Chinese Food In America: So Much More Than Takeout
From East to West, discover the rise of Chinese cuisine in America.
Picture this: the mouthwatering aroma of Mongolian Beef, the satisfying crunch of an Egg Roll, and the delightful flavors of Kung Pao Shrimp. If you close your eyes, you can almost you smell the chili and spice all around you. Chinese food has undoubtedly found a permanent place in the hearts and stomachs of many Americans. But, we can’t be the only ones who are curious how this distant cuisine became such a beloved staple across the United States. Prepare to join us on a flavorful journey to uncover the fascinating story behind the soaring popularity of Chinese food in America.
First things first.
What is the Difference Between Real Chinese Food and American Chinese Food?
The difference is based on centuries of fusing Chinese and American culinary styles together with local influences. Moreover, the foods do have their own unique and recognizable styles. Yes, they are related, but they have distinct differences guided by native culture and available resources.
There are 6 key differences: Main Ingredients, Culinary Techniques, Items on the Menu, Sauces and Flavors, Dining (Out) Experiences, Regional Influences
1. Main Ingredients
In China, skilled chefs craft traditional dishes using local ingredients, showcasing vibrant regional flavors like Cantonese, Sichuan, Hunan, and more. Chinese-American cuisine has evolved to incorporate local American ingredients and cater to American tastes. Dishes in the States often features sweeter, milder flavors and sauces compared to traditional Chinese dishes.
2. Culinary Techniques
Traditional Chinese cooking techniques include stir-frying, steaming, braising, and deep-frying. This is adapted by Chinese-American chefs as well. One of the techniques we’ve uncovered is the Chinese method to cook rice. Since almost every kitchen boasts a rice cooker, the need to measure water for your rice is no longer necessary. You’ll never cook rice the same way again. After rinsing your rice, put it in the cooker. Then, stick your pointer finger inside, touch it to top of the rice and pour in the water until it reaches the first line of your finger. Trust us, you’ll cook the perfect rice every time!
3. Items on the Menu
Chinese-American restaurant menus often feature familiar items like General Tso’s chicken, egg rolls, and fortune cookies. While these dishes may not be authentic to Chinese cuisine, they showcase a unique fusion with more added items, creating a distinct culinary experience not found in China or Hong Kong.
4. Sauces and Flavors
There are endless varieties of savory, umami-rich sauces, such as soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce. In the US, walking through your local H Mart or 99 Ranch Market will overwhelm you with the number of options to choose from. Similar to what we mentioned above, sauces in Chinese-American cuisine are often thicker, sweeter, and less complex, catering to American preferences for bolder flavors.
5. Dining (Out) Experiences
Traditional Chinese dining often involves a warm, family-style setting where sharing delectable dishes is a cherished part of the culinary tradition. Dim sum, hot pot, and communal meals are common. Now, you will find dim sum or yum cha with rolling carts in the US too, but most likely you’ll be in a larger city. Dining at Chinese-American restaurants in the smaller towns typically focus on combo platters that include an entree, rice, and sometimes an egg roll. This has become something many Americans rely on to eat for dinner, but will not find these types of options overseas.
6. Regional Influences
In China, the cuisine varies significantly across regions, with each region contributing unique flavors and cooking styles. There are specialties and flavors that are distinct to the place you are visiting. But since the flavors of most Chinese food in America is influenced by a more western palette, you’ll see similar dishes, resulting in a more uniform style across the country.
Where in the US has the best Chinese food?
We know, the “best” Chinese food is a matter of personal taste, but we are proud and lucky to have tried Chinese food all over the country. Exploring restaurants and food in different cities allows for a diverse and rich experience of ChineseAmerican and authentic Chinese cuisines. Depending what you are in the mood for, don’t miss out on the local specialties. When you’re in Boston, the brown lobster sauce is an absolute must. Next time you’re in Queens, if you want extra large and juicy xiao long bao’s, you’ll have plenty of options to chose from. So where is the best Chinese food in the USA?
Top 13 US Cities with the Best Chinese Food: New York City, New York; San Francisco, California; Los Angeles, California; Chicago, Illinois; Houston, Texas; Flushing, Queens, New York; Seattle, Washington; Boston, Massachusetts; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Las Vegas, Nevada; Atlanta, Georgia; Edison, New Jersey; Washington, DC
1. New York City, New York
With its large and diverse Chinese-American population, NYC boasts a vast array of regional Chinese cuisines. Chinatown Manhattan is particularly famous for its authentic and delicious Chinese dining experiences. Did you know that New York City is home to over ten Chinatowns? You can find them in almost every borough.
2. San Francisco, California
The city’s Chinatown is one of the oldest and largest in North America, offering a rich tapestry of Cantonese, Sichuan, and other regional Chinese cuisines. San Francisco is known for its high-quality dim sum and seafood.
3. Los Angeles, California
LA is home to a significant Chinese community, and areas like San Gabriel Valley, Monterey Park and Alhambra, are renowned for their authentic and diverse Chinese offerings. From dim sum to hand-pulled noodles, the city has a lot to offer.
