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Planning a Dinner

How to plan a Chinese dinner for family, or entertaining friends.

Mixing Western and Chinese dishes is perfectly acceptable. Don’t forget the vegetables! We have delicious recipes for common vegetables including cucumber, carrot, white mushroom, potato and broccoli. A quick sautee of carrots, mushrooms, and broccoli can add a delicious, healthy side dish to any meal in a few minutes.

Generally a Chinese meal includes four dishes, including meat, poultry, seafood, and vegetables, plus rice and soup.

Not everything must be stir-fried. Dishes that involve simmering or braising should also be included, allowing you to complete several dishes simultaneously. Strive for contrast and balance in flavors, textures, and colors. Mild or delicate flavored dishes should balance spicy dishes. Stir-fried dishes can be balanced with steamed or simmered dishes. Etc.