Best Chinese Food for Beginners in New York: Top Picks to Try
As a food enthusiast living in New York, I've always been surrounded by a diverse array of cuisines, but there’s something about Chinese food that stands out. From its rich flavors to its unique textures, Chinese food is a treat for the senses. If you’re new to Chinese cuisine and looking to start your culinary journey in New York, it can be a little overwhelming with so many options available. That’s exactly how I felt when I first ventured into the world of Chinese food, but over time, I’ve discovered some dishes that are perfect for beginners. These dishes are approachable, delicious, and will help you understand the different flavors that make Chinese cuisine so special. Let me take you through the best Chinese food for beginners in New York, whether you're dining in or ordering takeout!
1. General Tso’s Chicken: A Classic for Beginners
When I first tried Chinese food, one of the first dishes I encountered was General Tso’s chicken. It’s a classic American-Chinese dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. Its crispy chicken pieces, coated in a sticky sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and chili paste, are irresistible. This dish is widely popular in Chinese restaurants across New York, and I highly recommend it to anyone who’s just starting out.
Here’s why it’s a great choice for beginners: The flavors are familiar, the spice level is moderate, and the dish is easy to enjoy even if you’re not used to bold, unfamiliar ingredients. In New York, many Chinese restaurants serve an excellent version of General Tso’s chicken, often alongside steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables, making it a great first taste of Chinese cuisine.
2. Dumplings: A Must-Try for Any Beginner
Dumplings are another essential Chinese dish that every beginner should try. These bite-sized pockets of goodness are filled with a variety of ingredients like pork, shrimp, or vegetables, and they are either steamed, boiled, or fried. I remember my first experience with dumplings in New York—they were so flavorful and comforting. The soft, doughy exterior combined with the juicy filling is a winning combination, and they pair perfectly with a soy-based dipping sauce.
In New York, you can find dumplings almost everywhere, from casual takeout joints to high-end restaurants. They are often served as an appetizer or a main dish. If you’re new to Chinese food, I recommend starting with pork dumplings or veggie dumplings, as they have familiar flavors that are easy to enjoy.
3. Fried Rice: A Simple Yet Delicious Introduction
Fried rice is another staple of Chinese cuisine that’s incredibly easy to love, especially for beginners. This dish is made by stir-frying leftover rice with vegetables, eggs, and some form of protein, such as chicken, beef, or shrimp. The flavors are savory and satisfying, with a nice touch of saltiness from soy sauce and a hint of sweetness from the vegetables.
What I love about fried rice is its versatility. You can get it with whatever ingredients you prefer, and it's a great way to explore different protein options. Whether you go for classic chicken fried rice, shrimp fried rice, or even a veggie version, it's always a crowd-pleaser. It’s also a fantastic dish to order if you're new to Chinese food, as it’s simple but full of flavor. And in New York, you'll find many great places to try it, from fast-casual spots to more traditional restaurants.
4. Sweet and Sour Chicken: A Flavorful Introduction
Sweet and sour chicken is another popular dish that’s a fantastic introduction to Chinese food. This dish typically features crispy pieces of chicken coated in a bright, tangy sauce made from vinegar, sugar, and ketchup. The sweet and sour flavor combination is one of the most recognizable in Chinese-American cuisine, making it an easy choice for anyone who’s unfamiliar with the more complex tastes of traditional Chinese dishes.
When I first tried sweet and sour chicken in New York, I loved how the crispy texture of the chicken paired with the vibrant sauce. It’s a very approachable dish for beginners, especially if you like sweeter flavors with a hint of tanginess. Many Chinese restaurants in New York offer this dish, and it’s often served with a side of rice or vegetables to balance out the flavors.
5. Hot and Sour Soup: A Great Way to Start Your Meal
If you're looking for something more warming and flavorful, hot and sour soup is a fantastic choice. The soup has a perfect balance of heat from chili paste and a sour note from vinegar, creating a unique flavor profile. It’s typically made with mushrooms, tofu, bamboo shoots, and pork or chicken, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. The texture is slightly thick and comforting, and the soup is often garnished with green onions and sometimes a dash of sesame oil.
Hot and sour soup is one of the most beloved soups in Chinese cuisine, and it’s perfect for beginners because it offers a mild level of spice and sourness, making it approachable. In New York, you’ll find it served in almost every Chinese restaurant, and it’s an excellent appetizer to warm up your taste buds before diving into the main course.
6. Ma Po Tofu: For Beginners Who Like a Little Spice
For those who are looking to step outside the realm of Americanized Chinese food, I recommend trying Ma Po Tofu. This Sichuan dish is famous for its bold, spicy, and numbing flavors. The tofu is cooked in a flavorful sauce made from fermented bean paste, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns, giving it a unique, mouth-tingling taste. It’s served with rice and is perfect for anyone who enjoys spicy food.
I was a bit hesitant to try Ma Po Tofu at first, but once I took my first bite, I was hooked. The spice and numbing sensation from the Sichuan peppercorns may take some getting used to, but it’s a great dish to explore if you’re open to trying something more adventurous. In New York, there are plenty of restaurants that offer authentic Ma Po Tofu, so it’s a great way to experience a different regional flavor of China.
7. Char Siu (BBQ Pork): A Popular and Flavorful Dish
Char Siu, or Chinese BBQ pork, is a dish that combines sweet and savory flavors with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The pork is marinated in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and five-spice powder, then roasted to perfection. The result is a tender, slightly caramelized pork that’s served in thin slices.
Char Siu is one of my personal favorites, and it’s a great dish for beginners because the flavors are familiar, and the meat is easy to eat. Whether it’s served on its own, with rice, or as part of a larger meal, it’s always a hit. Many Chinese BBQ restaurants in New York serve char siu, so it’s a great dish to try if you're looking for something that feels both traditional and accessible.
8. Scallion Pancakes: A Crispy, Savory Treat
If you’re looking for something light and savory, scallion pancakes are a great choice. These crispy, flaky pancakes are made from dough that’s rolled out, brushed with oil and green onions, then pan-fried until golden brown. They’re served in large, round portions and cut into slices, making them perfect for sharing or enjoying as a snack.
I first tried scallion pancakes at a dim sum restaurant in New York, and they quickly became one of my favorite appetizers. The outside is perfectly crisp, while the inside is soft and chewy. The burst of fresh scallions adds a delightful flavor that pairs perfectly with soy sauce or chili oil for dipping. Scallion pancakes are a great option for beginners because they’re simple, savory, and easy to enjoy.
