When you want to cook meat slowly with liquid, you use 炖肉 (dùn ròu). It means 'to stew meat'. Think of a delicious, tender dish that cooks for a long time. This word is very practical for talking about cooking in Chinese households. If you like to cook or eat stewed dishes, you'll hear and use 炖肉 often.
When you want to say that you're going to stew meat, the Chinese word is 炖肉 (dùn ròu).
You might use this when talking about cooking dinner or describing a recipe.
For example, if you say “我喜欢炖肉” (wǒ xǐhuān dùn ròu), it means “I like to stew meat.”
Another example: “妈妈正在炖肉” (māma zhèngzài dùn ròu) means “Mom is stewing meat right now.”
When you're talking about cooking meat in Chinese, one very common and useful verb is 炖 (dùn), which means to stew. So, when you say 炖肉 (dùn ròu), you're literally saying 'stew meat'.
This is a great word to know because stewing is a popular cooking method in Chinese cuisine. You'll often see dishes like 红烧肉 (hóngshāoròu) – braised pork – where the meat is slowly cooked in liquid until it's tender.
It's different from just boiling or frying. 炖 implies a longer, slower cooking process that makes the meat very soft and flavorful. So, if you want to describe cooking meat in this specific way, 炖肉 is the perfect phrase.
When we talk about cooking meat in Chinese, one common and very practical verb is 炖肉 (dùnròu). This specifically refers to the method of stewing meat, which involves cooking it slowly in liquid over a long period. It's a popular way to make meat tender and flavorful in Chinese cuisine. You'll often hear it used in everyday conversations about meal preparation. So, if you're planning to make a hearty meat dish that's cooked until it's super soft, 炖肉 is the word you're looking for.
When we talk about cooking meat in Chinese, one super common and tasty method is stewing. The word for that is 炖肉 (dùn ròu).
Think of it as slow-cooking meat in a pot with liquid, often until it's really tender and flavorful. You might 炖 (dùn) beef, pork, or even chicken.
It’s a versatile cooking technique, perfect for making those comforting, hearty dishes.
So, next time you're thinking of a delicious, home-cooked meal with tender meat, remember 炖肉!
炖肉 in 30 Seconds
- Cook meat slowly in liquid.
- Makes meat tender and flavorful.
- Common cooking method in Chinese cuisine.
§ What does 炖肉 (dùn ròu) mean?
Alright, let's talk about 炖肉 (dùn ròu). It's a pretty straightforward verb in Chinese, and it means 'to stew meat'. No surprises there. When you see or hear 炖肉, immediately think of cooking meat slowly in a liquid, usually in a pot, until it's tender and flavorful. It's a very common cooking method in China, and you'll find it in many home kitchens and restaurants.
- DEFINITION
- To cook meat slowly in liquid, typically in a covered pot, until it is very tender.
Think of dishes like braised pork belly, beef stew, or even just chicken stewed with vegetables. All of these fall under the umbrella of 炖肉. It's about that slow, moist cooking process that breaks down tough cuts of meat and infuses them with flavor. It's a comforting kind of cooking.
§ When do people use 炖肉 (dùn ròu)?
You'll use 炖肉 (dùn ròu) whenever you're talking about the act of stewing meat. It's a verb, so it describes the action. You can use it in a general sense, like 'I like to stew meat,' or more specifically, 'I'm stewing pork tonight.'
Let's look at some examples to make this crystal clear:
When you're discussing cooking methods:
我喜欢用高压锅炖肉，这样更快。
Translation hint: I like to stew meat in a pressure cooker, it's faster that way.
When you're talking about preparing a specific dish:
今天晚上我打算炖肉吃。
Translation hint: Tonight I plan to stew meat to eat.
When you're describing someone else's cooking:
奶奶最会炖肉了，她做的红烧肉特别好吃。
Translation hint: Grandma is best at stewing meat, her braised pork is especially delicious.
When asking about someone's plans for a meal:
你今天中午要炖肉吗？
Translation hint: Are you going to stew meat for lunch today?
As you can see, it's pretty versatile. It's a practical word for everyday conversations, especially around food and cooking. If you're learning about Chinese cuisine or just trying to understand daily life, 炖肉 (dùn ròu) is a word you'll definitely come across often. It's also often used in compound words to describe specific types of stewed dishes, for example, 炖牛肉 (dùn niúròu) which means 'stewed beef'. But for now, focus on the basic verb. Master this, and you're one step closer to talking about delicious Chinese food like a pro.
§ How to Use 炖肉 (dùn ròu)
Alright, let's get into how to actually use 炖肉 (dùn ròu) in a sentence. It's a pretty straightforward verb, meaning 'to stew meat'. Think of it like cooking something slowly in liquid until it's tender. You'll usually see it followed by what kind of meat is being stewed, or sometimes just 'meat' in general if it's already clear from context.
- Basic Structure
- Subject + 炖肉 + Object (optional: type of meat)
The most common way to use 炖肉 is to simply say who is stewing what. The 'meat' part is often implied or can be specified. Here are some examples:
妈妈喜欢炖肉。
This translates to: Mom likes to stew meat. Here, 'meat' is general.
他正在炖肉。
This means: He is currently stewing meat. Again, general 'meat'.
§ Specifying the Meat
Often, you'll want to say *what kind* of meat is being stewed. You can do this by putting the type of meat before 肉 (ròu). Common examples include 牛肉 (niúròu - beef), 猪肉 (zhūròu - pork), or 鸡肉 (jīròu - chicken).
她想炖牛肉。
Meaning: She wants to stew beef.
我最喜欢吃炖猪肉。
This translates to: I like to eat stewed pork the most.
§ Using 炖肉 with Adverbs or Time Expressions
You can easily add adverbs of time or manner before 炖肉 to give more detail to the action.
今天晚上我要炖肉。
This means: Tonight, I will stew meat.
她总是慢慢地炖肉。
Translation: She always stews meat slowly.
§ Prepositions with 炖肉
When you're talking about *how* or *with what* the meat is stewed, you'll use prepositions like 用 (yòng - to use/with) or with other verbs to describe the cooking process more fully.
我用高压锅炖肉。
This translates to: I stew meat using a pressure cooker.
你可以和土豆一起炖肉。
Meaning: You can stew meat with potatoes.
§ Common Phrases and Usage
炖了很久的肉 (dùn le hěn jiǔ de ròu): meat that has been stewed for a long time. This emphasizes the duration.
这盘是炖了很久的肉，非常软烂。
This dish is meat stewed for a long time, very tender.
把肉炖烂 (bǎ ròu dùn làn): to stew the meat until it's tender/soft. The '烂' (làn) here means soft or mushy, indicating the desired outcome of stewing.
你需要多加水，把肉炖烂。
You need to add more water to stew the meat until it's tender.
Using 炖肉 is pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. Just remember to put the subject first, then 炖肉, and then the specific type of meat if you're not just saying 'meat' in general. Practice these examples and you'll be stewing like a pro in no time!
§ What '炖肉' means
- Chinese Word
- 炖肉 (dùn ròu)
- Definition
- to stew meat
- CEFR Level
- A2
When you hear '炖肉' in Chinese, it refers specifically to the cooking method of stewing meat. It's a common and traditional way to prepare various meat dishes, making them tender and flavorful. You'll often find this word used in conversations about cooking, recipes, or ordering food.
§ Where you actually hear this word
You'll mostly hear '炖肉' in everyday conversations, especially in domestic settings, restaurants, or when discussing food. It's not typically a word you'd encounter in a formal work or school environment, unless the topic specifically shifts to culinary arts or food preparation.
§ In the kitchen and at home
This is by far the most common place to hear '炖肉'. Chinese home cooking heavily features stewed dishes due to their deliciousness and the way they tenderize meat. You might hear family members discussing what to cook for dinner, or a parent telling a child about the process.
妈妈今天想炖肉吃。
Mom wants to stew meat for dinner today.
这块排骨很适合用来炖肉。
This piece of spare rib is very suitable for stewing meat.
§ In restaurants and while ordering food
When you're at a Chinese restaurant, especially one serving home-style cooking, you'll see '炖肉' on the menu or hear staff talking about it. It's a common description for various dishes.
On the menu: Look for dishes like '红烧肉' (hóngshāo ròu - braised pork, often stewed), '土豆炖牛肉' (tǔdòu dùn niúròu - potato stewed with beef), or just a general '炖肉' dish where the type of meat might vary daily.
Asking for recommendations: If you want a tender meat dish, you might ask the waiter:
你们这里有什么好吃的炖肉吗？
Do you have any delicious stewed meat here?
§ In cooking shows or recipe discussions
If you're watching a Chinese cooking show or following a recipe, '炖肉' will come up frequently. The chef or recipe will instruct you to '炖' the meat for a certain amount of time.
