Craving Chinese takeout but looking to recreate your favorites at home? Whether you’re a fan of authentic dishes or those with a creative, Westernized twist, this list of 62 recipes offers plenty of inspiration. With a growing appreciation for diverse cuisines in South Africa, Chinese food has earned a beloved spot in our hearts (and stomachs). From classics like fried rice and dumplings to crowd-pleasers like bang bang shrimp and orange chicken, you’ll find something for every occasion.
Let’s explore these recipes, tailored for the South African palate. We’ve included tips on local ingredient swaps, so you won’t have to search far and wide to bring these dishes to life in your kitchen.
The Must-Try Classics
1. Orange Chicken
This tangy, sweet, and crunchy dish is a Chinese-American favorite. Instead of deep frying, this version uses pan frying, keeping things lighter without sacrificing that signature crunch. Don’t have orange zest? South Africa’s Valencia oranges work perfectly here.
2. Fried Rice
A weeknight hero! All you need is leftover rice, a few veggies (think peas and carrots), soy sauce, and eggs. Add boerewors chunks for a local twist—trust us, it’s a game-changer.
3. Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts
A veggie-forward take on the popular Kung Pao Chicken, this recipe is fiery, nutty, and just as satisfying. South Africans who love chili bites will enjoy the spice kick.
Appetizers to Start Your Feast
4. Scallion Pancakes
Crispy and flaky, these are a delicious addition to any meal. Use spring onions, widely available at local markets, and pair them with a soy dipping sauce for ultimate enjoyment.
5. Soup Dumplings
A comforting starter, these juicy dumplings are filled with pork and a broth that melts as you steam them. Don’t have pork broth? Substitute with a rich beef stock available at your local grocer.
6. Egg Roll Bowls
Skip the frying and deconstruct the classic egg roll into a healthier bowl option. This recipe is packed with ground pork, cabbage, and carrots—easy to find in any South African supermarket.
Mains That Wow
7. Beef & Broccoli Noodles
This quick stir-fry is a complete meal, featuring tender beef, crisp broccoli, and rice noodles. Swap flank steak with biltong slices for a uniquely South African twist.
8. Sesame Tofu & Broccoli
Even meat lovers will enjoy this vegetarian favorite. Bake tofu until crispy, then coat it in a savory-sweet sauce. Pair with fluffy jasmine rice or South Africa’s favorite: pap.
9. Black Pepper Chicken
The secret to juicy chicken? Velveting! This technique involves marinating the meat in a cornstarch slurry. South African green peppers and onions bring vibrant flavor to this dish.
For the Adventurous Eater
10. Sichuan Beef
Love bold flavors? Sichuan peppercorns create a unique numbing sensation paired with fiery chilies. If you can’t find Sichuan peppercorns, crushed peri-peri chili makes a great substitute.
11. Chili Oil Smashed Cucumbers
This refreshing side dish features smashed cucumbers tossed in spicy, garlicky chili oil. South African mini cucumbers work wonderfully for this dish.
12. Fortune Cookies
While fortune cookies aren’t traditionally Chinese, they’re fun to make and personalize. Write your own fortunes in English, isiZulu, or Afrikaans for a local twist!
Sweet Endings and Snacks
13. Bang Bang Shrimp
Coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, these crispy shrimp bites are perfect for sharing. Use local tiger prawns for the freshest results.
14. Shrimp Toast
This early fusion dish combines Chinese shrimp paste with Western bread, fried to crispy perfection. South Africans can use sliced white bread or even mosbolletjies for a softer texture.
15. Sesame Cookies
End your meal with these nutty, crisp cookies. Black sesame seeds, if unavailable, can be swapped with toasted sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
South African Tips for Chinese Cooking
- Ingredient Swaps:
- Soy sauce is widely available, but for a budget-friendly option, try replacing it with Worcestershire sauce in small quantities.
- Cornstarch (maizena) is your best friend for sauces and crispy coatings.
- Local Adaptations:
- Use South African staples like mielies (corn) or gem squash to add a familiar touch to stir-fries.
- Pap makes an excellent side for saucy dishes like Mongolian beef.
- Fresh Produce:
- Visit local farmers’ markets to stock up on fresh veggies like bok choy, spring onions, and garlic for that authentic touch.
- Spices and Heat:
- Peri-peri and chakalaka lovers, don’t hold back—add your favorite spices to elevate the heat level.
Cooking these recipes at home is not only budget-friendly but also a way to explore new flavors with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, these dishes will transport you to a world of bold, irresistible flavors—all while staying true to your South African roots.
