Top Chinese Dishes to Try: A Beginner's Guide to Chinese Cuisine

Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse, which makes it exciting for both beginners and experienced food lovers. If you're visiting a Chinese restaurant for the first time, the number of choices on the menu can sometimes feel overwhelming.

The good news is that there are plenty of classic dishes that can help you start your journey into Chinese food.

1. Chow Mein

Chow Mein is one of the most recognizable Chinese noodle dishes. It typically features stir-fried noodles combined with vegetables, meat, or seafood.

The restaurant's Chow Mein guide explains more about this popular dish and its place in Chinese cuisine.

2. Dim Sum

Dim Sum is ideal for people who enjoy variety. Instead of one large entrée, Dim Sum often includes small portions that allow diners to experience several flavors.

Learn more with the restaurant's Ultimate Guide to Chinese Dim Sum.

3. Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu is associated with Sichuan cuisine and is known for bold flavors and a spicy, aromatic character.

It is a great choice for people who enjoy dishes with heat and complexity. Oriental Triangle also has a Mapo Tofu article exploring the dish.

4. Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken combines chicken with vegetables, peanuts, and a flavorful sauce. It has become one of the best-known Chinese dishes internationally.

The restaurant's Kung Pao Chicken guide is another useful introduction.

5. Peking Duck

Peking Duck is famous for its crispy skin, tender meat, and traditional accompaniments.

For anyone interested in the history and preparation of this classic dish, Oriental Triangle has published a guide to Peking Duck.

6. Seafood Dishes

If you prefer seafood, Chinese cuisine offers plenty of options. Shrimp, scallops, crawfish, and vegetables can be combined into flavorful stir-fries and sizzling dishes.

The restaurant's Seafood Festival article explores a seafood combination featuring shrimp, scallops, crawfish, imitation crabmeat, and Chinese vegetables. Oriental Triangle Restaurant

Start Your Chinese Food Journey

The best way to discover Chinese cuisine is to try different dishes and flavors. Start with familiar favorites and gradually explore new ingredients, cooking styles, and regional traditions.

If you're in Jefferson, Louisiana, Oriental Triangle Restaurant & Lounge provides an opportunity to explore Chinese-inspired food while learning about the culture and traditions behind different dishes.