这道菜需要小火慢炖肉一个小时。
This dish requires stewing the meat over low heat for an hour.
先将肉焯水，然后就可以开始炖肉了。
First blanch the meat, then you can start stewing it.
§ Other contexts
While less common, you might occasionally hear '炖肉' in contexts related to agriculture or food production if the conversation shifts to how meat is prepared for consumption. However, these instances are rare compared to its use in a culinary context. For practical purposes, focus on its use in everyday life, especially around food and cooking.
When learning Chinese, some words seem simple but can be tricky. 炖肉 (dùn ròu) is one of them. While it literally means 'to stew meat,' English speakers often make a few common mistakes. Let's fix them.
§ Mistake 1: Using 炖肉 for all 'cooking meat' situations
Many learners mistakenly use 炖肉 for any method of cooking meat, like frying or roasting. Remember, 炖 (dùn) specifically means 'to stew' or 'to braise.' It involves cooking in liquid over low heat for a long time.
- DEFINITION
- 炖肉 (dùn ròu): to stew meat. This cooking method is slow and in liquid.
妈妈喜欢在冬天炖肉。 (Māmā xǐhuān zài dōngtiān dùn ròu.) - Mom likes to stew meat in winter.
If you want to say 'fry meat,' you should use 炒肉 (chǎo ròu). For 'roast meat,' it's 烤肉 (kǎo ròu).
§ Mistake 2: Confusing 炖 with 煮 (zhǔ)
Another common mistake is to use 炖 (dùn) interchangeably with 煮 (zhǔ), which means 'to boil.' While both involve cooking in liquid, they are not the same.
- 煮 (zhǔ): to boil, usually for a shorter time, and the food is cooked through boiling. Think boiling water for noodles or eggs.
- 炖 (dùn): to stew/braise, a longer cooking process, often to make the meat tender and flavorful, and to create a rich broth.
- DEFINITION
- 煮 (zhǔ): to boil. Quick cooking in hot liquid.
请帮我煮一些面条。 (Qǐng bāng wǒ zhǔ yīxiē miàntiáo.) - Please help me boil some noodles.
You wouldn't say 炖面条 (dùn miàntiáo) because noodles are boiled, not stewed. Similarly, you wouldn't typically 煮肉 (zhǔ ròu) if you want a tender, flavorful stew; you would 炖肉 (dùn ròu).
§ Mistake 3: Overlooking the 'meat' part in 炖肉
While 炖 (dùn) can be used with other ingredients, 炖肉 (dùn ròu) specifically refers to stewing meat. If you are stewing vegetables, you would say 炖菜 (dùn cài). If you're stewing chicken, it's 炖鸡 (dùn jī).
- DEFINITION
- 肉 (ròu): meat. This is a general term for meat.
这个餐馆的炖肉很有名。 (Zhège cānguǎn de dùn ròu hěn yǒumíng.) - This restaurant's stewed meat is very famous.
When you say 炖肉, you are implying a general type of meat (like pork or beef, depending on context). If you want to be specific, add the type of meat before 炖. For example, 红烧肉 (hóngshāo ròu) is 'braised pork belly,' a very specific type of stewed meat.
By understanding these distinctions, you'll use 炖肉 much more accurately and sound more natural in your Chinese conversations about cooking. Keep practicing, and you'll get there!
§ Understanding "炖肉" (dùn ròu)
"炖肉" (dùn ròu) specifically means "to stew meat." It's a common cooking method in Chinese cuisine where meat is cooked slowly in liquid, often with vegetables and seasonings, until it's tender and flavorful. Think of it as braising or slow cooking.
- DEFINITION
- to stew meat
妈妈喜欢炖肉，味道很好。
Translation hint: Mom likes to stew meat, it tastes very good.
今天晚上我们吃炖肉。
Translation hint: We're eating stewed meat tonight.
§ Similar Words and Their Usage
While "炖肉" is straightforward, there are other cooking verbs that might seem similar but have distinct meanings. Let's break them down:
煮 (zhǔ) - to boil; to cook in water
"煮" is a very general term for cooking something in water. It can be fast or slow, and it doesn't imply the tenderness or rich flavor associated with stewing. You can boil vegetables, noodles, eggs, or even meat, but if you just "煮肉" (zhǔ ròu), it often means simply boiling it, which might not be as flavorful as stewing.
我喜欢煮面条。
Translation hint: I like to boil noodles.
烧 (shāo) - to burn; to cook (by stewing, braising, or roasting)
"烧" is a bit more complex as it can refer to several cooking methods, including stewing, braising, and even roasting. When used for meat, "烧肉" (shāo ròu) often implies a more intensive cooking process than just boiling, usually with a sauce, resulting in a richer flavor and often a caramelized exterior. It's often used for dishes like "红烧肉" (hóngshāoròu - red-braised pork), which is a famous, flavorful dish. While both "炖肉" and "烧肉" involve cooking in liquid, "烧肉" often emphasizes the reduction of the sauce and a more intense flavor profile.
他会做美味的红烧肉。
Translation hint: He can make delicious red-braised pork.
焖 (mèn) - to braise; to stew (with less liquid, covered)
"焖" is very close to "炖" but typically involves cooking food with less liquid, or even just its own juices, in a covered pot. The emphasis is on cooking slowly and thoroughly, often resulting in very tender food. "焖饭" (mèn fàn) is a common dish where rice and other ingredients are cooked together in a sealed pot. For meat, "焖肉" (mèn ròu) would suggest a similar slow-cooking process, often leading to a rich, concentrated flavor. The main difference from "炖" is often the amount of liquid involved; "炖" generally uses more.
这道菜需要焖一个小时。
Translation hint: This dish needs to braise for an hour.
煨 (wēi) - to simmer slowly; to stew gently
"煨" is similar to "炖" but often implies an even slower and gentler cooking process, typically over a very low heat for a long time. The goal is to extract maximum flavor and tenderness without vigorous boiling. It's often used for soups and broths where clarity and a deep, mellow flavor are desired. "煨汤" (wēi tāng) is a common phrase for making slow-simmered soup.
她喜欢用砂锅煨汤。
Translation hint: She likes to simmer soup in a clay pot.
§ When to Choose "炖肉"
Use "炖肉" when you want to describe the specific act of stewing meat slowly in a considerable amount of liquid to make it very tender and infused with flavor. It implies a comforting, home-style dish where the meat breaks down easily.
Here's a quick summary:
- 炖 (dùn): Slow cooking in a good amount of liquid until very tender. Good for rich, comforting stews.
- 煮 (zhǔ): General boiling, often quicker, can be for various foods.
- 烧 (shāo): Braising/stewing with a focus on rich sauces, often reduced, and intense flavor.
- 焖 (mèn): Braising/stewing with less liquid, covered, emphasizing thorough cooking and concentrated flavor.
- 煨 (wēi): Very slow, gentle simmering, often for soups and broths, for clarity and mellow flavors.
How Formal Is It?
"这家餐厅的特色菜是炖煮肉类，口感鲜美。"
"我妈妈最喜欢做炖肉，味道很好。"
"今天晚上我们吃烩肉怎么样？"
"宝宝，你想吃香香的煮肉肉吗？"
"哥们儿，晚上去我家焖肉喝酒啊！"
Fun Fact
The character 炖 (dùn) has a 'fire' radical (火) on the left, indicating cooking with heat, and a phonetic component '屯' (tún). This combination visually suggests a cooking process involving heat, which is perfectly aligned with the meaning of stewing.
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing the 'u' in 炖 (dùn) as 'oo' instead of a rounded 'u' sound.
- Not differentiating the tones correctly for both characters.
Grammar to Know
The character 炖 (dùn) specifically refers to stewing or simmering food over a long period of time, usually with liquid.
我喜欢吃妈妈炖的肉。 (Wǒ xǐhuān chī māma dùn de ròu.) - I like to eat the meat my mother stews.
肉 (ròu) is a general term for meat. When combined with 炖, it specifies the action of stewing meat.
他正在厨房炖肉。 (Tā zhèngzài chúfáng dùnròu.) - He is stewing meat in the kitchen.
炖肉 can be used as a verb-object phrase. The object (肉) follows the verb (炖).
今天晚餐我们炖肉吃。 (Jīntiān wǎncān wǒmen dùnròu chī.) - We will stew meat for dinner tonight.
You can specify the type of meat being stewed by placing the type of meat before 肉. For example, 炖牛肉 (dùn niúròu - stew beef) or 炖排骨 (dùn páigǔ - stew ribs).
我想炖牛肉。 (Wǒ xiǎng dùn niúròu.) - I want to stew beef.
The phrase can be used in both present and past tense contexts, often with time indicators.
昨天我炖肉了。 (Zuótiān wǒ dùnròu le.) - I stewed meat yesterday.
Examples by Level
我喜欢炖肉。
I like to stew meat.
