【Learn Chinese】Cooking Vocabulary in Chinese

For anyone eager to delve into the world of Chinese cuisine, understanding the language of the kitchen is as crucial as the ingredients themselves.
Here's a concise guide to the most important Chinese vocabulary for cooking, complete with pinyin, to help you whip up some authentic dishes.

Cooking Techniques:
The heart of Chinese cooking lies in its techniques. '炒菜' (Chǎo cài) means stir-frying, a quick and high-heat method that preserves the flavors of the ingredients. For a gentler approach, '蒸' (Zhēng) for steaming is used to cook food with steam, keeping it tender and moist.

Essential Ingredients:
No Chinese dish is complete without the right ingredients. '面粉' (Miàn fěn), or flour, is a staple for many dishes and pastries. '鸡蛋' (Jī dàn), or eggs, are versatile and used in both sweet and savory recipes. '糖' (Táng) for sugar and '盐' (Yán) for salt are fundamental seasonings that balance the flavors in any dish. '酱油' (Jiàng yóu), or soy sauce, adds a rich umami flavor, while '醋' (Cù), or vinegar, provides a tangy kick.

Kitchen Utensils:
The right tools make all the difference. '炒锅' (Chǎo guō), a wok, is the quintessential pan for stir-frying due to its shape and heat distribution. '菜刀' (Cài dāo), a kitchen knife, is essential for precise cutting, and '筷子' (Kuài zi), or chopsticks, are not just for eating but also for stirring and mixing ingredients.

Measurements:
Precision is key in cooking and measurements crucial. '克' (Kè) for grams and '毫升' (Shēng shì) for milliliters are standard units, while '杯' (Bēi) and '勺' (Sháo) refer to cups and spoons, respectively, which are commonly used in recipes.

In conclusion, these key terms are your gateway to the rich and diverse world of Chinese cooking and baking. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned chef, incorporating these words into your culinary practice will not only enhance your skills but also deepen your appreciation for Chinese cuisine.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to cook up a storm with these essential Chinese culinary terms at your fingertips.