When you think of Chinese food, there's a high chance a lot of the dishes you picture aren't actually traditional Chinese ones at all.
As the popularity of Chinese cuisine spread around the world, many chefs began to create their own new recipes, both to make their menus unique and to better cater to local tastes. It wasn't long before the best loved of these dishes became staple Chinese foods, found pretty much everywhere.
For some people, having a Chinese meal without the usual Westernised elements would be a disappointment. But others want an experience that's more authentic, more traditionally Chinese when they go out for dinner. Here's how to get just that the next time you visit your local Chinese restaurant.
Keep things simple
Often, the westernised versions of Chinese food are the things with fancy names. By avoiding these, you have a better chance of hitting something more traditional.
Instead, look for menu items with simple, descriptive names, which are often more like authentic Chinese food. You could also look out for things with a Chinese name, but bear in mind these could simply be Western dishes like sweet and sour chicken with their names translated.
Try something adventurous
Real Chinese food often includes ingredients rarely, if ever, found in Western kitchens. If you see something like chicken feet on the menu or perhaps a vegetable you've never heard of, it's a great way to experience a genuine taste of China.
Although some of the dishes you'll find might sound strange to someone outside China, there's no better way to eat authentically.
Talk to your waiter
It's always worth asking your waiter when you want to try authentic Chinese food. They should be able to suggest the things to try to help you get the experience you want.
If you're lucky, you might even be able to talk to the chef. Even if the menu is made up of food to satisfy Western palates, they'll often be happy to rustle up a few dishes for the more adventurous.
Ditch the cutlery
Chinese food is typically prepared in bite-size pieces, intended to be eaten with chopsticks. By using a knife and fork, you don't get the right experience, with the flavours coming through poorly and the wrong balance between sauce and ingredients.
If you struggle to use chopsticks, get a pair to practice with at home and you'll be an expert in no time.
Have tea on the side
For the most part, Chinese food is served with a cup of tea, often green. Instead of getting a jug of water, a glass of juice or a bottle of wine, try ordering tea instead. If you want alcohol with your food, go for some rice wine or one of the many great Chinese beers.
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