Simple statement of preference.
妈妈今天炖肉。
Mom stews meat today.
Subject-verb-object structure.
他会炖肉吗？
Can he stew meat?
Using '会' (can) to ask about ability.
我们一起炖肉吧。
Let's stew meat together.
'一起' (together) and '吧' (suggestion particle).
这个肉可以炖。
This meat can be stewed.
Using '可以' (can) to indicate possibility.
你想炖肉吗？
Do you want to stew meat?
Asking a 'yes/no' question with '吗'.
炖肉很好吃。
Stewed meat is delicious.
Describing the result of stewing meat.
她不喜欢炖肉。
She doesn't like to stew meat.
Using '不喜欢' (dislike) to state a negative preference.
我妈妈喜欢炖肉。
My mother likes to stew meat.
炖肉很费时间。
Stewing meat takes a lot of time.
你炖肉了吗？
Did you stew meat?
我们今天晚上炖肉吃。
We will eat stewed meat tonight.
她正在厨房里炖肉。
She is stewing meat in the kitchen.
炖肉的味道真香！
The stewed meat smells so good!
你会炖肉吗？
Can you stew meat?
这个周末我们一起炖肉吧。
Let's stew meat together this weekend.
我妈妈最擅长炖肉，她的红烧肉总是一抢而空。
My mother is best at stewing meat, her braised pork is always snapped up.
最擅长 (zuì shàncháng) means 'to be best at something'; 一抢而空 (yī qiǎng ér kōng) means 'to be snapped up immediately'.
冬天的时候，炖一锅热乎乎的肉是件很幸福的事情。
In winter, stewing a pot of hot meat is a very happy thing.
热乎乎的 (rèhūhū de) means 'piping hot'.
这家餐厅的特色菜就是秘制炖肉，味道非常好。
The specialty dish of this restaurant is their secret recipe stewed meat, it tastes very good.
秘制 (mìzhì) means 'secretly made' or 'secret recipe'.
奶奶每次都会给我炖肉吃，所以我很喜欢回老家。
Grandma always stews meat for me to eat every time, so I really like going back to my hometown.
每次都 (měicì dōu) means 'every time'.
炖肉需要一定的时间和耐心，不能急。
Stewing meat requires a certain amount of time and patience, you can't rush it.
一定的时间 (yīdìng de shíjiān) means 'a certain amount of time'; 不能急 (bù néng jí) means 'can't be in a hurry'.
他尝试着用不同的香料炖肉，希望能做出更美味的菜肴。
He tried stewing meat with different spices, hoping to make more delicious dishes.
尝试用 (chángshì yòng) means 'to try using'; 香料 (xiāngliào) means 'spices'.
炖肉的时候，火候的掌握非常关键。
When stewing meat, mastering the heat is very crucial.
火候 (huǒhòu) refers to the control of heat in cooking; 掌握 (zhǎngwò) means 'to master'.
她学着食谱上的方法炖肉，虽然是第一次做，但味道还不错。
She learned to stew meat according to the recipe, even though it was her first time making it, the taste was still good.
食谱 (shípǔ) means 'recipe'; 味道还不错 (wèidào hái bùcuò) means 'the taste is not bad'.
我妈妈最擅长炖肉，她的红烧肉总是一抢而空。
My mother is best at stewing meat, her braised pork is always snapped up.
他花了三个小时炖肉，只为给妻子一个惊喜。
He spent three hours stewing meat, just to surprise his wife.
这道菜的秘诀在于小火慢炖肉，这样才能入味。
The secret to this dish is to slow stew the meat over low heat, so it can absorb the flavor.
冬天的时候，没有什么比一锅热腾腾的炖肉更温暖了。
In winter, nothing is warmer than a pot of hot stewed meat.
为了健康，我尽量选择瘦肉来炖肉。
For health, I try to choose lean meat to stew.
奶奶说，炖肉的时候加一点山楂，肉会更容易软烂。
Grandma said that adding a little hawthorn when stewing meat will make the meat softer and more tender.
这家餐厅的招牌菜是炖肉，每天都吸引很多食客。
The signature dish of this restaurant is stewed meat, which attracts many diners every day.
我正在学着自己炖肉，希望有一天能做出妈妈的味道。
I am learning to stew meat myself, hoping one day I can make my mother's taste.
我妈妈炖的肉总是那么入味，软烂适中。
My mom's stewed meat is always so flavorful and perfectly tender.
周末在家，我喜欢炖肉，香气弥漫整个屋子。
On weekends, I like to stew meat, and the aroma fills the whole house.
这道菜的秘诀在于小火慢炖，让肉充分吸收汤汁。
The secret to this dish is to simmer the meat over low heat, allowing it to fully absorb the broth.
奶奶常说，炖肉的时候要放些姜片和料酒去腥增香。
Grandma often said that when stewing meat, you should add some ginger slices and cooking wine to remove the gamey smell and enhance the aroma.
虽然炖肉费时，但成果总是令人满意。
Although stewing meat is time-consuming, the results are always satisfying.
在寒冷的冬天，一碗热腾腾的炖肉是最好的慰藉。
In the cold winter, a bowl of hot stewed meat is the best comfort.
他尝试用不同的香料炖肉，希望能做出独特的风味。
He tried stewing meat with different spices, hoping to create a unique flavor.
我不太会炖肉，每次做出来都感觉差点火候。
I'm not very good at stewing meat; every time I make it, I feel like it's not quite cooked enough.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
这道菜炖肉炖得很烂。
This dish's stewed meat is very tender.
妈妈喜欢炖肉给我吃。
Mom likes to stew meat for me to eat.
炖肉需要多长时间？
How long does it take to stew meat?
我今天想炖肉吃。
I want to eat stewed meat today.
炖肉的味道真好。
The stewed meat tastes really good.
你会炖肉吗？
Can you stew meat?
用高压锅炖肉更快。
It's faster to stew meat in a pressure cooker.
炖肉要放什么调料？
What seasonings should I put in the stewed meat?
这锅炖肉已经炖了两个小时了。
This pot of stewed meat has been stewing for two hours.
冬天吃炖肉很舒服。
Eating stewed meat in winter is very comforting.
Often Confused With
This is a specific dish, 'red-braised pork,' which uses a braising method, often confused with general 'stewing' but has a distinct flavor and appearance.
This specifies 'clear stew,' indicating a lighter, less heavily seasoned stew, which is a type of stewing but with a particular style.
While '炖' is used, this specifically refers to stewing to make soup, not just stewing meat as the primary dish.
Grammar Patterns
Idioms & Expressions
"入乡随俗 (rù xiāng suí sú)"
When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
到了中国，我们应该入乡随俗，尝试当地的食物。
neutral"一举两得 (yī jǔ liǎng dé)"
Kill two birds with one stone.
骑自行车上班，既锻炼身体又环保，真是一举两得。
neutral"半途而废 (bàn tú ér fèi)"
Give up halfway; abandon something unfinished.
学习中文需要坚持，不能半途而废。
neutral"马马虎虎 (mǎ mǎ hǔ hǔ)"
So-so; careless; just getting by.
他中文说得马马虎虎，能听懂一点点。
informal"津津有味 (jīn jīn yǒu wèi)"
With great relish; to eat/read with gusto.
孩子们津津有味地听着老师讲故事。
neutral"画蛇添足 (huà shé tiān zú)"
Draw a snake and add feet to it; ruin the effect by adding something superfluous.
这个设计已经很完美了，再加东西就是画蛇添足。
neutral"对牛弹琴 (duì niú tán qín)"
Play the lute to a cow; to talk over someone's head; to offer something fine to an unappreciative audience.
跟不懂艺术的人谈论画展，简直是对牛弹琴。
neutral"心血来潮 (xīn xuè lái cháo)"
On a whim; spur of the moment.
我心血来潮，决定去海边玩一天。
neutral"七嘴八舌 (qī zuǐ bā shé)"
All talking at once; a cacophony of voices.
大家七嘴八舌地讨论着旅行计划。
neutral"左右为难 (zuǒ yòu wéi nán)"
In a dilemma; caught between a rock and a hard place.
他不知道该选哪份工作，左右为难。
neutralEasily Confused
This word can be confusing because it's both a verb (to stew meat) and a noun (stewed meat). However, when used as a verb, it implies the action of stewing.
As a verb, 炖肉 describes the process of cooking meat by stewing. As a noun, it refers to the dish itself, stewed meat. The context usually makes it clear which meaning is intended.
我妈妈喜欢炖肉吃。 (Wǒ māma xǐhuān dùnròu chī.) - My mom likes to eat stewed meat. (Here it's a noun, referring to the dish.) / 妈妈在厨房炖肉。 (Māma zài chúfáng dùnròu.) - Mom is stewing meat in the kitchen. (Here it's a verb, describing the action.)
