese cuisine. This style of cooking originated from Guangdong province of China and is well known for its light, fresh, and subtle flavors. Cantonese cuisine is all about fresh ingredients, with a strong emphasis on seafood, vegetables, and meat. The dishes are usually steamed, stir-fried, or boiled, and often served with a light sauce.

Some of most famous dishes of Cantonese cuisine include Dim Sum, Sweet and Sour Pork, and Roast Duck. The ingredients used in this cuisine are locally sourced and seasonal which makes dishes even more delicious.

Sichuan Cuisine

Sichuan cuisine originated from Sichuan province of China, and it is famously known for its spiciness. This style of cooking is famous for its bold flavors, use of Sichuan peppercorns, and chili peppers. Sichuan cuisine is known for its spicy, sour, sweet, and salty flavors in a single dish, making it one of most unique cuisines in world.

Some of most famous dishes of Sichuan cuisine include Kung Pao Chicken, Mapo Tofu, and Dan Dan Noodles. These dishes are typically stir-fried and flavored with a variety of spices, including ginger, garlic, and green onion.

Shandong Cuisine

Shandong cuisine is one of oldest and most prominent styles of Chinese cuisine, which originated from Shandong province of China. This style of cooking emphasizes seafood and meat dishes, with a focus on soups, stews, and braised dishes.

Shandong cuisine is known for its use of vinegar, especially in braised dishes, which gives dishes a distinct flavor. Some of most famous dishes of Shandong cuisine include Braised Sea Cucumber with Scallions, Braised Pork Belly, and Jiaodong-style Pancakes.

Jiangsu Cuisine

Jiangsu cuisine, also known as Huaiyang cuisine, is one of most sophisticated and refined styles of Chinese cuisine, which originated from Jiangsu province of China. This style of cooking is known for its delicate and subtle flavors, with a focus on seafood and freshwater fish dishes.

Jiangsu cuisine is known for its use of umami ingredients, such as aged vinegar and Shaoxing wine. Some of most famous dishes of Jiangsu cuisine include Lion's Head Meatballs, Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish, and Braised Bamboo Shoots.

In conclusion, Chinese cuisine is an exciting and diverse cuisine that is rich in history and flavor. Each of four main styles of Chinese cuisine offers its own unique taste, ingredients, and cooking techniques. Cantonese, Sichuan, Shandong, and Jiangsu are some of the most popular and famous styles of Chinese cuisine that have gained worldwide recognition.