What Do British People Call Chinese Food? (A Comprehensive Guide)

What Do British People Call Chinese Food?

When you think of Chinese food, what comes to mind? For many people in the United States, images of takeout cartons filled with greasy fried rice and sweet and sour chicken may come to mind. But in the United Kingdom, Chinese food is a completely different beast.

Here, Chinese food is often known as “Chinky food” or “Chinky takeaways.” This term is considered derogatory by many people, but it is still widely used in the UK. So, what exactly is Chinky food, and why is it so different from Chinese food in the United States?

In this article, we will explore the history of Chinky food in the UK, the different types of dishes that are typically served, and the reasons why this cuisine is so popular.

Name Description Example
Chinky A derogatory term for Chinese food or a Chinese restaurant. “I went to the Chinky last night and had a great meal.”
Chinese The standard term for Chinese food or a Chinese restaurant. “I went to the Chinese restaurant last night and had a great meal.”
Chow Mein A type of Chinese food that is made with noodles, vegetables, and meat. “I love chow mein. It’s my favorite Chinese food.”

History of Chinese Food in Britain

Chinese food has been a part of British cuisine for over 200 years. The first Chinese restaurants in Britain opened in the 1800s, and they quickly became popular with the British public. Chinese food was seen as a cheap and exotic alternative to traditional British cuisine, and it was also seen as a healthier option.

In the early days, Chinese food in Britain was often adapted to suit British tastes. Dishes were made with less oil and salt, and they were often served with rice instead of noodles. However, over time, Chinese food in Britain has become more authentic, and it is now enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.

Today, there are Chinese restaurants all over Britain, and Chinese food is a popular choice for takeaway and delivery. Chinese food has also influenced British cuisine, and many traditional British dishes now include Chinese ingredients or cooking methods.

Different Types of Chinese Food in Britain

There are many different types of Chinese food available in Britain. Some of the most popular dishes include:

  • Fried rice
  • Chow mein
  • Dim sum
  • Peking duck
  • Sweet and sour pork

Fried rice is a dish made with rice, vegetables, and meat or seafood. It is often served with soy sauce or chili sauce. Chow mein is a dish made with noodles, vegetables, and meat or seafood. It is often served with a sweet and sour sauce. Dim sum is a type of Chinese dim sum, which is a small dish made with steamed or fried dough. It is often served with dipping sauces. Peking duck is a dish made with duck that is roasted and then served with pancakes, hoisin sauce, and cucumber. Sweet and sour pork is a dish made with pork that is fried and then cooked in a sweet and sour sauce.

These are just a few of the many different types of Chinese food that are available in Britain. Chinese food is a diverse cuisine with a wide variety of dishes to choose from.

Chinese food has become an integral part of British cuisine. It is a popular choice for both dining out and takeaway, and it has influenced many traditional British dishes. Chinese food is a delicious and healthy option that is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.

What Do British People Call Chinese Food?

Chinese food is a popular cuisine in Britain, and there are many different ways to refer to it. Some of the most common terms include:

  • Chinese takeaway: This term refers to Chinese food that is ordered from a restaurant and brought home to eat.
  • Chinese restaurant: This term refers to a restaurant that serves Chinese food.
  • Chinese food: This term can refer to any type of Chinese food, regardless of where it is purchased or eaten.
  • Dim sum: This term refers to a type of Chinese food that is served in small portions and eaten with chopsticks.
  • Szechuan food: This term refers to a type of Chinese food that is known for its spiciness.
  • Cantonese food: This term refers to a type of Chinese food that is known for its milder flavor.
  • Hong Kong food: This term refers to a type of Chinese food that is influenced by the flavors of Hong Kong.

The term that is used to refer to Chinese food in Britain can vary depending on the region of the country. For example, in London, Chinese food is often referred to as “Chinese takeaway,” while in Manchester, it is more likely to be called “Chinese food.”

How Chinese Food is Adapted for British Tastes

Chinese food in Britain is often adapted to suit British tastes. Some of the ways that Chinese food is adapted include:

  • Using less chili peppers: British people tend to prefer Chinese food that is not as spicy as Chinese food that is served in China. As a result, Chinese restaurants in Britain often use less chili peppers in their dishes.
  • Using more soy sauce: British people tend to prefer Chinese food that is more flavorful than Chinese food that is served in China. As a result, Chinese restaurants in Britain often use more soy sauce in their dishes.
  • Adding more meat: British people tend to prefer Chinese food that contains more meat than Chinese food that is served in China. As a result, Chinese restaurants in Britain often add more meat to their dishes.
  • Making the dishes less oily: British people tend to prefer Chinese food that is less oily than Chinese food that is served in China. As a result, Chinese restaurants in Britain often make their dishes less oily.

These are just a few of the ways that Chinese food is adapted for British tastes. By adapting their dishes to suit British tastes, Chinese restaurants in Britain are able to attract more customers and make more money.