Both 炖肉 and 烧肉 involve cooking meat, but the cooking methods are distinct.
炖肉 (dùnròu) specifically means to stew meat, which involves slow cooking in liquid. 烧肉 (shāoròu) is a more general term for roasting or braising meat, often resulting in a more caramelized or crispy exterior.
他想吃烧肉，而不是炖肉。 (Tā xiǎng chī shāoròu, ér búshì dùnròu.) - He wants to eat roasted/braised meat, not stewed meat.
Both 炖肉 and 煮肉 involve cooking meat in liquid, but the duration and desired outcome differ.
炖肉 (dùnròu) implies a long, slow cooking process to make the meat very tender and flavorful, often with a rich broth. 煮肉 (zhǔròu) is a more general term for boiling meat, which can be for a shorter duration and might not result in the same tenderness or depth of flavor.
这块肉炖了三个小时才软。 (Zhè kuài ròu dùnle sān gè xiǎoshí cái ruǎn.) - This piece of meat was stewed for three hours before it became soft. / 我们今天煮肉汤。 (Wǒmen jīntiān zhǔròutāng.) - We are boiling meat to make soup today.
Both 炖肉 and 焖肉 involve slow cooking in a sealed environment, but there's a subtle difference in the amount of liquid used and the final texture.
炖肉 (dùnròu) typically uses more liquid and aims for a soft, fall-apart texture with a saucy consistency. 焖肉 (mēnròu) often uses less liquid, and while the meat is tender, it might have a slightly drier, more concentrated flavor, often 'braised' rather than fully 'stewed'.
这道菜是用小火焖肉做成的。 (Zhè dào cài shì yòng xiǎohuǒ mēnròu zuòchéng de.) - This dish is made by braising meat over low heat. / 奶奶做的炖肉总是那么香。 (Nǎinai zuò de dùnròu zǒng shì nàme xiāng.) - Grandma's stewed meat is always so fragrant.
Both 炖肉 and 卤肉 involve cooking meat in liquid, but the flavor profile and purpose are different.
炖肉 (dùnròu) focuses on tenderizing the meat and creating a rich broth, often seasoned simply. 卤肉 (lǔròu) involves cooking meat in a highly seasoned 'master sauce' (卤水 lǔshuǐ) to infuse it with specific aromatic flavors, often for cold cuts or served with rice.
他最爱吃妈妈做的卤肉饭。 (Tā zuì ài chī māma zuò de lǔròu fàn.) - He loves his mom's braised pork rice the most. / 我们周末会炖肉吃。 (Wǒmen zhōumò huì dùnròu chī.) - We will stew meat to eat on the weekend.
Sentence Patterns
我喜欢炖肉。
I like to stew meat.
妈妈会炖肉。
Mom can stew meat.
今天晚上我们炖肉吧。
Let's stew meat tonight.
他想学炖肉。
He wants to learn how to stew meat.
炖肉需要多长时间？
How long does it take to stew meat?
她炖的肉很好吃。
The meat she stewed is delicious.
为了炖肉，我准备了各种香料。
To stew the meat, I prepared various spices.
炖肉的时候，火候很重要。
When stewing meat, the heat control is very important.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
How to Use It
Use 炖肉 (dùn ròu) to describe the action of stewing meat. It’s a common cooking method in Chinese cuisine. You can use it like this: 我喜欢炖肉吃。 (Wǒ xǐhuān dùn ròu chī.) - I like to eat stewed meat. Or: 她正在炖肉。 (Tā zhèngzài dùn ròu.) - She is stewing meat.
A common mistake is confusing 炖肉 (dùn ròu) with other cooking methods. While stewing is a type of cooking, it's specific. Don’t use it for general cooking (做饭, zuò fàn) or frying (炒, chǎo). Also, remember that 炖肉 refers to the *action* of stewing meat, not the stewed meat dish itself (which can be called 炖肉 or something more specific like 红烧肉, hóngshāoròu - braised pork).
Tips
Basic Meaning of 炖肉
The most straightforward meaning of 炖肉 (dùn ròu) is to stew meat. It's a common cooking method in Chinese cuisine.
Breaking Down the Characters
炖 (dùn) means to stew or simmer. 肉 (ròu) means meat. Putting them together literally means 'stew meat'.
Common Usage: A Verb
炖肉 is typically used as a verb phrase, describing the action of stewing meat. For example, 'I am stewing meat for dinner' would be 我在炖肉做晚饭 (wǒ zài dùn ròu zuò wǎnfàn).
Can Also Be a Noun
While primarily a verb, 炖肉 can also refer to the stewed meat dish itself. For example, 'This stewed meat is delicious' would be 这个炖肉很好吃 (zhè ge dùn ròu hěn hǎo chī).
Popular Dish: 东北炖肉
A famous type of stewed meat dish is 东北炖肉 (Dōngběi dùn ròu), or Northeastern Chinese stewed meat. It often includes pork, potatoes, and other vegetables.
Other 'Stew' Words
While 炖 specifically refers to stewing with liquid, don't confuse it with 炒 (chǎo) for stir-frying or 烤 (kǎo) for roasting.
Using '把' with 炖肉
When you want to emphasize the object being stewed, you can use the '把' (bǎ) structure: 我把肉炖了 (wǒ bǎ ròu dùn le), meaning 'I stewed the meat'.
Practice with Recipes
A great way to learn 炖肉 is to look at Chinese recipes. You'll see it used in practical cooking instructions. Try searching for '炖肉 菜谱' (dùn ròu càipǔ) meaning 'stewed meat recipes'.
Verbs for Cooking
Memorizing common cooking verbs like 炖 (dùn - stew), 炒 (chǎo - stir-fry), 煮 (zhǔ - boil), and 蒸 (zhēng - steam) will greatly expand your food vocabulary.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a chef in a 'dun'ce cap, 'dun'king meat into a pot to stew it. 'Dun' is similar to the first sound in 炖.
Visual Association
Picture a steaming pot of delicious stewed meat. Visualize the Chinese characters 炖肉 above it, perhaps with steam rising from the characters themselves.
Word Web
Challenge
Describe your favorite kind of stew in Chinese. For example, '我喜欢炖牛肉' (Wǒ xǐhuān dùn niúròu - I like to stew beef) or '我妈妈炖的肉很好吃' (Wǒ māma dùn de ròu hěn hǎochī - The meat my mom stews is very delicious).
Word Origin
Compound word: 炖 (dùn) + 肉 (ròu)
Original meaning: 炖 (dùn) means 'to stew, to simmer'. 肉 (ròu) means 'meat'.
Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic, MandarinCultural Context
When someone says 炖肉, they're referring to a common and comforting cooking method in China. It’s often used for dishes that are slow-cooked to make the meat very tender and flavorful, like pork belly stew or beef stew. This method is popular because it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and results in a rich, hearty meal, often served with rice.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Cooking a family meal:
- 今天晚上我想炖肉。
- 你喜欢炖什么肉？
- 这个炖肉很香。
Discussing recipes with friends:
- 你会炖排骨吗？
- 我有一个炖牛肉的好食谱。
- 炖肉要多长时间？
Ordering food at a restaurant:
- 你们有炖肉吗？
- 我想点一份炖肉。
- 这个炖肉是辣的吗？
Grocery shopping:
- 我需要买一些肉来炖。
- 今天炖肉用什么蔬菜？
- 这个肉适合炖吗？
Complimenting someone's cooking:
- 你炖的肉真好吃！
- 这个炖肉做得真好。
- 谢谢你的炖肉。
Conversation Starters
"你喜欢炖肉吗？ (Do you like stewed meat?)"
"你最喜欢炖什么肉？ (What kind of meat do you like to stew the most?)"
"你会炖肉吗？ (Can you stew meat?)"
"你觉得炖肉难不难？ (Do you think stewing meat is difficult or not difficult?)"
"你有没有什么好吃的炖肉食谱？ (Do you have any delicious stewed meat recipes?)"
Journal Prompts
描述你最喜欢的一道炖肉菜。 (Describe your favorite stewed meat dish.)
如果你要炖肉给朋友吃，你会选什么肉，怎么做？ (If you were going to stew meat for friends to eat, what meat would you choose and how would you make it?)
你觉得炖肉和烤肉有什么不同？ (What do you think is the difference between stewed meat and roasted meat?)
分享一个你学炖肉的经历。 (Share an experience you had learning to stew meat.)
写一个关于炖肉的小故事。 (Write a short story about stewed meat.)
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions炖肉 (dùn ròu) specifically refers to stewing, which involves cooking meat slowly in liquid over a long period. This differs from methods like frying (炒, chǎo), stir-frying (爆炒, bào chǎo), or roasting (烤, kǎo) which use dry heat or less liquid.
