Chinese Foods That Start With C

Chinese foods are famous for their unique flavor profile and diverse range of ingredients. The country’s rich history and cultural diversity reflects in its gastronomic offerings. From stir-fries to noodles, from hot pots to dumplings, Chinese cuisine is an explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

In this article, we’ll be focusing on Chinese foods beginning with C. You might be wondering why C, and not any other letter? Well, here’s the answer: the letter C holds some of China’s most exciting dishes that must be experienced. From classics to lesser-known dishes, we’ll be highlighting some of China’s finest C foods.

So buckle up and get ready to discover some of the most mouth-watering Chinese dishes you didn’t know existed! From Chongqing chicken to Cha shao bao, our list has got you covered. So let’s dive into the fascinating world of Chinese cuisine and explore the best Chinese foods that start with C!

87 Chinese foods that start with C

Cake With Bean Paste Filling

This delicious cake is a classic Chinese dessert that is rich in flavor and texture. Made with a soft, fluffy cake that is filled with sweet and creamy bean paste, this dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The cake is usually steamed or baked to perfection, creating a light and airy texture that melts in your mouth. The bean paste filling is made with a variety of beans, including red bean, mung bean, or black bean, and is sweetened with sugar or honey to create a luscious and decadent flavor. This cake is perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or as a sweet treat after a meal.

Candied Fruit

Candied fruit is a popular Chinese snack that is enjoyed year-round but is especially popular during Chinese New Year festivities. Typically made from citrus fruits, the fruit is boiled in a simple syrup made from sugar and water until the fruit is tender and has absorbed the sweetness of the syrup. The resulting candied fruit is then usually coated in sugar or honey and allowed to dry, creating a sticky and sweet treat that is both delicious and nutritious. Candied fruit can be made with a variety of fruits including orange, grapefruit, lemon, or lime.

Cantonese Seafood Soup

This soup is a delicious and hearty dish that is full of flavor and nutrition. Made with a variety of fresh seafood including shrimp, squid, and fish, this hearty soup is seasoned with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce to create a savory and satisfying flavor. The soup is often served with noodles, rice, or crusty bread, making it a full meal in itself. Cantonese seafood soup is a popular dish in China and is also enjoyed in other parts of the world.

Cantonese Style Fried Rice

Cantonese-style fried rice is a classic dish that is full of flavor and texture. Made with jasmine rice, egg, and a variety of vegetables such as peas, carrots, and onions, this dish is seasoned with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other spices to create a savory and satisfying flavor. The dish can be enjoyed on its own or as a delicious side dish alongside other Chinese favorites.

Caramelized Sweet Potato

This Chinese dessert is a delicious and sweet treat that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Made with sweet potato, the dessert is boiled in water until cooked through, then coated in a sweet syrup made from sugar and water and caramelized to perfection. The result is a crispy and chewy texture that is rich in flavor and aroma. This dessert can be enjoyed as a snack or as a sweet ending to a meal.

Carp Soup

Carp soup is a traditional Chinese soup that is full of flavor and nutrition. Made with fresh carp, the soup is seasoned with a variety of spices including garlic, ginger, and soy sauce and is simmered slowly to let the flavors meld together. The soup is often served with rice, noodles, or crusty bread, making it a filling meal in itself. Carp soup is a popular dish in China and is also enjoyed by people around the world.

Cart Noodle

Cart noodle is a delicious and popular dish in Hong Kong that is made with a variety of ingredients such as noodles, meat, fish balls, and vegetables. The dish is often served in small compartments, allowing diners to mix and match different ingredients to create their own unique flavor combinations. Seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and other spices, this dish is a delicious and filling meal that is perfect for any time of the day.

Cat’s Ear

Cat’s ear is a Chinese noodle dish that is made with flour, water, and salt. The noodles are rolled into thin strips and then fried or boiled to create a chewy and delicious texture. The dish is often served with a spicy and flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar, creating a unique and satisfying flavor. This dish is popular in different parts of China, especially in Sichuan Province.

Caterpillar Fungus Duck

Caterpillar fungus duck is a unique and flavorful dish that is popular in Chinese cuisine. The dish is made by stuffing a duck with the caterpillar fungus, a rare and expensive ingredient prized for its unique flavor and health benefits. The duck is then roasted to perfection, creating a crispy skin and tender meat that is infused with the rich flavor of the fungus. This dish is popular during special occasions and is often presented as a show-stopping centerpiece.

