Are you craving the bold flavors and textures of traditional Chinese cuisine, but struggling with gluten intolerance or sensitivity? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering gluten-free Chinese recipes that are just as authentic as their gluten-containing counterparts. From spicy Sichuan dishes to sweet and sour favorites, these recipes have been carefully adapted to exclude gluten while retaining all the flavor and excitement of traditional Chinese cooking.
In this collection, you’ll find classic dishes like Kung Pao Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, and Mapo Tofu, as well as modern twists on old favorites. With a range of ingredients and cooking techniques, these recipes are sure to satisfy any appetite. So whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious cook, let’s dive in and explore the delicious world of gluten-free Chinese cuisine!
Gluten Free Kung Pao Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this gluten-free version of Kung Pao chicken, a spicy and savory stir-fry dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp gluten-free soy sauce
– 1 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts or cashews
– 2 tbsp gluten-free vegetable oil
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken and toss to coat.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add garlic, bell peppers, and peanuts. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return chicken to the wok and stir-fry for an additional minute. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gluten Free Sweet and Sour Pork
A classic Chinese-inspired dish gets a gluten-free twist with this simple recipe. Crispy pork, tangy sweet and sour sauce, and crunchy vegetables make for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup gluten-free sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch and salt.
2. Add pork pieces and toss to coat evenly.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add coated pork and cook until browned and crispy (5-6 minutes).
5. Remove pork from the pan and set aside.
6. In the same pan, add sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened (2-3 minutes).
7. Add broccoli florets and pineapple chunks to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Pour in sweet and sour sauce and stir to combine with vegetables.
9. Return pork to the pan and simmer for 5-6 minutes or until cooked through.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten Free Mapo Tofu
Mapo tofu is a popular Chinese dish that combines silken tofu with a spicy and savory sauce made from Sichuan peppercorns, chili peppers, and fermented soybeans. This gluten-free version uses tamari instead of soy sauce to cater to those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
– 1 block silken tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons tamari
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup fermented soybean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1-2 dried red chili peppers, crushed or 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes
– Salt, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together tamari and cornstarch.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add tofu and stir-fry until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add soybean paste, Sichuan peppercorns, and chili peppers; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
6. Add tamari mixture and stir-fry until sauce thickens, about 1 minute.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten Free Beef and Broccoli
This quick and easy recipe combines the savory flavors of beef and broccoli with a hint of garlic, all wrapped up in a gluten-free package.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye work well)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp coconut oil
– 1 tsp gluten-free soy sauce (or tamari)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove beef from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of coconut oil and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add broccoli florets to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
6. Return beef to the pan and stir in gluten-free soy sauce (or tamari). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten Free Spring Rolls
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these crispy and delicious gluten-free spring rolls, filled with a savory mixture of vegetables and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gluten-free spring roll wrappers (usually found in the Asian food section)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup cooked and cooled chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped cabbage, shredded carrots, scallions, and cooked chicken.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour over the vegetable mixture and mix well.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Fry the spring rolls in hot oil (about 350°F) for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Gluten Free General Tso’s Chicken
Get ready to experience the flavors of China with this gluten-free twist on a classic dish! This recipe combines crispy chicken, savory sauce, and crunchy vegetables for a mouth-watering meal that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tsp gluten-free soy sauce
– 2 tsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil, divided
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup sliced bell peppers
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, gluten-free soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add chicken and toss to coat.
2. Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tbsp of vegetable oil. Add broccoli and bell peppers; cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return chicken to skillet with vegetables. Pour in sauce mixture and stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute.
5. Cook time: About 15-20 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Gluten Free Hot and Sour Soup
This recipe is a twist on the classic Chinese soup, made gluten-free and packed with flavor. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this hot and sour soup is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth (gluten-free)
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini), sliced
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free)
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 2 cups water
– 2 green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, mushrooms, tofu, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Stir in water and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten Free Chow Mein
This recipe serves 4-6 people and is a quick and easy alternative to traditional chow mein, using gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles. With its flavorful mix of vegetables and savory sauce, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
• 1 package rice noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 2 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons oyster sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour into the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked noodles with vegetable mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
15-20 minutes
Gluten Free Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish gets a gluten-free twist! This recipe uses simple ingredients and minimal cooking time to create a delicious and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (gluten-free)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (gluten-free)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Push the rice mixture to one side of the pan.
5. Pour the beaten eggs into the other side of the pan; scramble until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs with the rice mixture.
7. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gluten Free Dumplings
These tender and flavorful dumplings are a perfect treat for anyone with dietary restrictions or preferences. Made with simple ingredients, they’re easy to make and can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup warm water
– Filling of your choice (e.g., ground meat, vegetables, or mushrooms)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter).
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, then place your desired filling in the center.
6. Fold the dumpling over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing edges together to seal.
7. Cook dumplings by steaming them for 8-10 minutes or pan-frying with oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten Free Egg Drop Soup
This classic Chinese soup gets a gluten-free makeover with the addition of eggs and a dash of soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth (gluten-free)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.
5. Crack in the eggs and stir gently to create thin, egg-drop-like strands.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten Free Cashew Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the creamy richness of cashews with the savory taste of chicken, all while being gluten-free.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, grind the cashews into a smooth paste.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the cashew paste to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
7. Add the chicken back into the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Simmer until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten Free Mongolian Beef
A flavorful and savory dish that combines the bold flavors of Mongolia with the convenience of a gluten-free diet. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tbsp coconut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup coconut aminos (gluten-free)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Gluten-free noodles or rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, coconut aminos, honey, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
4. Return the beef to the skillet and stir to coat with the Mongolian-inspired sauce.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the beef is cooked to your liking.
6. Serve over gluten-free noodles or rice, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten Free Char Siu Pork
This classic Chinese dish gets a gluten-free twist with tender pork and sweet, sticky sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp gluten-free soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove pork from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. In a large skillet, combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Add the marinated pork to the skillet and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Gluten Free Scallion Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious and savory twist on traditional pancakes, infused with the pungency of scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup scallion greens, chopped (about 4-6 green onions)
– Optional: additional seasonings such as garlic powder or paprika to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and chopped scallions; stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet or griddle.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 pancakes in total, depending on size.
Gluten Free Sesame Chicken
This Asian-inspired dish combines the nutty flavor of sesame oil with the savory taste of chicken, all while being gluten-free.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (gluten-free)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Dredge the chicken in gluten-free flour, shaking off any excess.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten Free Wonton Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this gluten-free wonton soup is a twist on the classic Chinese dish. With a rich broth and tender dumplings, it’s sure to warm your belly and your heart.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gluten-free wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of chicken broth (make sure it’s gluten-free)
– 1 cup of water
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce (gluten-free)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: scallions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chicken broth, water, and soy sauce to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the wontons by placing a spoonful of your favorite filling (e.g., pork, vegetables, or shrimp) in the center of each wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle, pressing the edges together to seal the wonton.
5. Once the broth is ready, add the wontons to the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten Free Stir-Fried Green Beans
A quick and flavorful recipe that showcases the crunch and sweetness of green beans, perfect for a healthy side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce (or tamari)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Add the garlic, soy sauce (or tamari), salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, add red pepper flakes and stir-fry for another minute.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Discover the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine, now gluten-free! This collection of 18 recipes brings together classic dishes like Kung Pao Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, and General Tso’s Chicken, all adapted to be gluten-free. From savory stir-fries to comforting soups and noodle dishes, these recipes showcase the diversity of Chinese cooking while catering to dietary restrictions. With simple instructions and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll be able to create delicious and authentic-tasting gluten-free Chinese meals at home.