Yes, you can 炖肉 (dùn ròu) with various types of meat, such as pork (猪肉, zhūròu), beef (牛肉, niúròu), or chicken (鸡肉, jīròu). It's a versatile cooking method.
Generally, yes. 炖肉 (dùn ròu) often involves less oil compared to frying and the slow cooking can make the meat very tender and flavorful without needing much fat.
Many classic Chinese dishes use 炖肉 (dùn ròu). Think of dishes like 红烧肉 (hóngshāo ròu, braised pork belly) or various stews with vegetables.
The cooking time for 炖肉 (dùn ròu) can vary greatly depending on the type of meat and the size of the pieces, but it's typically an hour or more to achieve tender results.
Absolutely! A slow cooker is perfect for 炖肉 (dùn ròu) as it allows for long, slow cooking at a consistent temperature, which is ideal for stewing meat.
Common seasonings for 炖肉 (dùn ròu) include soy sauce (酱油, jiàngyóu), ginger (姜, jiāng), garlic (蒜, suàn), star anise (八角, bājiǎo), and cooking wine (料酒, liàojiǔ).
Yes, 炖肉 (dùn ròu) implies cooking in a significant amount of liquid, enough to cover or mostly cover the meat. This is what makes it a stewing method.
Yes, it's very common to add vegetables like carrots (胡萝卜, húluóbo), potatoes (土豆, tǔdòu), or daikon radish (白萝卜, bái luóbo) when you 炖肉 (dùn ròu).
A heavy-bottomed pot, like a Dutch oven or a clay pot, is ideal for 炖肉 (dùn ròu) because it distributes heat evenly and helps maintain a consistent temperature for slow cooking.
Test Yourself 162 questions
妈妈喜欢用高压锅___。
The sentence talks about 'mom liking to use a pressure cooker', and 'stewing meat' (炖肉) is a common use for a pressure cooker.
今天晚上我们吃___。
The sentence is about what 'we eat tonight', and 'stewed meat' (炖肉) is a common dish.
这道菜需要___三个小时。
The sentence implies a cooking process that takes 'three hours', and 'stewing meat' (炖肉) fits this duration.
我妈妈最会___。
The sentence says 'my mom is best at...', and 'stewing meat' (炖肉) is a common cooking skill a mom might excel at.
冬天吃___很暖和。
The sentence states 'eating...in winter is warm', and 'stewed meat' (炖肉) is a hearty, warming dish.
他喜欢用各种香料___。
The sentence talks about 'liking to use various spices', which is a common practice when 'stewing meat' (炖肉).
Which of these dishes is made by stewing?
红烧肉 is a classic stewed dish in Chinese cuisine, known for its slow cooking process.
What is 'stewing meat' in Chinese?
炖肉 specifically means to stew meat.
If you want to cook meat slowly in liquid, what cooking method would you use?
炖 (dùn) refers to the stewing cooking method, which involves slow cooking in liquid.
炖肉 (dùnròu) means to fry meat.
炖肉 (dùnròu) means to stew meat, not to fry it. Frying is 炒 (chǎo).
When you 炖肉 (dùnròu), the meat is cooked in a pot with liquid for a long time.
Stewing (炖) involves cooking food slowly in liquid for a long period.
I can 炖 (dùn) vegetables and meat together.
You can stew various ingredients together, including vegetables and meat, to make a flavorful dish.
My mom likes to stew meat.
Can you stew meat?
I want to eat stewed meat today.
Read this aloud:
我喜欢炖肉。
Focus: dun rou
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
他会炖肉吗？
Focus: ta hui dun rou ma
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
这肉炖得很好吃。
Focus: zhe rou dun de hen hao chi
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a short sentence about cooking meat for dinner.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我今晚炖肉吃。
Write a simple sentence describing what your mother often cooks.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我妈妈常炖肉。
Write a sentence asking if someone likes a certain dish, using the word for 'stew'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
你喜欢吃炖肉吗？
这篇文章说妈妈今天做了什么？
Read this passage:
今天妈妈炖肉，我很喜欢吃。这是我的最爱。
这篇文章说妈妈今天做了什么？
文章中提到 '今天妈妈炖肉'，所以正确答案是她炖肉了。
文章中提到 '今天妈妈炖肉'，所以正确答案是她炖肉了。
作者为什么炖肉？
Read this passage:
小狗喜欢吃肉。我常常给它炖肉。
作者为什么炖肉？
文章中明确说 '小狗喜欢吃肉。我常常给它炖肉。'
文章中明确说 '小狗喜欢吃肉。我常常给它炖肉。'
作者什么时候炖肉？
Read this passage:
周末我常在家里炖肉。这道菜很简单。
作者什么时候炖肉？
文章开头说 '周末我常在家里炖肉'。
文章开头说 '周末我常在家里炖肉'。
This sentence means 'Mom likes to stew meat.' The standard Chinese sentence structure is Subject-Verb-Object.
This sentence means 'I want to stew meat today.' The time word '今天' (today) usually comes after the subject and before the verb.
This sentence means 'He doesn't know how to stew meat.' '不会' (bù huì) is used to express not knowing how to do something.
妈妈喜欢用砂锅___。
妈妈喜欢用砂锅炖肉 (māmā xǐhuan yòng shāguō dùnròu). '炖肉' (dùnròu) means 'to stew meat', which fits the context of cooking with a clay pot (砂锅 shāguō).
这道菜需要长时间___才能入味。
这道菜需要长时间炖肉才能入味 (zhè dào cài xūyào cháng shíjiān dùnròu cáinéng rùwèi). '炖肉' (dùnròu) implies cooking for a long time to absorb flavors, which makes sense for the sentence.
周末我常在家___。
周末我常在家炖肉 (zhōumò wǒ cháng zàijiā dùnròu). It means 'I often stew meat at home on weekends', which is a common activity.
他想学做一道美味的___。
他想学做一道美味的炖肉 (tā xiǎng xué zuò yī dào měiwèi de dùnròu). '炖肉' (dùnròu) fits the context of learning to cook a delicious dish.
冬天吃热腾腾的___很舒服。
冬天吃热腾腾的炖肉很舒服 (dōngtiān chī rètēngtēng de dùnròu hěn shūfú). '炖肉' (dùnròu) is a warm, comforting dish often eaten in winter.
奶奶最拿手的就是___。
奶奶最拿手的就是炖肉 (nǎinai zuì náshǒu de jiùshì dùnròu). It means 'Grandma is best at stewing meat', which is a common and appropriate skill for grandmothers.
Which of these dishes involves '炖肉'?
红烧肉 is a classic dish where pork is stewed.
What is the primary action of '炖肉'?
炖 (dùn) specifically means to stew something, usually slowly and in liquid.
My mom likes to ___ chicken soup. (我的妈妈喜欢 ___ 鸡汤。)
To make chicken soup, you typically stew the chicken.
You can '炖肉' in just a few minutes.
Stewing meat generally takes a longer time to make it tender.
'炖肉' usually results in very dry meat.
Stewing involves cooking in liquid, which helps keep the meat moist and tender.
A common way to cook beef in China is to '炖肉'.
Many traditional Chinese beef dishes involve stewing, like '炖牛肉' (stewed beef).
My mom likes to stew meat.
We are stewing meat for dinner tonight.
This weekend, I plan to stew meat.
Read this aloud:
我喜欢吃炖肉。
Focus: dùn ròu
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
你会炖肉吗？
Focus: huì dùn ròu ma
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
炖肉很好吃。
Focus: dùn ròu hěn hǎo chī
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
You want to cook stewed meat for dinner. How would you tell your friend you are going to stew meat tonight?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我今晚要炖肉。
Your mom made delicious stewed meat. Write a sentence saying, 'Mom's stewed meat is very delicious.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
妈妈炖的肉很好吃。
You are at a restaurant and want to ask if they have stewed meat. Write a question asking, 'Do you have stewed meat here?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
这里有炖肉吗？
妈妈炖的肉怎么样？
Read this passage:
妈妈喜欢炖肉。她炖的肉很香，我每次都吃很多。今天，她又炖了肉，我很开心。
妈妈炖的肉怎么样？
文章中说“她炖的肉很香”。
文章中说“她炖的肉很香”。
我的朋友为什么经常去饭店吃饭？
Read this passage:
我的朋友不会炖肉，所以她经常去饭店吃。她最喜欢吃那家饭店的炖牛肉。
我的朋友为什么经常去饭店吃饭？
文章中说“我的朋友不会炖肉”。
文章中说“我的朋友不会炖肉”。
小明现在想学做什么？
Read this passage:
小明想学做饭。他先学会了炒菜，现在想学炖肉。他买了很多肉和调料，准备明天开始学习。
小明现在想学做什么？
文章中说“现在想学炖肉”。
文章中说“现在想学炖肉”。
This sentence means 'Mom likes to stew meat.' The subject '妈妈' comes first, followed by the verb '喜欢' and the object '炖肉'.
