When it comes to Chinese cuisine, there are endless options for meat lovers. From roasted duck to firecracker shrimp, Chinese food is known for its savory meat dishes. One popular Chinese meat dish that is gaining popularity worldwide is Cho Cho, also known as beef sticks or beef skewers.
What is Cho Cho?
Cho Cho is a popular Chinese meat dish, made by marinating and skewering small cuts of beef onto bamboo sticks and grilling them over high heat. The marinade used for Cho Cho varies, but it typically includes flavors such as soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil. Cho Cho is served as a street food in China, often sold by vendors in busy shopping areas or night markets. The dish is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike due to its delicious taste and easy-to-eat presentation.
The History of Cho Cho
The exact origins of Cho Cho are unknown, but it is believed that the dish was created in northern China during the Qing Dynasty. Skewered meats were common in nomadic cultures who would cook meat over an open fire − often on a skewer − as a means of preserving it. Cho Cho as we know it today became popular in urban areas during the 20th century. The dish quickly gained popularity, and vendors began selling it in food markets and on the street.
How is Cho Cho Made?
The process of making Cho Cho is relatively simple. Small cuts of beef are marinated, skewered onto bamboo sticks, and grilled over high heat until cooked through. While the beef is grilling, vendors will often brush the meat with the remaining marinade to add extra flavor and keep the meat moist.
The type of beef used for Cho Cho varies, but it is typically cut into small cubes or thin slices. The beef is often cut from cheaper, tougher cuts of meat that have been tenderized through the marinade. Popular meats for Cho Cho include flank steak, sirloin, and brisket.
How is Cho Cho Served?
Cho Cho is typically served as a street food in China, making it an easy and convenient snack for those on the go. Once the beef is cooked, the skewers are served hot and can be eaten directly off the stick. Cho Cho is often served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and honey, which enhances the flavor of the dish.
Where to Find Cho Cho Outside of China?
With the growing popularity of Cho Cho, you can now find this savory meat dish at a number of Chinese restaurants around the world. In the United States, Cho Cho is often served at dim sum restaurants or as an appetizer at Chinese restaurants. If you are unable to find Cho Cho at a restaurant near you, it is relatively easy to make at home. Simply marinate small cuts of beef in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil, skewer the meat, and grill over high heat until cooked through.
Conclusion
Cho Cho is a delicious and easy-to-eat Chinese meat dish that has gained popularity both in China and around the world. By using affordable cuts of meat and simple marinades, Cho Cho is a great option for meat lovers looking for a tasty and convenient snack. Whether eaten on the streets of China or at a local restaurant, Cho Cho is sure to become a new favorite for those who love Chinese cuisine.