4. Chicago, Illinois
The city’s Chinatown is a hub for Chinese cuisine, featuring a mix of regional styles. Chicago is known for its diverse and innovative Chinese-American dishes.
5. Houston, Texas
With a growing Asian population, Houston has seen an expansion of its Chinese culinary scene. The city offers a variety of regional Chinese cuisines, including Sichuan and Hunan.
6. Flushing, Queens, New York
Often referred to as the “real” Chinatown of New York City, Flushing is home to a large and diverse Chinese community, providing an authentic taste of various regional cuisines.
7. Seattle, Washington
Seattle’s International District is known for its Chinese food scene, offering a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes. The city is particularly praised for its dim sum and seafood.
8. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston’s Chinatown is one of the oldest in the United States, offering a mix of traditional and modern Chinese dishes. The city is known for its diverse regional options.
9. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The city has a thriving Chinatown known for its diverse Chinese cuisines, including Cantonese, Sichuan, and more. It’s a great place for dim sum and other authentic dishes.
10. Las Vegas, Nevada
With a growing Asian population, Las Vegas has seen an expansion of its Chinese culinary scene. The city offers a variety of regional Chinese cuisines, and its famous strip features many Chinese restaurants.
11. Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta has a burgeoning Asian community, and Buford Highway is known for its diverse range of international cuisines, including Chinese. The city offers a mix of traditional and fusion dishes.
12. Edison, New Jersey
With a significant Asian population, Edison has become a hub for diverse Chinese cuisine. The township offers an extensive range of restaurants serving various regional specialties.
13. Washington, D.C.
The nation’s capital has a growing Chinese food scene, with neighborhoods like Chinatown offering a mix of traditional and modern Chinese dishes. There’s a focus on both Cantonese and Northern Chinese cuisines.
What is a Famous American Chinese Dish?
One of the most famous American Chinese dishes is General Tso’s Chicken. This iconic dish features deep-fried chicken pieces that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, coated in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce. The sauce typically includes ingredients like soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. General Tso’s Chicken is often garnished with scallions and sometimes red chili peppers for an extra kick. Despite its popularity in the United States, it’s important to note that General Tso’s Chicken is not a traditional Chinese dish; its origins are rooted in Chinese-American cuisine, and it has become a symbol of the fusion of flavors that characterizes this culinary tradition.
Another famous American Chinese dish is Egg Foo Young. This is an omelet-style dish made with beaten eggs and a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meats (such as shrimp, chicken, or pork), and sometimes bean sprouts. It is typically served with a savory brown gravy. The omelet is often pan-fried until golden brown and served with a rich brown sauce that adds depth and umami to the dish. It provides a satisfying and comforting blend of textures and flavors. Egg Foo Young is a prime example of the adaptation of traditional Chinese ingredients and cooking techniques to create a dish that caters to American preferences for egg-based dishes.
What is the Healthiest Chinese Food Takeout?
Many people often consider Chinese food an unhealthy, fattening option when deciding what to eat. However, you can order or prepare many healthy food items that are quite nutritious and will definitely contain fewer calories than a cheeseburger.
When preparing food, choose a steamed dish rather than something fried. You can enjoy steamed dumplings, vegetables, chicken, shrimp, or seafood. One of our favorite steamed dishes is steamed chicken and mushrooms over white rice. We also consider har gow, which is a steamed shrimp dumpling, a staple.
Soup can also be satisfying and lower in calories compared to some other options. Hot and Sour or Wonton soups are light but rich in flavor and provide a satisfying bite. If you’re ordering a dish with rice, opt for brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients.
What is the Most Unhealthy Chinese Food Dish?
Contrary to the steamed food we just discussed, the fried food will be the most unhealthy option when you are ordering food at a Chinese restaurant. Additionally, it’s important to note that the healthiness of a dish can vary based on other factors such as cooking methods, portion sizes, and specific restaurant preparations too.
One dish that is often considered less healthy due to its preparation method and sauce is Sesame Chicken. This dish typically involves deep-frying battered chicken pieces and then coating them in a sweet and savory sauce. The batter and frying process contribute to its higher calorie and fat content, while the sauce adds sweetness and sometimes a notable amount of sugar
Another dish is Crab Rangoon. A popular appetizer that consists of deep-fried wontons filled with a mixture of cream cheese, crab meat, and seasonings. While delicious, this dish is typically high in both calories and fat due to the frying process and the cream cheese filling.
Is Lo Mein Healthier than Fried Rice?
Yes, lo mein tends to be a slightly healthier option than fried rice. Both dishes offer the opportunity to include vegetables and lean protein, but lo mein has a lower reliance on oil during cooking. Plus, the potential for whole-grain noodles contribute to its better overall nutritional profile.
What is the Most Popular Chinese Meal?
The quest to identify the most popular Chinese meal is a subject of ongoing debate and intrigue. At the heart of this culinary controversy lies the question: what dish claims the top spot? Many will say, Orange Chicken. While others will stake their claim to Bourbon Chicken. This culinary conundrum often gives rise to a series of thought-provoking questions, such as “Are you from the east coast or the west coast?” and “What did you try when you were at the mall as a kid?” These inquiries not only reflect regional and personal culinary experiences but also offer insights into individual preferences and biases.
