Kitchens around the world
Cantonese Recipes
Cantonese cooking is light, fresh and gentle. Find steamed fish, simple stir-fries, soups, congee and more.
About Cantonese
Cantonese food is about fresh ingredients and clean, mild flavor. Cooks try not to hide the main ingredient. Sauces are used lightly, and dishes often taste savory with a touch of sweetness.
Common ingredients include ginger, scallions, soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice wine and fresh vegetables. Steaming, quick stir-frying, roasting and slow-simmered soups are popular. Dim sum, like dumplings and buns, comes from this tradition too. Unlike Sichuan cooking, which leans on chili and strong seasoning, Cantonese dishes are softer and more delicate.
Questions folks ask
What is Cantonese food known for?
It is known for fresh ingredients, light sauces and steaming. Dim sum is one of its most loved styles.
Is Cantonese food spicy?
Usually not. The flavors are mild and savory, so it is a good choice for those who like less heat.
What is congee?
Congee is a soft rice porridge cooked in plenty of water or broth. People often top it with ginger, scallions or other savory bits.
Kitchen tips
- Start with the freshest fish and vegetables you can find.
- Steam fish just until it flakes, then pour hot oil and soy sauce over the top.
- Slice ginger and scallions thin for a clean, bright flavor.
- Use oyster sauce a little at a time. It is rich and salty.
- Cook greens briefly so they stay bright and crisp.