Catfish With Eggplant

This dish is a delicious and hearty Chinese meal that is packed with flavor and nutrition. Made with fresh catfish and eggplants, the dish is often seasoned with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce to create a savory and satisfying flavor. This dish is often served with rice or noodles and can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish alongside other Chinese favorites.

Century Egg

Century egg is a delicacy in Chinese cuisine that is made by preserving duck or chicken eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, and lime for several weeks or months. The egg white becomes a dark jelly-like substance, while the yolk becomes a creamy and savory treat that is rich in flavor and aroma. This dish is often served with porridge or congee and can also be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

Cha Shao Sauce

Cha shao sauce is a popular Chinese sauce that is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. Made with a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and spices, this sauce is used as a dip or a marinade for meats such as pork or chicken. The sauce is also commonly used in Cantonese-style fried rice or noodle dishes, adding depth and flavor to the dish.

Cha Siu Bao

Cha siu bao is a steamed bun that is filled with delicious and savory barbecued pork. The bun is soft and fluffy, while the filling is juicy and full of flavor. This dish is popular in Cantonese cuisine and is often enjoyed as a snack or as part of a meal. Cha siu bao is also a popular item in dim sum restaurants around the world.

Chai Tau Kueh

Chai tau kueh is a savory radish cake that is a popular food item in Singaporean and Malaysian cuisine. Made with white radish, rice flour, and a variety of seasonings, the cake is usually steamed and then pan-fried to create a crisp and flavorful crust. This dish is often served as a breakfast food or as a snack, and can be enjoyed with soy sauce or chili sauce for added flavor.

Chang Beer

Chang beer is a popular Thai beer that is enjoyed across the world for its crisp and refreshing flavor. Made with high-quality ingredients including malted barley and hops, this beer has a smooth and clean taste that is perfect for pairing with spicy Thai cuisine or for enjoying on its own. Chang beer is a refreshing and satisfying choice for any time of the day.

Changde-style Stewed Beef With Rice Vermicelli

This dish is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for satisfying your hunger. Made with tender chunks of beef, rice vermicelli, and a variety of vegetables, the dish is slow-cooked to create a rich and savory flavor. The dish is often seasoned with soy sauce, chili, and other spices to add depth and complexity to the flavor. This dish is popular in Changde, a city in Hunan Province, China.

Changsha Stinky Tofu

Changsha stinky tofu is a bold and flavorful food that is unique to Chinese cuisine. Made by fermenting tofu for days or weeks in a mixture of brine and other seasonings, the tofu takes on a pungent and earthy aroma that is both distinct and delicious. The tofu is often deep-fried or stir-fried to create a crispy and flavorful texture. This dish is popular in Changsha, the capital of Hunan Province, China.

Changsha-style Rice Vermicelli

Changsha-style rice vermicelli is a popular food item in Hunan Province, China. Made with rice flour and water, the noodles are thin and delicate, creating a tender and chewy texture. The noodles are usually served in a flavorful broth made with fresh vegetables, meat, or seafood, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. The dish is often seasoned with chili, garlic, and other spices to add depth and complexity to the flavor.

Changwang Noodles

Changwang noodles are a popular food item in Shaanxi Province, China. Made with wheat flour and water, the noodles are thick and chewy, creating a filling and satisfying texture. The noodles are usually served in a rich and savory broth made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings, creating a hearty and nutritious meal. The dish is often topped with meat, vegetables, or herbs, creating a delicious and satisfying flavor.

Chao Hong Guo

Chao Hong Guo is a delicious Chinese hotpot dish that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. Traditionally, the dish is served in a large pot filled with a savory broth and a variety of meats, vegetables, and seafood. Diners cook the ingredients themselves at the table, creating a fun and interactive meal experience. This dish is perfect for a cold winter night, and is also a popular meal choice for special occasions.

Char Siu

Char siu is a popular Chinese barbecue dish that is made from marinated pork that is roasted over an open flame. The pork is coated in a sweet and savory sauce made from honey, soy sauce, and other seasonings, creating a delicious and flavorful dish. Char siu is often served with rice or noodles, creating a full and satisfying meal. This dish is popular in Cantonese cuisine and is also enjoyed in other parts of China and around the world.

