Fundamentals

Essential ingredient for many classic Chinese dishes, homemade red bean paste only requires 3 simple steps. It tastes much better than commercial versions.

How to make red bean paste (红豆沙)

Pungent, aromatic, earthy and salty, fermented black beans provide unique and complex flavours to many Chinese dishes.

Fermented black beans (豆豉)

Chinese sesame paste is a popular condiment used in noodles, salad, hot-pot dipping sauce, etc. It can be substituted in three ways.

Chinese sesame paste & 3 substitute ideas (芝麻酱)

As important as soy sauce, Chinese rice vinegar is a must-have for those keen to explore Chinese cuisine in their own kitchens.

Chinese rice vinegar (米醋)

Rock sugar is refined, crystalized sugar commonly used in Chinese kitchen to add shine to braised dishes or to sweeten desserts.

Rock sugar (冰糖)

Shaoxing rice wine is commonly used in Chinese cuisine. It's essential for preparing meat or fish, either in stir-fry or in braising dishes.

Shaoxing rice wine (绍兴酒)

Sichuan peppercorn is one of the most important spices used in the Chinese kitchen. It has an unusual aroma and creates a unique sensation in your mouth.

Sichuan peppercorn (花椒) & how to grind it

Soy sauce (酱油): light or dark?

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