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From Beijing with love
This summer, it’s China’s turn to say ‘Ni hao ma’ to the famous Olympic torch. For two weeks, sports fans will flock to Beijing to see the world’s finest athletes in action. Of course, not everyone’s lucky enough to be there in person. With this in mind, settle in front of the TV and enjoy a taste of the Far East - minus the ten hour flight.
Out for a duck
Whether it’s London, New York, or Beijing, the famous roast duck is enjoyed all over the globe. Its succulent meat is traditionally carved into 120 pieces and served with tasty side dishes like shallot bars, thin strips of cucumber, and a dish of paste-like soy sauce.
Everything starts with a tea
Chinese green tea is a pure blend, made solely with the leaves from the Camellia Sinensis plant. Not only is it a tasty alternative to the usual black brew, but it’s healthier, too. Studies have shown that regular drinkers have a lower chance of heart disease and developing certain types of cancer. So stock up for a long and healthy future.
Hom is where the heart is
Not everyone’s blessed with the culinary skills of Ken Hom. But fear not, kitchen nightmares. His cookbooks are packed with simple Chinese dishes that’ll impress the fussiest of dinner guests. From shellfish soup to green chicken curry, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time.
Wok this way
If you’re going to cook like a pro, you’ll need the tools of the trade. Top of the list is a good wok. Originally from China, these stainless steel beauties are a dab hand for stir-frying vegetables and meat. They’re also great for steaming, deep-frying and stewing. You can even use them to make soup.
Rice wine is fine
No oriental meal’s complete without a glass of Sake. Whether you take it hot, cold, or served over ice, it’s an ideal accompaniment to deep-fried tempura and sushi. And due to the way it’s refined, you cam wave goodbye to that ‘morning after’ headache.
Not-so-dim sum
Since the days of the Sung Dynasty, the Chinese have been masters of the dumpling. Forget the suet-based British kind – these come in all manner of tastes and styles. Round or crescent-shaped. Pan-fried or boiled. Sweet or savoury. The choices are endless. They’re tricky to master, but definitely fun to make.
Sizzling summer
Before you get stuck into the Olympics – why not hold an oriental-themed barbecue? Marinade some pork ribs overnight, then toss them onto a sizzling grill. Serve with a shrimp salad, peppered with water chestnuts, spring onions and celery. And don’t forget the sake.
Warm and healthy
Next time you pour an ice cold beverage with your dinner – stop. The Chinese believe that sipping a hot drink aids the digestion process. The warm liquid breaks down fat content and even prevents heart attacks. Swap chilled drinks for tea or simply warm water.
