China is a vast country with several regions, each of which has its distinct history, culture, and cuisine. Although many Chinese food restaurants in the U.S. serve similar dishes, the menu typically contains items from all over China, with different flavors and characteristics. Here are four of the most common phrases you’ll see in a Chinese food menu. 

4 Chinese Food Phrases to Know

1. Hunan

Hunan is a province in Southeast Central China. Also known as Xiang cuisine, it comprises the cuisines of the Xiang River region, Dongting Lake, and Western Hunan Province. It’s characterized by its hot, spicy flavors and deep colors. Many restaurants use this style to prepare chicken, beef, and shrimp. The sauce contains chili paste, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and other spices.

2. Moo Goo Gai Pan

Some American Chinese restaurants serve dishes that are adapted from authentic Chinese recipes. Moo Goo Gai Pan is one of these, adapted from a Cantonese dish. Cantonese food is from the Guangzhou region. Moo Goo Gai Pan is a stir-fried dish with chicken, button mushrooms, and other vegetables, such as snow peas, bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, cabbage, and bok choy.

3. Moo Shu

Moo Shu, as in the popular dish Moo Shu pork, originated in Shandong in northern China and first appeared in the U.S. in the 1960s. It is another stir-fried dish featuring pork, green onions, mushrooms, and scrambled eggs with Peking pancakes and hoisin sauce, served over rice.

4. Pu Pu Platter

The Pu Pu Platter is another American Chinese dish which was developed stateside with roots in Asian cuisine. It can include either Hawaiian or Chinese foods. The name is derived from the Hawaiian word pū-pū, which means a type of hors d'oeuvre or small bite. It consists of an assortment of items, such as meat and seafood appetizers, and is excellent for sharing. 

Hong Wah Chinese Restaurant in Penfield, NY, is one of Monroe County’s best sources for authentic Chinese food. From traditional items like moo shoo pork to more unusual dishes like prawns in hot spicy sauce and pickled cabbage soup, this Asian restaurant has something for everyone. To place a takeout order, call (585) 385-2808 or visit the website to see their dinner menu.