Char Siu Sauce

Char siu sauce is a popular Chinese sauce that is used to flavor meats such as pork or chicken. Made with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other seasonings, this sauce is sweet, savory, and full of umami flavor. Char siu sauce is often used as a marinade or a glaze for meats, creating a delicious and flavorful dish.

Chatang

Chatang is a delicious and nutritious Chinese porridge that is made with rice, grains, and a variety of vegetables and meats. The porridge is usually seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other spices, creating a hearty and satisfying dish. Chatang is often eaten for breakfast or as a snack, and is perfect for warming you up on a chilly day.

Chestnut Broth

Chestnut broth is a popular Chinese soup that is savory and hearty. Made with roasted chestnuts, pork bones, and a variety of vegetables and herbs, this soup is full of flavor and nutrition. The soup is usually simmered for several hours to allow the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and satisfying broth. Chestnut broth is often served with rice or noodles, creating a filling and satisfying meal.

Chestnut Cake With Bean Paste

Chestnut cake with bean paste is a delicious Chinese dessert that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Made with chestnut flour and sweet bean paste, this cake is soft and chewy and melts in your mouth. The cake is often served with tea or coffee and can also be enjoyed as a dessert after a meal.

Chexo

Chexo is a popular Chinese snack that is perfect for satisfying your hunger between meals. Made with rice flour and a variety of fillings including meat, vegetables, and savory sauces, this snack is both delicious and nutritious. The chexo is usually steamed or pan-fried to create a chewy and delicious texture. Chexo is a popular food item in Guangdong Province, China.

Chhau-a-koe

Chhau-a-koe is a Chinese dim sum dish that is both savory and sweet. Made with a combination of minced pork, Chinese sausage, and water chestnuts, this dish is full of flavor and texture. The filling is wrapped in a sticky rice ball and is often fried to create a crispy and delicious texture. Chhau-a-koe is a popular food item in Guangdong Province, China.

Chiayi

Chiayi is a city in Taiwan that is known for its vibrant street food culture. The city is famous for its delicious snacks and dishes including oyster omelet, braised pork rice, and bubble tea. Visitors to Chiayi can explore its many night markets and food stalls, sampling a variety of delicious dishes and treats.

Chicken And Duck Blood Soup

Chicken and duck blood soup is a traditional Chinese soup that is hearty and nutritious. Made with diced chicken and duck blood, the soup is seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs, creating a rich and savory flavor. The soup is usually served with noodles or rice, creating a filling and satisfying meal. This soup is popular in different parts of China, especially in Sichuan Province.

Chicken in Soy Sauce

Savory and slightly sweet, this dish features juicy chicken thighs that are cooked in a soy sauce-based marinade. Perfect eaten over rice.

Chicken Soup

A comforting bowl of warm chicken soup with clear broth, shredded chicken, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this soup is a must-try.

Chili Oil

Spicy and fragrant, chili oil is a versatile sauce that can be used to add a kick to stir-fries, noodles, and even dumplings.

Chili Oil Wontons

These steamed pork wontons are smothered in a deliciously addictive chili oil sauce. A Sichuan-inspired classic.

Chilled Noodles

Perfect for hot summer days, these chilled noodles are topped with a sesame and soy-based sauce, cucumber, and shredded chicken.

Chinese Cabbage

Also known as Napa cabbage, this fresh and crunchy vegetable is a staple in Chinese cuisine. Great in stir-fries, soups, and salads.

Chinese Cabbage in Mustard

A tangy and spicy dish, Chinese cabbage is drenched in a flavorful mustard sauce. Can be eaten cooked or raw.

Chinese Cabbage, Carrots, and Lettuce

A refreshing and healthy salad that combines crunchy Chinese cabbage, sweet carrots, and tender lettuce. Perfect for a light lunch.

Chinese Carp Soup

This hearty soup is made with chunks of tender carp, ginger, and scallions. Often eaten during Chinese New Year for good luck.

Chinese Carp with Fried Shallots

Crispy fried shallots add a savory crunch to this tender and flaky carp dish. Best served with steamed rice.

Chinese Cruller

Also called “youtiao,” these deep-fried dough sticks are a popular breakfast item in China. Best paired with soymilk or congee.

Chinese Donut

This sweet and fluffy fried dough is studded with sesame seeds and is a classic Chinese dessert.

