Do you prefer to dine out at Chinese restaurants or do you think the best Chinese food in Denver comes from your own kitchen? Lots of people prefer to cook at home because it is affordable and you can cook according to your personal tastes. If you don’t cook already cook Chinese food yourself, it might seem a little overwhelming if you are not familiar with many of the ingredients. Here’s a look at some basic pantry items that are commonly used in making the best Chinese food in Denver, or at home.
Dark Soy Sauce – This one is fermented longer than the standard soy sauce. The flavor is a bit sweeter and less salty.
Fresh Ginger – A staple of Chinese cuisine, it provides flavor, aroma and a little kick.
Fermented Black Beans – Soy beans that are fermented with spices and salt. They add a unique savory and salty flavor to sauces.
Oyster Sauce – This thick, dark sauce is made with oyster extracts and spices. It adds a depth of flavor to just about anything.
Rice Wine – Often used in marinades and sauces, it has a clean, light flavor. There is also Shaoxing wine, which is a darker version with a little stronger, more complex flavor. Be advised, the rice cooking wines you find at the Asian market are not for drinking. Those made for sipping are much sweeter.
Duo Jiao Sauce (chili sauce) – Chopped red chilies that are pickled in a vinegar solution that provide heat and zing to dishes.
Sichuan Peppercorn – It isn’t actually a peppercorn at all but a berry from the prickly ash tree. It leaves a slight numbing sensation on the tongue and adds heat and flavor.