As you set out to make traditional Chinese dishes like dumplings, kung pao chicken, mapo tofu, hot and sour soup, and fried rice, having the proper utensils can make all the difference in creating authentic and delicious meals. Some cooking utensils are essential to making these dishes, while others can be substituted with standard kitchen tools. This blog post will explore the critical cooking utensils you need to create these staple Chinese dishes.
Rolling Pin
A rolling pin is an essential tool for making dumplings. Dumpling wrappers are thin and need to be rolled out evenly. A standard rolling pin, wooden or silicone, can do the job. A small rolling pin with tapered ends is ideal for rolling out the edges of the wrapper. If you don’t have a rolling pin, a wine bottle or a large cylindrical object can work in its place.
Wok
A wok is a versatile cooking utensil in Chinese cuisine. It’s used for stir-frying, deep-frying, and steaming. A wok with a flat bottom is ideal for cooking on a gas or electric stove. Avoid using woks with non-stick coatings, as they can’t withstand high temperatures. Carbon steel or cast iron woks are durable and great for high-heat cooking.
Spatula
A spatula is essential for stir-frying and flipping ingredients in a wok. A long-handled spatula is ideal for reaching the bottom of the wok, while a short-handled spatula helps flip food over in a frying pan. A flexible metal spatula is better for stir-frying, while a wooden spatula is better for scooping food from the wok without damaging its surface.
Cleaver
A cleaver is a versatile cutting tool in Chinese cooking. It’s used for cutting meat, chopping vegetables, and mincing garlic and ginger. A broad, heavy-blade cleaver is ideal for cutting through bone and joints. A thin-bladed chopper is better for precision work like slicing vegetables. A stainless steel cleaver is more durable, while a carbon steel cleaver is easier to sharpen.
Wooden Steamer Basket
A wooden steamer basket is essential for steaming dumplings and buns. It’s made of porous bamboo, allowing steam to circulate through it. A multi-level steamer basket helps steam different types of dumplings simultaneously. A metal steamer basket or a colander placed over a pot of boiling water can work in a pinch if you don't have a wooden steamer basket.
In conclusion, the proper utensils are critical when cooking traditional Chinese dishes. Essential cooking utensils like a rolling pin, wok, spatula, cleaver, and wooden steamer basket can make all the difference in creating authentic and delicious meals. While some of these utensils may be specialized, they are worth investing in if you plan to cook these dishes frequently. With these essential cooking utensils in your kitchen, you’ll be on your way to mastering the art of Chinese cuisine in no time. Need help with finding the proper Chinese cooking utensils? Inquire with any online stores that may carry them.