This sentence means 'I stewed beef yesterday.' The subject '我' comes first, followed by the time word '昨天', the verb '炖了' (with past tense marker '了'), and the object '牛肉'.
This sentence means 'Can he stew ribs?' The subject '他' comes first, followed by the modal verb '会', the verb '炖', the object '排骨', and the question particle '吗'.
妈妈喜欢用慢炖锅___鸡肉。
Context indicates cooking method for chicken in a slow cooker, so 'stew' (炖) is the most appropriate verb.
这道菜需要___三个小时才能入味。
The phrase '三个小时才能入味' (takes three hours to absorb the flavor) strongly suggests a slow cooking method like stewing (炖).
为了让牛肉更软，我决定___它。
To make beef tender ('更软'), stewing (炖) is a common and effective cooking method.
冬天吃一碗热腾腾的___排骨，感觉真好。
In winter, a hot bowl of 'stewed ribs' (炖排骨) is a common and comforting dish.
她正在厨房里___了一大锅猪肉。
The quantity '一大锅' (a large pot) often implies a slower, larger-scale cooking method like stewing (炖).
这个食谱建议将蔬菜和肉一起___。
When cooking vegetables and meat together, stewing (炖) is a common method to combine flavors.
Choose the correct way to say 'stewed chicken' in Chinese.
炖 (dùn) means 'to stew', so 炖鸡肉 (dùn jīròu) is 'stewed chicken'.
Which sentence correctly uses '炖肉'?
炖肉 (dùn ròu) is a dish you eat, so '吃 (chī)' (to eat) is the correct verb to use with it.
If someone says '这块肉炖得真好吃！' (Zhè kuài ròu dùn de zhēn hǎochī!), what do they mean?
炖 (dùn) specifically means 'to stew'.
你可以用'炖肉'来形容快速烹饪的肉。 (Nǐ kěyǐ yòng 'dùn ròu' lái xíngróng kuàisù pēngrèn de ròu.) - You can use '炖肉' to describe quickly cooked meat.
炖肉 (dùn ròu) implies a slow cooking method for tenderizing meat, not a quick one.
'炖'通常用于烹饪蔬菜。 ('Dùn' tōngcháng yòng yú pēngrèn shūcài.) - 'Stew' is usually used for cooking vegetables.
While vegetables can be part of a stew, '炖' primarily refers to the slow cooking of meat or meat-based dishes.
炖肉的时候通常会加入一些汤汁。 (Dùn ròu de shíhou tōngcháng huì jiārù yīxiē tāngzhī.) - When stewing meat, some broth is usually added.
Stewing typically involves cooking in liquid, such as broth or water, to keep the meat moist and tender.
You're at a Chinese friend's house for dinner. Describe what they are cooking if they are stewing pork with potatoes. Include both 'stewing meat' and 'pork with potatoes'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我的朋友正在炖土豆猪肉。 (My friend is stewing pork with potatoes.)
Imagine you are explaining a Chinese dish to an English-speaking friend. How would you describe a dish where beef is slowly cooked in a broth until tender? Use the word for 'stew meat'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
这道菜是用牛肉炖的，味道很好。 (This dish is made with stewed beef, it tastes very good.)
You are making a shopping list for dinner. You want to stew chicken with mushrooms. Write down what you need to buy, specifically mentioning the action of 'stewing meat' and the ingredients.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我需要买鸡肉和蘑菇来炖肉。 (I need to buy chicken and mushrooms to stew meat.)
What kind of meat does Mom like to stew?
Read this passage:
妈妈喜欢炖排骨。炖排骨需要很长时间，但是味道非常好。她通常会加入一些玉米和胡萝卜。 (Mom likes to stew ribs. Stewing ribs takes a long time, but it tastes very good. She usually adds some corn and carrots.)
What kind of meat does Mom like to stew?
The passage explicitly states '妈妈喜欢炖排骨' (Mom likes to stew ribs).
The passage explicitly states '妈妈喜欢炖排骨' (Mom likes to stew ribs).
Why is the beef very tender?
Read this passage:
今天晚餐我们吃炖牛肉。这道菜是奶奶做的，她炖了三个小时，所以牛肉很软。 (Tonight for dinner we are eating stewed beef. This dish was made by grandma, she stewed it for three hours, so the beef is very tender.)
Why is the beef very tender?
The passage states '她炖了三个小时，所以牛肉很软' (she stewed it for three hours, so the beef is very tender).
The passage states '她炖了三个小时，所以牛肉很软' (she stewed it for three hours, so the beef is very tender).
What is Xiao Wang's preference for cooking fish?
Read this passage:
小王不喜欢炖鱼，他觉得鱼炖出来不好吃。他更喜欢烤鱼或者清蒸鱼。 (Xiao Wang doesn't like to stew fish, he thinks stewed fish doesn't taste good. He prefers grilled fish or steamed fish.)
What is Xiao Wang's preference for cooking fish?
The passage clearly says '他更喜欢烤鱼或者清蒸鱼' (He prefers grilled fish or steamed fish).
The passage clearly says '他更喜欢烤鱼或者清蒸鱼' (He prefers grilled fish or steamed fish).
This sentence means 'Mom likes to stew meat to eat.' The typical Chinese sentence structure is Subject + Verb + Object. Here, '妈妈' (Mom) is the subject, '喜欢' (likes) is the verb, and '炖肉吃' (to stew meat to eat) is the object phrase.
This sentence asks 'Can you stew meat?' '你' (you) is the subject, '会' (can/know how to) is an auxiliary verb, '炖肉' (stew meat) is the main action, and '吗' is a question particle.
This means 'I want to stew beef today.' '我' (I) is the subject, '今天' (today) is a time expression, '想' (want to) is an auxiliary verb, '炖' (stew) is the verb, and '牛肉' (beef) is the object.
她喜欢用慢火把牛肉____得烂烂的。
To make the beef very tender through slow cooking, '炖' (to stew) is the most appropriate verb. '煮' means to boil, '蒸' means to steam, and '炒' means to stir-fry, none of which fit the context of '烂烂的' (very tender).
这个季节最适合____一锅羊肉，暖和又滋补。
Given the context of '暖和又滋补' (warm and nourishing), '炖' (to stew) is the best method for preparing lamb, which is often slow-cooked in a pot. '烤' means to roast, '炸' means to deep-fry, and '煎' means to pan-fry.
为了让肉更入味，妈妈总是提前一晚把五花肉____好。
Although '腌' (to marinate) helps with flavor, the action of preparing the pork belly overnight to make it flavorful and tender usually involves slow cooking or stewing. '炖' is the most suitable method here for achieving deep flavor and tenderness. '切' means to cut, and '焯' means to blanch.
她擅长____各种传统菜肴，尤其是红烧肉。
Red braised pork (红烧肉) is a classic dish that involves stewing the meat until it's tender and flavorful. Therefore, '炖' (to stew) is the correct verb. '煮' is to boil, '炒' is to stir-fry, and '炸' is to deep-fry.
奶奶用小火____了四个小时的排骨，骨肉分离。
Cooking ribs for four hours over low heat to make the meat fall off the bone is characteristic of stewing. '炖' (to stew) fits this description perfectly. '煮' is to boil, '烧' can mean to cook or braise but '炖' is more precise for this long, slow cooking process, and '蒸' is to steam.
想吃软糯的猪蹄，最好用砂锅____。
To achieve soft and glutinous pig trotters, using a clay pot for stewing ('炖') is the ideal method. '炒' is to stir-fry, '烤' is to roast, and '煮' is to boil, none of which will yield the desired soft and glutinous texture as effectively as stewing.
以下哪道菜最不可能用'炖肉'来形容？
清蒸鱼 (steamed fish) 是蒸而不是炖。
当你'炖肉'时，通常会用到以下哪种烹饪方法？
炖肉需要长时间的文火慢煮，才能使肉质软烂入味。
如果一道菜被描述为'炖肉'，它的口感通常是怎样的？
炖肉的特点是肉质软烂，容易入口。
“炖肉”通常需要较短的烹饪时间。
炖肉通常需要较长的烹饪时间，以使肉质变得软烂入味。
在炖肉时，通常需要加入水或其他液体。
炖肉是一种湿热烹饪方法，需要液体来保持肉质湿润并煮熟。
“炖肉”这种烹饪方式只适用于猪肉。
炖肉可以用于多种肉类，如牛肉、羊肉、鸡肉等。
Listen for what Mom is doing in the kitchen.
What kind of stewed meat does the speaker like most?
What is important when stewing meat for good flavor?
