Essential Chinese Condiments

Ready to move beyond stir-fried vegetables and soy sauce? Here’s a way to create a great Chinese meal with a minimum of complexity. The key is keeping two condiments on hand: hoisin sauce, which is available in any major grocery store, and spicy chili crisp, which can be found as a staple in oriental shops. Hoisin adds savory body to a dish, and spicy chili sauce provides the tasty kick.

I like to use the skinny pork chops that wouldn’t made it five minutes on a grill.  I cut 6-8 of them into one-inch cubes, and brown them in peanut oil on high heat in a pan (canola oil works just fine). Turn the heat to low, and add a 7 oz. jar of hoisin sauce and a rounded teaspoon of chili sauce. Let it simmer for ten minutes, and then get creative. Add a handful of chopped onion, maybe a chopped red pepper. Maybe fresh parsley – anything that adds flavor and color. Spoon this deliciousness over rice or oriental noodles. It’s a winner!Image

One Response to “Essential Chinese Condiments”

  1. Havana G's avatar
    Havana G Says:

    I have wanted to tackle Asian cooking for some time now, but admittedly, find it intimidating. This seems like an easy transition from my basic no-fail stir fry. I have a feeling it will turn out great given the balance of heat and flavor of your recommended ingredients! Thanks for sharing! Excited to “wok” it out! (sorry…couldn’t resist).

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