If your idea of Chinese cuisine is noodles in a box or fried rice with sweet and sour pork, then you are in for a big treat. Real Chinese food is varied, fresh, healthy, and delicious. In this activity, you’ll be tempting your taste buds while you learn about Chinese cuisine and plan an eating extravaganza.

Instructions:

You’ll be creating an authentic Chinese menu that offers a variety of dishes and explains Chinese food culture and table manners. To plan this menu you’ll need to follow this plan:

--When you’re dining out in China take note of the number of dishes served, the variety of foods on offer and the different food combinations.

--When you get home, create a beautiful menu for a special Chinese feast. Your menu will look authentic if written in black ink on rice paper. Try to include some Chinese characters and maybe a pair of souvenir chopsticks.

--Your menu will need to offer at least three dishes in each of these categories: vegetable dishes, legume dishes, fish dishes, white meat dishes, red meat dishes, fruit dishes, and tea to drink.

--Throughout your menu aim to entice the diner to try foods that will bring luck or fortune. For example, egg rolls symbolize wealth, while oranges and tangerines will bring luck. A whole chicken emphasizes family unity and a whole fish will bring prosperity. For a long life, serve peanuts, but for a peaceful life you will need to serve peaches.

--Teach your fellow diners about good table manners. Instructions may need to be included on how to use chopsticks. You could also include superstitions about chop sticks. It’s considered bad luck to drop your chop sticks and an uneven pair of chopsticks may lead to missing a plane or boat! Draw illustrations wherever you can to help diners understand the instructions on the menu.

Conclusion:

A beautiful menu can be a wonderful souvenir of the unique and delicious dishes you’ve sampled while on vacation. It also tells the story of a different culture. Frame your menu and hang it in the kitchen once you get home or throw a dinner party for your friends and serve some real Chinese cuisine.

Supplies & Materials

-black ink
-rice paper
-menu samples

User Reviews

Tell everyone what you think!
Be the FIRST to write a review for this activity.

Copyright © 2009 Fogglight

HOME & ABROAD:   About Us |  Terms of Use |  Privacy