Read this aloud:
这道菜的炖肉很入味，你觉得呢？
Focus: 入味 (rùwèi)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
你通常用什么方法炖肉？
Focus: 通常 (tōngcháng)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
炖肉的时候，你喜欢放哪些香料？
Focus: 香料 (xiāngliào)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe a time you cooked stewed meat or ate it. Include what kind of meat it was and what other ingredients were used. (50-80 Chinese characters)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我奶奶最擅长炖肉。她经常用猪肉和土豆炖。肉炖得很烂，味道非常好。我总是很期待吃奶奶炖的肉。
Imagine you are explaining to a friend how to stew meat. Write a short paragraph outlining the basic steps. (60-90 Chinese characters)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
炖肉很简单。首先，你需要准备好肉和一些蔬菜。然后，把它们放进锅里，加入调料和水。用小火慢慢炖，直到肉变得软烂入味。这个过程通常需要几个小时。
Compare stewed meat to another cooking method for meat (e.g., frying, roasting). Discuss the differences in texture, flavor, and cooking time. (70-100 Chinese characters)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
炖肉和炒肉有很大的不同。炖肉通常需要很长时间，肉会变得非常软烂入味，汤汁浓郁。而炒肉则速度快，肉质会比较有嚼劲，味道清淡。我个人更喜欢炖肉的丰富口感和味道。
根据这段话，为什么北方家庭冬天喜欢炖肉吃？
Read this passage:
在中国北方，很多家庭冬天都会炖肉吃。最常见的是炖排骨或炖牛肉。炖肉不仅能提供丰富的营养，还能让身体感到温暖。有时候，人们还会加入一些中草药，使其更具滋补功效。全家人围坐在一起吃炖肉，是一种温馨的享受。
根据这段话，为什么北方家庭冬天喜欢炖肉吃？
文章中明确提到“炖肉不仅能提供丰富的营养，还能让身体感到温暖”。
文章中明确提到“炖肉不仅能提供丰富的营养，还能让身体感到温暖”。
这段话主要强调了什么？
Read this passage:
炖肉的种类繁多，除了常见的猪肉、牛肉，还有炖羊肉、炖鸡肉等。不同的肉类需要不同的炖煮时间，以达到最佳口感。例如，炖牛肉通常比炖猪肉需要更长的时间。在准备炖肉时，选择新鲜的食材非常重要，这会直接影响最终的味道。
这段话主要强调了什么？
文章主要介绍了炖肉的种类以及强调了选择新鲜食材的重要性。
文章主要介绍了炖肉的种类以及强调了选择新鲜食材的重要性。
小李做的晚餐烹饪方法是什么？
Read this passage:
小李在厨房里忙碌着，准备晚餐。他决定做一道他母亲教的红烧肉。他把五花肉切块，焯水，然后放入锅中，加入酱油、料酒、冰糖等调料，小火慢炖了两个小时。炖好的红烧肉色泽红亮，肥而不腻，香气扑鼻。
小李做的晚餐烹饪方法是什么？
文章中提到“小火慢炖了两个小时”，这表明烹饪方法是炖。
文章中提到“小火慢炖了两个小时”，这表明烹饪方法是炖。
她喜欢用慢炖锅___牛肉，这样肉会更软烂入味。
根据语境“慢炖锅”和“肉会更软烂入味”，这里最合适的动词是“炖”。
这道菜的秘诀在于小火慢___，让香料的味道充分渗透到肉里。
“小火慢炖”是常见的搭配，表示用小火长时间烹饪，使食物软烂入味。
为了庆祝节日，妈妈准备___一大锅排骨，全家人都很期待。
“炖排骨”是很常见的家庭菜肴，与“一大锅”相符。
这家餐厅的特色菜是___了八小时的猪蹄，口感Q弹。
“炖了八小时”强调了长时间的烹饪过程，使猪蹄软烂入味。
在寒冷的冬天，没有什么比一碗热腾腾的___肉更能暖胃了。
“炖肉”通常是带汤汁的，在冬天食用有暖胃的作用。
这块牛肉太硬了，需要长时间地___才能变得酥烂。
“长时间地炖”是让硬肉变得酥烂的有效方法。
她想在晚餐时准备一道美味的___。
这句话的意思是“她想在晚餐时准备一道美味的炖肉。”，选项A符合语境。
为了让肉更入味，他决定用小火___几个小时。
这句话的意思是“为了让肉更入味，他决定用小火炖几个小时。”，选项C符合语境。
这种烹饪方法能使食材变得非常软烂和可口，我们通常称之为___。
这句话的意思是“这种烹饪方法能使食材变得非常软烂和可口，我们通常称之为炖煮。”，选项B符合语境。
炖肉通常是指用高温快速烹饪肉类。
炖肉通常是指用小火长时间烹饪，使肉变得软烂入味。
在中国，炖肉是一种非常受欢迎的家常菜烹饪方式。
在中国，炖肉确实是一种很常见的烹饪方式，深受人们喜爱。
炖肉时通常不需要添加任何液体，只靠食材本身的水分。
炖肉通常需要加入汤或水，以便长时间慢炖。
Imagine you are describing your favorite traditional Chinese dish that involves stewing meat. Describe the dish, its main ingredients, and how it is typically prepared, focusing on the stewing process. Use "炖肉" at least once.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我最喜欢的中国菜是红烧肉。这道菜主要是用五花肉炖肉，通常会加入酱油、料酒、冰糖和一些香料。肉经过长时间的炖煮，变得非常软烂入味，肥而不腻。炖肉的火候很关键，要小火慢炖，才能让味道充分渗透到肉里。
You are writing a short blog post about healthy eating and cooking methods. Compare the health benefits of stewing meat (炖肉) with other cooking methods like frying or grilling. Discuss why stewing might be a healthier option.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
在追求健康饮食的今天，选择合适的烹饪方式至关重要。与油炸或烧烤相比，炖肉（炖肉）是一种更健康的烹饪方法。炖肉过程中，食材在较低的温度下长时间烹煮，这有助于保留食材的营养成分，同时减少油脂的摄入。而且，通过炖煮，肉质会变得更加软烂，易于消化吸收。
Write a short narrative about a family gathering where a special stewed meat dish was the centerpiece. Describe the atmosphere, the people, and the significance of the dish. Use "炖肉" to refer to the dish.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
每年的春节，我们家都会准备一道特别的炖肉，这几乎成了家庭聚会的传统。这道炖肉是奶奶的拿手菜，香气四溢，总能让整个屋子充满温馨。大家围坐在一起，一边品尝着这道美味的炖肉，一边分享着过去一年的趣事。对我来说，这道炖肉不仅仅是食物，更是家人团聚和爱的象征。
根据这段文字，关于炖肉的说法哪一项是正确的？
Read this passage:
炖肉是中国传统烹饪中的一项重要技术，其历史悠久。通过长时间的慢火加热，肉类食材能够充分吸收汤汁的精华，变得软烂入味。不同地区的炖肉方式和调料都有所不同，形成了各种风味独特的炖肉菜肴。例如，东北的猪肉炖粉条，南方的白切鸡炖汤，都是深受人们喜爱的炖肉佳品。
根据这段文字，关于炖肉的说法哪一项是正确的？
文章中明确提到“通过长时间的慢火加热，肉类食材能够充分吸收汤汁的精华，变得软烂入味。”
文章中明确提到“通过长时间的慢火加热，肉类食材能够充分吸收汤汁的精华，变得软烂入味。”
这段文字主要表达了什么？
Read this passage:
在很多家庭中，炖肉不仅仅是一种烹饪方式，更承载着家的味道和记忆。每当闻到炖肉的香气，人们常常会联想到温暖的家，以及家人团聚的幸福时刻。这种情感连接使得炖肉成为许多人心中不可替代的 Comfort Food。因此，一道好的炖肉，不仅仅是味蕾的享受，更是心灵的慰藉。
这段文字主要表达了什么？
文章中强调了炖肉与“家的味道和记忆”，“温暖的家”，“家人团聚的幸福时刻”以及“心灵的慰藉”之间的关系。
文章中强调了炖肉与“家的味道和记忆”，“温暖的家”，“家人团聚的幸福时刻”以及“心灵的慰藉”之间的关系。
根据这段文字，选择哪种肉类更适合炖肉？
Read this passage:
炖肉对食材的选择有一定要求。通常会选用带有一定脂肪的肉类，如猪五花肉、牛腩或羊排，这样在炖煮过程中能释放出更浓郁的香味，并使肉质更加滋润。此外，搭配一些耐煮的蔬菜，如土豆、胡萝卜或白萝卜，不仅能增加菜肴的营养，还能丰富口感。
根据这段文字，选择哪种肉类更适合炖肉？
文章中提到“通常会选用带有一定脂肪的肉类，如猪五花肉、牛腩或羊排，这样在炖煮过程中能释放出更浓郁的香味，并使肉质更加滋润。”
文章中提到“通常会选用带有一定脂肪的肉类，如猪五花肉、牛腩或羊排，这样在炖煮过程中能释放出更浓郁的香味，并使肉质更加滋润。”
This sentence means 'Grandma likes to stew meat for us to eat.' The structure follows Subject-Verb-Object-Indirect Object. '炖肉' (to stew meat) acts as the main verb phrase.
