Comfort Food

Comfort Food

25 Tasty Chinese Takeout Dishes You Can Master at Home

Posted by Food Network Canada Editors. Last updated on February 10, 2021 by Leslie Wu

Put down the phone and recycle that takeout menu, because these traditional Chinese food recipes are easier and more cost-effective to make than you might think. From bao buns and congee to dumplings and kung pao chicken, there's something for everyone in this scrumptious collection of simple Chinese food takeout recipes.

  • BBQ Pork Bao Buns
     
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    BBQ Pork Bao Buns

    <p>The sweet and slightly charred coating on a well-made char siu (try making your own with this <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chinese-roast-pork/9815/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">easy roast pork recipe</a>) makes an excellent counterpoint to the soft fluffiness of the steamed bun wrapper. A dim sum staple, BBQ pork buns can be enjoyed at any time of day — no delivery app required.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/bbq-pork-bao-buns/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">BBQ Pork Bao Buns</a></strong></p
  • Hot and Sour Soup
     
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    Hot and Sour Soup

    <p>The gloopy consistency of some takeout hot and sour soup (especially if it sits too long) will have you reaching for this recipe that combines chili heat and an undertone of vinegary goodness. The wood ear mushrooms are well worth sourcing and available at many Asian supermarkets.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/easy-hot-and-sour-soup-with-shanghai-noodles-33708/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Easy Hot and Sour Soup With Shanghai Noodles</a></strong></p>
  • Congee
     
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    Congee

    <p>There are few things as warming and comforting on a winter night than congee — a savoury rice porridge that can serve as blank canvas for a variety of toppings including chopped peanuts, coriander or green onions. Making congee at home is almost easier than ordering in, but just remember to plan ahead to allow time for it to simmer away on the stovetop.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/global-eats/blog/how-to-make-chinese-congee/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Chinese Congee</a></strong></p>
  • Chinese Coconut Buns
     
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    Chinese Coconut Buns

    <p>A popular item at Chinese bakeries, these coconut buns combine pillowy dough with a dense and crunchy super-sweet coconut filling. Enjoy them as an afternoon snack, <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/4-ingredient-dessert-recipes/#!Three-Ingredient-Cookies" rel="noopener" target="_blank">simple dessert</a> or decadent breakfast with a cup of tea.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/chinese-coconut-buns/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Chinese Coconut Buns</a></strong></p>
  • Chinese Scallion Pancakes
     
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    Chinese Scallion Pancakes

    <p>Rolling the scallion filling right into the dough makes for a fun activity with the family — and the result is worth the effort. Flaky layers of pastry encase savoury bits of scallions and are enhanced by a simple dipping sauce of Chinkiang black vinegar.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/chinese-scallion-pancakes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Chinese Scallion Pancakes</a></strong></p>
  • Chinese Ginger Soy Sea Bass
     
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    Chinese Ginger Soy Sea Bass

    <p>For a dish that’s sophisticated, but still simple, this steamed sea bass is a traditional way to let the fish be the star of the plate. Fragrant ginger and green onions, combined with soy and hot oil, come together in a sauce that’s perfect for ladling over plain white rice. It's also one of our favourite <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/chinese-new-year/photos/popular-chinese-lunar-new-year-recipes/#!2-hot-sour-soup" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Chinese Lunar New Year recipes</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/made-easy-moms-steamed-chinese-ginger-soy-sea-bass-33084/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Chinese Ginger Soy Sea Bass</a></strong></p>
  • Chinese Stir-Fried Eggplant
     
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    Chinese Stir-Fried Eggplant

    <p>Why wait for delivery when this stir-fried eggplant is just a toss in the pan from dinnertime? Dark soy, ginger and a little bit of sugar reduce to a sticky sweet glaze — and optional chilis bring an undertone of fiery heat.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/easy-chinese-stir-fried-eggplant/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Chinese Stir-Fried Eggplant</a></strong></p>
  • Chicken Pot Stickers With Dipping Sauce
     
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    Chicken Pot Stickers With Dipping Sauce