Chinese Herbal Soups

Often made with ingredients such as goji berries, astragalus root, and dang gui, these nourishing soups are believed to have medicinal properties.

Chinese Noodles

Ranging from thin to thick, round to flat, and wheat-based to rice-based, Chinese noodles are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.

Chinese Sausage

Also known as “lap cheong,” these sweet and savory sausages are typically made with pork and are a popular ingredient in many Chinese dishes.

Chongqing Noodles

A spicy and numbing noodle dish that hails from Chongqing, China. Topped with minced pork and Sichuan peppercorns.

Chongqing Spicy Deep-Fried Chicken

A fiery and crispy chicken dish that is marinated in a chili-soy sauce and deep-fried until golden brown. Best eaten with a cold beer.

Chongyang Cake

A type of steamed cake that is traditionally eaten during the Chongyang Festival. Made with glutinous rice flour, red dates, and chestnuts.

Chow Mein

A classic Chinese-American dish that consists of stir-fried noodles, meat, vegetables, and a savory sauce.

Choy Sum in Oyster Sauce

A simple and delicious side dish that features tender choy sum greens coated in a savory oyster sauce.

Chrysanthemum Tea

A fragrant and floral tea that is made from dried chrysanthemum flowers. Rich in antioxidants and believed to have cooling properties.

Chu Hau Paste

A sweet and sticky paste that is made from rice flour and sugar. Often used as a filling for Chinese pastries.

Chwee Kueh

A small and steamed rice cake that is often served at breakfast in Singapore. Topped with preserved radish and chili sauce.

Ci Ba La

A spicy and sour soup that is made with pickled vegetables, pork, and Sichuan peppercorns. A popular dish in Sichuan province.

Clams in Chicken Soup

A comforting soup that features plump and juicy clams cooked in a clear and flavorful chicken broth.

Cocktail Bun

A sweet and fluffy bun that is filled with a sugary coconut filling. Great with a cup of tea or coffee.

Coconut Bar

A chewy and sweet dessert that is made with coconut milk and sugar. Often served at Chinese bakeries.

Coconut Chicken

A crispy and flavorful chicken dish that features shredded coconut and coconut milk in the batter. Best served with sweet and sour sauce.

Coconut Pudding

A creamy and refreshing dessert that is made with coconut milk, gelatin, and sugar. Often served with fresh fruit.

Cold Chicken Cooked in Wine

A tender and succulent chicken dish that is marinated in Shaoxing wine and served cold. A popular appetizer in Chinese banquets.

Cold Noodles

If you’re craving a refreshing dish to beat the heat, try Cold Noodles! This dish features a tangy sauce with a hint of sweetness, paired with chewy, springy noodles and refreshing toppings like cucumber and cilantro.

Cold Pig’s Ears in Sauce

Not for the faint of heart, Cold Pig’s Ears in Sauce is a unique dish with a chewy texture and a spicy, savory flavor. Served cold, it’s a great appetizer for adventurous eaters.

Congee

Congee is a comforting and soothing rice porridge that’s perfect for breakfast or a light meal. It can be flavored with various toppings like savory meats, pickled vegetables, or sweet fruits.

Congee with Lean Pork and Century Egg

For a hearty and flavorful variation of Congee, try Congee with Lean Pork and Century Egg. The lean pork adds a meaty flavor while the Century Egg gives it a unique, slightly salty taste.

Cooking Wine

Cooking Wine is an essential ingredient in many Chinese dishes, adding depth and complexity to savory sauces and marinades. It has a bold flavor similar to dry sherry.

Corn Crab Soup

Corn Crab Soup is a creamy and comforting soup made with fresh corn and chunks of crab meat. It’s a delicious appetizer or light meal.

Crab and Fish Stomachs

This seafood dish features tender crab and fish stomachs cooked in a flavorful broth with ginger and green onion. The texture is chewy and the flavor is sweet and savory.

Crab-Apple Flower Cake

Crab-Apple Flower Cake is a sweet and fragrant dessert made with rice flour, crab apple blossoms, and sugar. It’s a delicacy that’s perfect for special occasions.

Cream Bun

A classic Chinese bakery treat, Cream Buns are soft, pillowy buns filled with rich, sweet cream. They’re perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.

Cream Horn

Cream Horns are a crispy, flaky pastry filled with whipped cream. They’re a delicious way to indulge in something sweet and crispy.