It’s important to note that Orange Chicken and Bourbon Chicken have garnered widespread acclaim for their distinct and delectable flavors, making the task of determining the most popular Chinese meal a highly subjective and, at times, a mouthwatering pursuit.
What is Orange Chicken?
Orange Chicken features bite-sized pieces of deep-fried chicken tossed in a sweet and tangy orange-flavored sauce. The combination of crispy chicken and the citrus-infused sauce creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is often loved by those ordering Chinese takeout. Its distinct taste and the balance of sweet and savory notes make Orange Chicken a favorite for many who enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of Chinese takeout cuisine.
What is Bourbon Chicken?
Bourbon Chicken consists of bite-sized pieces of chicken cooked in a flavorful sauce that includes soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and bourbon. The result is a sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavor profile that appeals to many. Often served with vegetables or over rice, Bourbon Chicken has become a popular choice in Chinese-American cuisine and is frequently featured on Chinese takeout menus. Its rich and indulgent taste makes it a satisfying option for those looking to enjoy a delicious and comforting meal.
What’s the Difference Between Chow Mein and Lo Mein?
The main difference between chow mein and lo mein is how the noodle dish is prepared. Chow mein translates to “fried noodles” and lo mein translates to “tossed noodles”.
Chow Mein is a Chinese dish that typically consists of stir-fried noodles, meat (such as chicken, beef, or shrimp), vegetables, and sometimes bean sprouts. The dish may also include a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other seasonings. The term “chow mein” translates to “fried noodles” in Cantonese, reflecting the dish’s primary component. The noodles used in chow mein are typically thin and crispy. To achieve the desired texture, the noodles are often fried separately until they become golden brown and crunchy. The stir-fried meat and vegetables are then combined with the crispy noodles, creating a dish with a delightful contrast in texture between the crunchy noodles and the tender stir-fried ingredients.
Lo Mein is a Chinese dish that features soft, boiled noodles tossed with a variety of stir-fried ingredients, including vegetables, meat, and sometimes tofu or seafood. The term “lo mein” translates to “tossed noodles” in Cantonese, emphasizing the cooking method of combining the noodles with the other ingredients. The noodles used in lo mein are thicker and softer compared to the thin and crispy noodles used in chow mein. They are typically boiled or steamed before being stir-fried briefly with the other components. The dish may include a savory sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other seasonings, adding depth and flavor to the noodles and ingredients.
Did you know that depending where you are located geographically in the United States could help determine the difference between chow mein and lo mein? Even though they are technically different noodles/dishes, in some areas across America they are used interchangeably. For example, if you are in Los Angeles, and you order chow mein, you would get what someone who was in New York City would get if they ordered lo mein. Both are referring to the lightly saucy, very bouncy, chewy noodle that is tossed and stir-fried with vegetables.
Something else interesting to mention, is that Panda Express, one of the most popular fast food chains in the United States also refers to these soft (not crunchy) noodles as chow mein. Panda Express chow mein is stir-fried wheat noodles with onions, celery and cabbage.
What’s the Difference Between General Tso’s and Kung Pao Chicken?
General Tso’s Chicken and Kung Pao Chicken are two distinct Chinese American dishes, each with its own set of flavors and characteristics.
General Tso’s Chicken is known for its sweet and slightly spicy flavor profile.The dish is believed to have originated in Chinese-American cuisine, with various regional adaptations. The chicken is deep-fried until crispy and then coated in a tangy and sweet sauce made with ingredients like soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, and sometimes chili peppers. It’s often garnished with green onions or sesame seeds. While it can have a slight kick from chili peppers, General Tso’s Chicken is generally milder in terms of spice compared to Kung Pao Chicken.
Kung Pao Chicken is characterized by a spicier and more savory taste. It has roots in Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold and spicy flavors. The dish is named after Ding Baozhen, a Qing Dynasty official known as Kung Pao. It typically includes diced chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables (such as bell peppers and zucchini), and chili peppers. The sauce usually contains soy sauce, vinegar, and hoisin sauce, contributing to a bold and complex flavor.
What is the Perfect Order for Chinese Takeout?
Let’s be real, there is rarely something you can order from the local Chinese restaurant that is not going to be delicious or enjoyable. In our opinion, the perfect Chinese food order varies depending on a few things: what meal is it – lunch, dinner, dim sum, early bird special? Are there combos, lunch or dinner platters available? What type of Chinese food, Cantonese, Schezwan? What’s the local weather outside? Many American’s will argue against soup in the summer! (Not us!)
If you’re out with us, you can bet on seeing a few staples on the table. Definitely soup – wonton, egg drop or hot sour. If Cantonese wonton soup is available (with pork and shrimp) you can guarantee it. Roast pork lo mein, shrimp with lobster sauce, orange chicken, beef pan fried noodles, shredded pork with jalapeños, and house special fried rice. When it comes to dim sum, of course, shui mai, har how, BBQ pork buns, shrimp toast and stuffed eggplant. Don’t skip the dumplings! If you see soupy, delicious XLB (xiao long bao’s) pack your chopsticks and get over there now!