This sentence means 'This dish of stewed meat needs a long time to absorb the flavor.' '这道菜炖肉' refers to the stewed meat dish. '需要很长时间' (needs a long time) is the duration, and '才能入味' (to absorb the flavor) is the purpose.
This sentence means 'He uses a clay pot to stew meat, and the taste is especially fragrant.' '用砂锅' (uses a clay pot) indicates the tool, and '炖肉' (to stew meat) is the action. '味道特别香' describes the outcome.
她喜欢用慢炖锅___鸡肉，这样肉会更嫩。
Context indicates slow cooking for tender meat, '炖' (stew) is the most appropriate verb. '烤' means roast, '炸' means fry, '煮' means boil.
这道红烧肉需要小火___至少两个小时才能入味。
The phrase '小火' (low heat) and '两个小时' (two hours) strongly suggest a stewing process for flavor. '炒' means stir-fry, '蒸' means steam, '煎' means pan-fry.
奶奶最擅长___牛肉，她的秘方让肉质酥烂。
The description '肉质酥烂' (meat is tender and soft) is characteristic of stewing. '煮' means boil, '炸' means fry, '烤' means roast.
为了让猪蹄更软糯，厨师建议用文火___。
'文火' (gentle heat) and '软糯' (soft and glutinous) are typical of stewing. '烤' means roast, '炒' means stir-fry, '蒸' means steam.
这锅排骨汤是妈妈精心___出来的，味道鲜美。
Making soup with ribs implies a slow cooking process, which is stewing. '炸' means fry, '煎' means pan-fry, '煮' means boil (which can be quick).
北方人冬天喜欢___一锅羊肉，驱寒又滋补。
The context of '冬天' (winter) and '驱寒又滋补' (ward off cold and nourish) suggests a long, slow cooking method like stewing. '炒' means stir-fry, '炸' means fry, '烤' means roast.
Choose the most appropriate synonym for "炖肉" in the context of cooking.
While '炖肉' specifically means 'to stew meat,' '焖' is a broader term that encompasses slow cooking methods like stewing and braising, making it the closest synonym among the options.
Which of the following dishes most likely involves the cooking method of "炖肉"?
红烧肉 (Braised Pork Belly) is a classic Chinese dish where pork belly is slowly stewed or braised until tender, perfectly aligning with the meaning of '炖肉'.
In a culinary competition, a judge critiques a dish, saying, '这道菜的肉没有____够火候，口感很硬。' Which word best fills the blank, implying the meat wasn't stewed long enough?
The phrase '没有炖够火候' means 'wasn't stewed long enough/to perfection,' directly referring to the cooking method of stewing meat.
The term "炖肉" is typically used for quickly cooking meat over high heat.
炖肉 (dùn ròu) refers to stewing meat, which is a slow cooking method over low heat, not a quick method over high heat.
If someone says they are going to "炖肉", it means they will be grilling meat.
炖肉 (dùn ròu) means to stew meat, which is different from grilling meat (烧烤 shāokǎo).
A dish that requires the meat to be very tender and fall off the bone often involves the "炖肉" method.
Stewing (炖) is a cooking method well-suited for breaking down tough cuts of meat and making them very tender, often to the point of falling off the bone.
Think about what kind of meat '红烧肉' refers to.
Consider the meaning of '入味' in the context of cooking.
What kind of pot is '砂锅'?
Read this aloud:
你觉得炖排骨需要多长时间才能骨肉分离？
Focus: 炖排骨
You said:
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Read this aloud:
在中国，有哪些地方特色菜是以炖肉为主的？
Focus: 地方特色菜
You said:
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Read this aloud:
请描述一下你最喜欢的一道炖肉菜肴。
Focus: 菜肴
You said:
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Imagine you're writing a family recipe. Describe how your grandmother used to stew meat, including the ingredients and steps. Use at least 炖肉 once.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我奶奶炖肉是一绝。她总是选用带骨的五花肉，先焯水去腥，然后用小火慢慢炖上两三个小时。放几片姜，一些八角，还有她秘制的酱料。每次炖出来的肉都软烂入味，香气扑鼻，是家里最受欢迎的菜。
You are a food critic reviewing a new restaurant. Describe a signature stewed meat dish, focusing on its texture, flavor, and presentation. Use at least 炖肉 once.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
这家新开的餐厅有一道招牌炖肉，名为“秘制红烧肉”。肉质炖得恰到好处，入口即化，肥而不腻。酱汁浓郁，带着微微的甜味，与肉的鲜香完美融合。摆盘也很精致，肉块整齐地码放在青菜上，色泽诱人。这道炖肉绝对值得一试。
You are a chef developing a new stewed meat recipe for a high-end fusion restaurant. Explain your creative process, highlighting unique ingredients or techniques you would use. Use at least 炖肉 once.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我正在为我们高档融合餐厅开发一款全新的炖肉菜肴。我的创意是结合传统中式炖肉的慢炖技巧与西式香料的运用。我可能会选用澳洲和牛，用红酒和香草替代部分传统调料进行炖肉，以增加其风味层次。最后再加入一些季节性蔬菜，以提升菜品的视觉效果和营养价值。
根据文章，炖肉在中国北方有什么作用？
Read this passage:
在中国北方，很多家庭在冬天都会炖肉。这不仅是为了抵御寒冷，更是一种独特的饮食文化。大家围坐在一起，分享着热气腾腾的炖肉，聊着家常，其乐融融。不同地区有不同的炖肉方法，例如东北的猪肉炖粉条，南方的笋干炖肉，各有千秋。
根据文章，炖肉在中国北方有什么作用？
文章明确提到“这不仅是为了抵御寒冷，更是一种独特的饮食文化。”
文章明确提到“这不仅是为了抵御寒冷，更是一种独特的饮食文化。”
根据文章，炖肉成功与否的关键因素不包括哪个？
Read this passage:
炖肉看似简单，实则需要耐心和技巧。火候的掌握至关重要，过大的火容易使肉质柴硬，过小的火则炖不出应有的软烂。调料的搭配也需考究，过多或过少都会影响最终的味道。因此，一道成功的炖肉，是厨师经验与心血的结晶。
根据文章，炖肉成功与否的关键因素不包括哪个？
文章提到了火候、调料搭配和厨师的经验（耐心），但没有提及肉的产地。
文章提到了火候、调料搭配和厨师的经验（耐心），但没有提及肉的产地。
文章提到清炖和药膳炖肉的出现说明了什么？
Read this passage:
近年来，随着人们对健康饮食的关注，炖肉的方式也开始多样化。除了传统的红烧炖肉，还出现了清炖、药膳炖肉等。清炖注重食材的原汁原味，药膳炖肉则加入了中草药，以达到滋补养生的目的。这表明，炖肉这种传统烹饪方式也在不断创新，以适应现代人的需求。
文章提到清炖和药膳炖肉的出现说明了什么？
文章最后一句明确指出“这表明，炖肉这种传统烹饪方式也在不断创新，以适应现代人的需求。”
文章最后一句明确指出“这表明，炖肉这种传统烹饪方式也在不断创新，以适应现代人的需求。”
This sentence describes a common family scenario where a mother stews meat for her family. The structure '给...吃' (gěi... chī) means 'for...to eat'.
This sentence explains the cooking method for a dish. '慢火' (màn huǒ) means 'slow fire' or 'simmer'. '才能入味' (cái néng rù wèi) means 'only then can it absorb flavor'.
This sentence describes someone's weekend routine. '常常' (chángcháng) means 'often'. '招待朋友' (zhāodài péngyou) means 'to entertain friends'.
/ 162 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
When you want to say 'to stew meat' in Chinese, use '炖肉'.
- Cook meat slowly in liquid.
- Makes meat tender and flavorful.
- Common cooking method in Chinese cuisine.
Basic Meaning of 炖肉
The most straightforward meaning of 炖肉 (dùn ròu) is to stew meat. It's a common cooking method in Chinese cuisine.
Breaking Down the Characters
炖 (dùn) means to stew or simmer. 肉 (ròu) means meat. Putting them together literally means 'stew meat'.
Common Usage: A Verb
炖肉 is typically used as a verb phrase, describing the action of stewing meat. For example, 'I am stewing meat for dinner' would be 我在炖肉做晚饭 (wǒ zài dùn ròu zuò wǎnfàn).
Can Also Be a Noun
While primarily a verb, 炖肉 can also refer to the stewed meat dish itself. For example, 'This stewed meat is delicious' would be 这个炖肉很好吃 (zhè ge dùn ròu hěn hǎo chī).