    <p>While dumplings are popular during Chinese New Year, these chicken pot stickers are perfect any time of year. The filling is made with seasoned ground chicken and freshly grated <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/30-healing-ginger-recipes-for-cold-and-flu-season/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ginger</a>, which is then folded in a simple dough.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-pot-stickers-with-dipping-sauce-/22074/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Molly Yeh's Chicken Pot Stickers With Dipping Sauce</strong></a></p>
  • Shortcut Dan-Dan Noodles
     
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    Shortcut Dan-Dan Noodles

    <p> A dinner main with only five ingredients? Count us in! This quick version of the Chinese classic elevates instant ramen noodles to the next level. Pickles stand in for more traditional fermented greens while the brine replaces the traditional addition of sugar. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/back-to-school/photos/ramen-noodle-recipe-hacks/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">genius ways to hack a pack of ramen noodles</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/shortcut-dan-dan-noodles/23127/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Shortcut Dan-Dan Noodles</a></strong> </p>
  • Keto Kung Pao Chicken
     
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    Keto Kung Pao Chicken

    <p> Whether you follow the <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/keto-chicken-dinner-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">keto</a> plan or not, everyone will enjoy a helping of this hearty chicken dish that is brimming with asparagus, bell peppers, garlic, peanuts and toasted sesame seeds. It's better than takeout (we promise!) and you won’t need to invest in a wok if you don't have one — we’ve made this delicious meal in a large cast-iron pan. Find more of our <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/best-keto-recipes-for-beginners/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">best keto recipes for beginners that taste heavenly</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/keto-kung-pao-chicken-recipe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Keto Kung Pao Chicken</a></strong> </p>
  • Best-Ever Instant Pot Crispy Rice
     
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    Best-Ever Instant Pot Crispy Rice

    <p> What’s better than a bowl of flawlessly cooked rice? Absolutely nothing! This tender, yet fluffy Instant Pot variation will pair beautifully with any of your other takeout-inspired dinner mains. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/healthy-instant-pot-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">healthy Instant Pot recipes you'll wish you'd discovered sooner</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/instant-pot-sticky-rice/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Best-Ever Instant Pot Crispy Rice</a></strong> </p>
  • Sichuan-Style Dumplings With Peanut Dipping Sauce
     
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    Sichuan-Style Dumplings With Peanut Dipping Sauce

    <p>The possibilities are endless when making dumplings. You can fill the wrappers with almost anything and serve them with an array of dipping sauces. This recipe calls for a shiitake mushroom and ground pork filling — and pairs the cooked dumplings with a spicy peanut sauce.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sichuan-style-dumplings-with-peanut-dipping-sauce/14064/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Sichuan-Style Dumplings With Peanut Dipping Sauce</strong></a></p>
  • Spring Rolls
     
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    Spring Rolls

    <p>Filled with a mixture of ground pork, garlic, ginger, cabbage, carrots, green onions and eggs cooked in soy sauce, these crispy spring rolls will disappear fast, so best make a double batch.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spring-rolls/17431/" target="_blank"><strong>Spring Rolls</strong></a></p>
  • Perfect Chinese Hot Pot
     
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    Perfect Chinese Hot Pot

    <p> If you're not up for making the trek to your favourite hot pot restaurant, the good news is that you can make this traditional Chinese recipe from the comfort of your own home. Create a personalized dipping sauce, dunk some veggies, meat or fish into the broth and scoop it out into your bowl for a fun and engaging meal the whole family will love. It involves a little more prep than the average takeout-inspired dish, but it's totally worth it. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/this-is-how-to-make-the-perfect-chinese-hot-pot-at-home/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Perfect Chinese Hot Pot</a></strong> </p>
  • Slow-Cooker Chicken Wings With Chinese BBQ Sauce
     
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    Slow-Cooker Chicken Wings With Chinese BBQ Sauce

    <p> If you've got some extra time on your hands this week, opt for these scrumptious tender <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/photos/most-amazing/chicken-wing-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">chicken wings</a> that boast a sticky-sweet Chinese-style BBQ sauce that you'll want to introduce into regular rotation. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-chicken-wings/23008/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Slow-Cooker Chicken Wings With Chinese BBQ Sauce</a></strong> </p>
  • Chicken Fried Rice Balls
     
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    Chicken Fried Rice Balls

