Rice, Noodles and Other Everyday Staples

Why go

Knowing a few staple names makes simple meals easier to choose. Rice often anchors southern plates, while wheat flour appears in northern noodles, jiaozi dumplings and mantou buns. Soy foods and regional vegetables round out these meals, so the staple alone does not tell the whole story.

Useful to know

• Look for jiaozi when you want dumplings and mantou when you want steamed wheat buns.
• Noodles may arrive in broth, with toppings, or served dry; check the dish description before ordering.
• Ask which grain or flour is used if you are comparing regional staples.