The Chinese Chicken Cookbook: 100 Easy-To-Prepare, Authentic Recipes for the American Table

In Chinese folklore, allegory and mythology, writes Yin-Fei Lo (The Chinese Cookbook), chicken is one of the foods that has""meanings and significance beyond satisfying hunger."" And Yin-Fei Lo's inclusion of intricate calligraphy by San Yong Wong and explanations of the importance of many dishes, as well as anecdotes about her experiences in China, do make this book feel more significant than a standard weeknight chicken cookbook. Nonetheless, it does offer a collection of easy-to-prepare recipes that will greatly enhance any cook's standard repertoire. Reader-friendly sections on Chinese ingredients and techniques make recipes such as Hot and Sour Soup (Seun Lot Tong), Ginger Noodles with Chicken (Geung See Gai Mein), Chicken Sui Mai (Gai Yuk Siu Mai), and Street Dumplings with Vinegar Ginger Dip (Gai Bin Gau) approachable and non-intimidating, even if ingredient lists are long. A final chapter on the Mah-Jongg Chicken feast makes this involved and symbolic meal seem doable for a cook in need of a unique special occasion menu.