    <p>Like <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/-stuffed-arancini-/17554/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">arancini</a>, these fried rice balls are best when made with day-old rice or — even easier — leftover takeout. No matter how they start, guests will love to be greeted with their buffet favourites in bite-sized form.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/chicken-fries-rice-balls/19743/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Chicken Fried Rice Balls</a></strong></p>
  • Pork Wonton Soup
     
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    Pork Wonton Soup

    <p>This classic Chinese comfort food is nourishing, tasty and simple to make. Green onions add crunch to the shrimp and pork dumplings, which are served in a delicious chicken broth.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pork-wonton-soup/15272/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Pork Wonton Soup</strong></a></p>
  • Chinese-Takeout Skewers
     
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    Chinese-Takeout Skewers

    <p>Not only is this a takeout-style dish that you can make at home, it's completely portable! Thread chunks of pork tenderloin on a skewer along with water chestnut, red pepper, snow peas, baby corn and orange before grilling to caramelized perfection. Ideal for a fast family meal or a potluck. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chinese-takeout-skewers/20000/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Chinese-Takeout Skewers</strong></a></p>
  • Lo Mein Summer Rolls
     
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    Lo Mein Summer Rolls

    <p>While crispy spring rolls are a popular Chinese takeout item, cool summer-inspired rolls are a great way to shake up the menu. This recipe takes seasoned ramen noodles, carrot and bell peppers — and bundles them together in rice paper wrappers. If you've got leftover noodles, consider these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/easiest-ramen-noodle-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">easy ramen recipes to make when you're in a pinch</a>. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lo-mein-summer-rolls/19744/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Lo Mein Summer Rolls</strong></a></p>
  • Sweet and Sour Tofu Dumplings
     
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    Sweet and Sour Tofu Dumplings

    <p>These tasty dumplings are made with crumbled tofu and a homemade sweet and sour sauce folded in wonton wrappers. Prepare them in a steamer basket and serve with more sweet and sour sauce for dipping.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sweet-and-sour-tofu-dumplings/19746/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Sweet and Sour Tofu Dumplings</strong></a></p>
  • Pork and Pineapple Fried Rice
     
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    Pork and Pineapple Fried Rice

    <p>Fried rice is the ultimate meal for combining your leftovers. Add some brightness to the rest of your pulled pork with this pineapple fried rice!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pork-and-pineapple-fried-rice/14335/"><strong>Pork and Pineapple Fried Rice</strong></a></p>
  • Scallion Pancakes With Maple Syrup Slaw (Cong You Bing)
     
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    Scallion Pancakes With Maple Syrup Slaw (Cong You Bing)

    <p>Scallion pancakes AKA cong you bing are pan-fried, savoury flatbreads filled with minced green onion. They're made with a dough instead of a batter, giving it a more chewy texture. Cut them into wedges and top them with a sweet slaw.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/scallion-pancakes-with-maple-syrup-slaw/22077/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Molly Yeh's Scallion Pancakes With Maple Syrup Slaw</strong></a></p>
  • Crispy Pork Wontons With Chili Oil Sauce
     
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    Crispy Pork Wontons With Chili Oil Sauce

    <p>These little pouches of savoury pork and shrimp dumplings paired with a chili oil sauce for dipping will please any lover of Chinese food.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/crispy-pork-wontons-with-chili-oil-sauce/15271/" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Crispy Pork Wontons With Chili Oil Sauce</strong></a></p>
  • Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dessert Wontons
     
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    Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dessert Wontons

    <p>This Canadianized mashup of sweet caramel cheesecake wontons is kept from being excessively sweet by the tartness of Granny Smith apples and the deep-fried flavours of the wrapper. A sesame or ginger flavoured iced cream would complete the marriage of ingredients and backgrounds.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/dessert-mashup-caramel-apple-cheesecake-dessert-wontons/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dessert Wontons</a></strong><p>
  • Fortune Cookies
     
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    Fortune Cookies

    <p>For some people, both adults and kids alike, one of the joys of North American Chinese takeout is the addition of crunchy fortune cookies. Make your own at home and customize the fortunes to your own family for some instant fun.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/molly-yehs-fortune-cookies/23378/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Molly Yeh’s Fortune Cookies</a></strong></p>
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