Welcome!
Hi friends! I’m Crystal
Food blogger& passionate home cook
I’m the heart and hands behind The Crystal Cookbook where I share authentic Chinese recipes and Asian dishes that anyone can make in their home kitchen.
Cooking Chinese food isn’t just what I do—it’s who I am. Growing up watching my family’s hands work magic with simple ingredients sparked something in me that’s never faded.
After 15 years in the kitchen (plus that Food and Nutrition degree!), I’m here to share my family’s treasured recipes with you, and those authentic flavors and the stories behind them.
So grab your wok, mess up your kitchen, and let’s cook something delicious together!
Behind the blog
How it all started
I can still see little me, glasses fogging up as I watched Dad’s magical wrist-flick sending garlic flying into the sizzling wok. In our home, dinner wasn’t just eating—it was our daily reunion.
My first cooking disaster? Calling Dad after studying abroad, homesick and cafeteria-sick. He talked me through his stir-fry recipe — I burned the egg and overcooked the veggies, but that messy plate tasted like love.
15 years, a Food and Nutrition degree and countless experimenting, my kitchen has become my happy place. I love food, and love what is beyond how it just tastes like.
These recipes aren’t just instructions—they’re family treasures and my love to share. Mom’s dumpling-folding lessons. The spicy noodles that fueled my all-nighters. The stew that impressed my now-husband. Welcome to my family table. Hope you enjoy them as much as we do!
