Discover the Best Must-Try Chinese Breakfast Dishes
Breakfast is considered one of the most important meals of the day, and in China, it’s no different. While Western breakfasts are often quick and easy, like a cup of coffee and a croissant, Chinese breakfasts are rich, varied, and full of flavors. From savory to sweet, the Chinese breakfast offers a wide range of options that can satisfy every palate. If you're looking to experience an authentic Chinese breakfast, here’s a list of must-try dishes that will take you on a culinary journey across China.
1. Congee (粥)
One of the most traditional and beloved Chinese breakfast dishes is congee, a savory or sweet rice porridge that can be customized with various toppings. Congee is comfort food at its finest. It is particularly popular in southern China and is served hot, especially during the colder months. You can find it in many different variations: from a simple, plain version with just a bit of salt to a rich and flavorful concoction with pickled vegetables, century eggs, or shredded chicken.
In cities like Guangzhou and Hong Kong, congee is often accompanied by youtiao (fried dough sticks), which adds a crunchy texture to the dish. For those who prefer a sweet breakfast, congee can also be made with sugar and paired with fruits like mango or red bean paste.
2. Dim Sum (点心)
Dim sum is a beloved breakfast tradition in China, particularly in Hong Kong and Guangdong province. It consists of small, bite-sized portions of food, typically served in bamboo steamers or on small plates. Dim sum is often enjoyed with tea in a practice known as "yum cha" (literally "drink tea").
The dim sum options are endless: from dumplings stuffed with shrimp or pork to buns filled with sweet or savory fillings. A few popular choices include siu mai (steamed pork dumplings), har gow (shrimp dumplings), char siu bao (barbecue pork buns), and egg tarts. Many dim sum dishes are lightly seasoned, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through. The variety and the opportunity to sample many different items make dim sum a fun and satisfying breakfast choice.
3. Jiaozi (饺子) – Dumplings
Jiaozi, or dumplings, are another iconic Chinese dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast. While dumplings are often associated with lunch or dinner, many Chinese people eat them for breakfast as well. These small, crescent-shaped parcels of dough are typically filled with pork, beef, chicken, or vegetables, and can be either steamed, boiled, or pan-fried. Dumplings are often served with a soy-based dipping sauce and sometimes a bit of vinegar to enhance their flavor.
What makes jiaozi unique is its cultural significance. It’s believed that eating dumplings at the start of the year will bring good luck and prosperity, especially during Chinese New Year. But even outside of the holiday season, jiaozi is a favorite breakfast dish in northern China, where people are known for their love of hearty, filling meals.
4. Baozi (包子) – Steamed Buns
Baozi are fluffy, steamed buns filled with various ingredients, ranging from pork to vegetables. These buns are a popular breakfast choice for those who are looking for something quick yet satisfying. In cities across China, you’ll find street vendors selling fresh baozi in the early morning hours, often with long lines of people waiting to grab a warm breakfast on the go.
Some of the most popular baozi fillings include savory options like minced pork with a touch of ginger and soy sauce, and sweet options like red bean paste or lotus seed paste. The soft, doughy texture of the bun paired with a savory or sweet filling makes baozi a versatile and delicious breakfast treat.
5. Soy Milk and Youtiao (豆浆油条)
Known as the perfect pairing for an authentic Chinese breakfast, soy milk and youtiao is a traditional and beloved breakfast combination. Soy milk (豆浆) is made from soybeans and is a nutritious, protein-packed drink that is often served sweetened or unsweetened, depending on personal preference. Youtiao (油条) are long, deep-fried dough sticks that are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.
When enjoyed together, the warm soy milk and crispy youtiao create a balanced contrast in textures and flavors. This breakfast is widely popular in cities like Beijing and Shanghai, and it’s often consumed as a quick, on-the-go meal before starting the day.
6. Scallion Pancakes (葱油饼)
Scallion pancakes, or cong you bing, are savory, crispy flatbreads made with dough and filled with chopped scallions (green onions). The dough is pan-fried until golden and crispy, creating a crunchy exterior while the inside remains soft and chewy. These pancakes are usually served with a soy-based dipping sauce for added flavor.
Scallion pancakes are a popular street food and can often be found at breakfast stalls across China. They're quick to prepare, delicious, and perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying breakfast with a bit of savory goodness. Many people love to enjoy them with a cup of hot tea to balance out the rich flavors of the pancake.
7. Tea Eggs (茶叶蛋)
Tea eggs are a classic Chinese snack and a great choice for breakfast. These eggs are boiled, cracked open, and then simmered in a fragrant mixture of tea leaves, soy sauce, and various spices, such as cinnamon and star anise. The result is an egg with a marbled pattern on the shell and a savory, aromatic flavor.
Tea eggs are commonly sold by street vendors and are often eaten as a quick and portable breakfast option. They are especially popular in Taiwan, where they are enjoyed alongside other breakfast foods. The rich, umami flavor of the eggs makes them a perfect complement to a hot cup of soy milk or a bowl of congee.
8. Noodles (面条)
While noodles are typically associated with lunch or dinner in China, they can also be a popular breakfast choice, especially in the northern regions. Noodle dishes vary from region to region, but the most common options include hot, savory broths with noodles made from wheat or rice flour. Popular breakfast noodle options include egg noodles with vegetables, noodle soup with beef or chicken, and fried noodles served with scrambled eggs and stir-fried vegetables.
The versatility of noodles makes them an ideal breakfast option for those who enjoy something hearty and filling. In cities like Xi'an, you can find a rich, spicy noodle soup, while in Chengdu, the spicy, sour flavors of Sichuan noodles might be your go-to choice to start the day.
9. Chinese Pancakes (煎饼果子)
Chinese pancakes, or jianbing guozi, are savory crepes that are often filled with ingredients like egg, scallions, cilantro, pickles, and a crispy fried dough cracker. This street food breakfast dish is especially popular in northern China and has gained international attention for its unique combination of textures and flavors.
The pancake is typically spread with a thin layer of hoisin sauce and then filled with a variety of savory fillings before being folded into a neat package. The crispy crunch from the fried dough cracker, combined with the soft pancake and the savory fillings, creates a mouthwatering breakfast option that can be enjoyed on the go.
10. Zongzi (粽子)
Zongzi is a traditional rice dumpling that is commonly enjoyed for breakfast, especially during the Dragon Boat Festival. These dumplings are made by wrapping glutinous rice and various fillings, such as pork, red bean paste, or salted egg yolk, in bamboo leaves. The dumplings are then steamed to create a chewy, aromatic dish.
While zongzi is most famous during the Dragon Boat Festival, you can find them year-round in Chinese bakeries and restaurants. They are a great breakfast option for those who enjoy a hearty, flavorful start to their day.
Whether you prefer something savory, sweet, or a combination of both, Chinese breakfast dishes offer something for everyone. The next time you’re looking for a new breakfast experience, try one of these dishes and immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine!