Crisp Fritter

Crisp Fritters are a popular street food in China, featuring a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a soft, chewy interior. They’re usually sprinkled with sugar for a sweet finish.

Crisp Fritter with Sesame

For a nutty twist on classic Crisp Fritters, try them with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. It adds a delicious crunch and nutty flavor to the sweet pastry.

Crisp Noodle

Crisp Noodles are a crunchy and flavorful topping for soups or stir-fries. They’re made by deep-frying fresh wheat noodles until they’re crispy and golden-brown.

Crisp Thin Fritter Twist

Crisp Thin Fritter Twists are a delicate and crispy pastry made with tender dough twisted into intricate shapes and deep-fried until golden-brown. They’re perfect for snacking or as a sweet treat.

Crispy Fried Chicken

Crispy Fried Chicken is a beloved Chinese dish that’s made with marinated chicken coated in a crispy batter and deep-fried to perfection. It’s often served with spicy dipping sauce.

Crispy Fried Noodles

Crispy Fried Noodles are a versatile ingredient in Chinese cuisine, used as a base for many dishes or as a crunchy topping for soups and salads. They’re made by deep-frying fresh egg noodles until they’re crispy and golden-brown.

Crispy Skin Fish Rolls

Crispy Skin Fish Rolls are a delicious and healthy seafood dish made with fresh fish wrapped in bean curd skin and deep-fried until crispy. They’re often served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce.

Crispy Whole Fish with Zao-La

Crispy Whole Fish with Zao-La is a Sichuan-style dish that features a whole fish deep-fried until crispy and topped with a spicy and savory sauce made with fermented soybeans, chili peppers, and Sichuan peppercorns.

Crossing the Bridge Noodles

Crossing the Bridge Noodles is a Yunnanese dish that features an array of ingredients in a hot and flavorful broth, including sliced meats, vegetables, and rice noodles. It’s often served with chili oil for an added kick.

Crullers

Crullers are a popular breakfast pastry in many Chinese households, featuring a doughy, twisted pastry that’s deep-fried until golden-brown. They’re crispy on the outside and pillowy soft on the inside.

Crystal Balls

Crystal Balls are a delicate and translucent dessert made with glutinous rice flour and stuffed with sweet fillings like red bean paste or sesame seed paste. They’re often served in syrup for added sweetness.

Crystal Cake

Crystal Cake is a simple and delicate dessert made with sweet glutinous rice flour and coconut milk. It has a slightly chewy texture and a subtle coconut flavor.

Cucumber Pork

Cucumber Pork is a refreshing and light dish that features thin slices of pork sautéed with crunchy cucumber and a savory sauce. It’s perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

Cured Beef and Lamb

Cured Beef and Lamb is a savory and flavorful dish that’s often served as a snack or appetizer. The meat is marinated with spices and cured until tender and flavorful.

Cured Ham with Cowpeas

Cured Ham with Cowpeas is a delicious and hearty dish that features savory ham and tender cowpeas cooked in a flavorful broth with garlic and ginger. It’s a popular comfort food in many Chinese households.

Curry Beef Turnover

Curry Beef Turnovers are a fusion of Chinese and Indian flavors, featuring flaky pastry stuffed with spicy curry beef and vegetables. It’s a delicious and satisfying snack or meal.

Custard Tart

Custard Tarts are a classic Chinese dessert that feature a flaky crust filled with rich and creamy custard. They’re perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.

Cuttlefish Geng

Cuttlefish Geng is a popular Chinese stew made with fresh cuttlefish, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and other flavorful ingredients. It’s a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for fall and winter.

Wrapping Up

We hope this list of Chinese foods that start with the letter C has inspired you to explore more of the rich and diverse culinary traditions of China. From classic comfort foods like Congee to street food snacks like Cha Siu Bao, it’s clear that Chinese cuisine has something to offer for a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing dish like Chilled Cucumber Salad or a hearty bowl of Clay Pot Fish, there’s no shortage of delicious options to choose from. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at making some of these dishes at home?

In short, Chinese foods starting with the alphabet C are a testament to the incredible variety and complexity of one of the world’s most ancient and beloved cuisines. So go ahead, take a culinary journey through China, and discover all the amazing flavors and textures that this fascinating country has to offer. Happy eating!