The Impact of Chinese Food on British Cuisine

Chinese food has had a significant impact on British cuisine. Some of the ways that Chinese food has influenced British cuisine include:

  • The of new ingredients and cooking techniques: Chinese food has introduced a number of new ingredients and cooking techniques to British cuisine. Some of the most common Chinese ingredients that are now used in British cooking include soy sauce, chili peppers, and garlic. Some of the most common Chinese cooking techniques that are now used in British cooking include stir-frying, deep-frying, and steaming.
  • The creation of new dishes: Chinese food has inspired the creation of a number of new dishes in British cuisine. Some of the most popular Chinese-inspired dishes in Britain include chow mein, fried rice, and spring rolls.
  • The changing of traditional British dishes: Chinese food has also influenced the way that traditional British dishes are made. For example, Chinese ingredients and cooking techniques are now often used to make traditional British dishes such as fish and chips and shepherd’s pie.

Chinese food has had a significant impact on British cuisine, and it is likely to continue to have a major influence in the years to come.

Chinese food is a popular and delicious cuisine that has had a significant impact on British cuisine. By adapting their dishes to suit British tastes, Chinese restaurants in Britain have been able to attract more customers and make more money. Chinese food has also introduced a number of new ingredients and cooking techniques to British cuisine, and has inspired the creation of a number of new dishes. Chinese food is likely to continue to have a major influence on British cuisine in the years to come.

What Do British People Call Chinese Food?

  • What is the most common name for Chinese food in the UK?

The most common name for Chinese food in the UK is “Chinese takeaway.” This is because Chinese food is often eaten as a takeaway meal, rather than being eaten in a restaurant.

  • What are some other names for Chinese food in the UK?

Other names for Chinese food in the UK include “Chinky,” “Chinese,” “Chinese chow mein,” and “Chinese food.”

  • Is there a difference between Chinese food in the UK and Chinese food in China?

Yes, there is a difference between Chinese food in the UK and Chinese food in China. Chinese food in the UK is often adapted to suit British tastes, and may include ingredients that are not typically found in Chinese food in China.

  • Why is Chinese food so popular in the UK?

There are a number of reasons why Chinese food is so popular in the UK. These include:

  • Chinese food is relatively affordable.
  • Chinese food is often quick and easy to prepare.
  • Chinese food is often served in large portions.
  • Chinese food is often seen as being healthy and nutritious.
  • Chinese food is often seen as being exotic and exciting.
  • Where can I find good Chinese food in the UK?

There are many places where you can find good Chinese food in the UK. These include:

  • Chinese restaurants
  • Chinese takeaways
  • Chinese food stalls
  • Chinese food delivery services
  • How can I make Chinese food at home?

There are many recipes available online for making Chinese food at home. You can also find Chinese food cookbooks in most bookstores.

  • What are some tips for eating Chinese food in the UK?

Here are some tips for eating Chinese food in the UK:

  • Be aware of the different names for Chinese food.
  • Ask your server if you are not sure what something is.
  • Be prepared for large portions.
  • Be aware of the different levels of spiciness.
  • Enjoy!

    the term Chinese food in Britain is a complex and multifaceted one. It encompasses a wide variety of dishes from different regions of China, as well as dishes that have been adapted to British tastes. The term is also used to refer to restaurants that serve Chinese food, as well as to the food itself.

The history of Chinese food in Britain is a long and fascinating one. It dates back to the early 19th century, when Chinese sailors and traders first arrived in the country. These early Chinese immigrants brought with them their own cuisine, which was soon adopted by the British public. In the years since, Chinese food has become increasingly popular in Britain, and it is now one of the most popular cuisines in the country.

There are a number of reasons why Chinese food is so popular in Britain. One reason is that it is a very versatile cuisine. There are many different types of Chinese food to choose from, so there is something for everyone. Another reason for the popularity of Chinese food is that it is relatively inexpensive. Chinese food is often seen as a good value for money, and it is a popular choice for people who are looking for a quick and affordable meal.

Finally, Chinese food is simply delicious. The flavors of Chinese food are often very complex and flavorful, and they can appeal to a wide range of palates. Chinese food is also often very aromatic, and the smell of Chinese food cooking can be very enticing.

If you are ever in Britain, be sure to try some Chinese food. You won’t be disappointed.

Author Profile

Kelsey Hammons
Kelsey Hammons
I was born and raised in the fabulous state of Maryland but recently decided to pack up my stuff and move to the Midwest city they call Chicago.

I hope to capture all of my life’s adventures of living in the windy city. AKA the food I cook, my journey to the Chicago Marathon, the books I read and the trashy TV shows I watch. I’m a health-nut, book-worm and exercise fiend.

Join me, Kelsey, on this exciting journey as I embrace the challenges and joys of my new life in Chicago. From mastering the art of healthy cooking to hitting the pavement for marathon training, my blog is a window into my world of self-discovery and fun.

Similar Posts