35+ Delicious Holiday Diabetic Chinese Recipes to Elevate Your Feast Table

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and of course, indulging in delicious food.

However, for those managing diabetes, it can sometimes feel like a challenge to enjoy the same festive foods as others.

Fortunately, Chinese cuisine offers a variety of flavorful, low-carb dishes that are both healthy and delicious, making them the perfect addition to any holiday spread.

Whether you’re looking for light appetizers, hearty main courses, or sweet desserts, there are countless diabetic-friendly Chinese recipes that can be enjoyed without compromising on taste.

We’ve compiled a list of over 35 holiday-worthy Chinese recipes that will help you stay healthy and satisfied while still celebrating in style.

From flavorful stir-fries and steamed dishes to healthy soups and inventive side dishes, these recipes are designed to meet the dietary needs of those with diabetes.

Many of these dishes are low in sugar, high in fiber, and packed with lean proteins and fresh vegetables—ingredients that are perfect for stabilizing blood sugar levels.

35+ Delicious Holiday Diabetic Chinese Recipes to Elevate Your Feast Table

Eating healthy during the holiday season doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or tradition.

With these 35+ diabetic-friendly Chinese recipes, you can indulge in the delicious tastes of Chinese cuisine while staying true to your health goals.

From savory stir-fries and steamed dishes to fresh vegetable-packed sides and guilt-free desserts, these recipes offer a variety of options to please everyone at your holiday table.

By focusing on whole foods, fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and low-sugar ingredients, you can enjoy festive meals that are both nourishing and satisfying.

Whether you’re managing diabetes or simply want to eat healthier this holiday season, these recipes are the perfect way to celebrate with family and friends.

Steamed Garlic Ginger Fish

This dish is a delightful blend of savory and aromatic flavors, perfect for a festive yet health-conscious holiday meal. The combination of fresh fish, garlic, and ginger brings a classic Chinese touch while maintaining a low glycemic impact. Ideal for those managing diabetes, it’s both nourishing and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole white fish (tilapia or sea bass), cleaned and scaled
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, julienned
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
• A handful of fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Place the fish on a steaming dish or tray that fits inside your steamer.
2. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and half the ginger.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the fish, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
4. Top the fish with the remaining ginger and green onions.
5. Steam over medium heat for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with sliced chili (if using) and fresh cilantro before serving.

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a small portion of brown rice, offering a wholesome, flavor-packed option for the holidays. It’s light yet deeply satisfying, making it a crowd-pleaser even for non-diabetic guests.

Stir-Fried Tofu and Vegetables

A vibrant and nutritious stir-fry that showcases the beauty of fresh vegetables and protein-packed tofu. With a quick preparation time and low-carb ingredients, it’s perfect for diabetic-friendly holiday feasts. The bold flavors make it a standout dish while aligning with dietary needs.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, cubed
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
4. Add broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and mushrooms. Stir-fry for 5 minutes or until tender-crisp.
5. Return the tofu to the skillet and mix in soy sauce and chili flakes (if using).
6. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to blend flavors.
7. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

This dish is versatile, allowing you to swap vegetables based on preference or availability. Its colorful presentation and delicious taste make it a festive addition to the holiday table.

Cauliflower Fried Rice

This low-carb, diabetes-friendly take on fried rice is a holiday miracle. Cauliflower rice absorbs the traditional Chinese flavors beautifully, ensuring you don’t miss out on a classic favorite while keeping the meal healthy. It’s hearty, flavorful, and a great choice for a festive dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cauliflower rice
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp ground white pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the beaten eggs, scrambling until just cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant.
4. Add carrots and peas, cooking until slightly tender.
5. Stir in the cauliflower rice and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Mix in the scrambled eggs, soy sauce, and white pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Cauliflower fried rice is a guilt-free alternative that still delivers on texture and flavor. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a beloved Chinese dish during the holidays without compromising your health goals.

Chinese Style Chicken and Bok Choy Soup

This light and soothing soup combines the wholesome goodness of chicken and bok choy, offering a heartwarming dish that’s low in carbs and perfect for diabetic-friendly holiday meals. The flavors are delicate, yet comforting, making it an ideal choice for a holiday lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 2 cups bok choy, chopped
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp white pepper
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the ginger and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
2. Add the sliced chicken and cook until it turns white.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, bringing it to a simmer.
4. Add the bok choy and onion. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Season with white pepper, and stir to combine.
6. Garnish with fresh green onions before serving.

This soup is both nourishing and light, making it the perfect addition to a holiday feast. Its warm, flavorful broth is perfect for those seeking a low-carb, comforting meal. The soup can be served as an appetizer or a main course, and it pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a small serving of rice.

Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry

A delightful and easy-to-make stir-fry that brings together shrimp and asparagus, this dish is a wonderful combination of lean protein and fiber. It’s a festive yet healthy option for those with diabetes, offering bold flavors and a satisfying crunch in each bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the asparagus and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. Return the shrimp to the skillet, and add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili flakes. Stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

This shrimp and asparagus stir-fry is both visually stunning and delicious, making it perfect for holiday gatherings. It’s a low-carb, high-protein dish that will leave your guests feeling satisfied without compromising their health.

Chinese-Style Zucchini Noodles

This recipe offers a creative and healthy take on traditional Chinese noodles by using zucchini noodles instead. It’s a light, gluten-free alternative that is low in carbs but still packed with flavor, making it perfect for those watching their blood sugar levels during the holidays.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp grated ginger
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 tsp sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
3. Add the bell peppers and carrots, stir-frying for about 2 minutes until tender.
4. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid overcooking.
5. Pour in soy sauce and stir to combine.
6. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

These zucchini noodles are a fresh and delicious alternative to traditional fried noodles. The quick stir-fry process preserves their crunch and flavor, making this dish a great option for a healthy holiday side or light main dish.

Mongolian Beef with Cauliflower Rice

A tasty, low-carb version of the classic Mongolian beef dish, this recipe replaces traditional rice with cauliflower rice, making it diabetes-friendly while maintaining rich flavors. The beef is cooked to perfection in a sweet and savory sauce, and the cauliflower rice provides a perfect base to absorb all the flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup beef broth (low-sodium)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar substitute (or stevia)
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 4 cups cauliflower rice (steamed)
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, combine soy sauce, beef broth, and brown sugar substitute. Bring to a simmer.
4. Return the beef to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
5. Serve the Mongolian beef over cauliflower rice.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.

This Mongolian beef with cauliflower rice offers a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for holiday meals. It’s a satisfying and low-carb alternative to traditional Mongolian beef with rice, making it a great choice for those seeking a diabetic-friendly holiday feast.

Sesame-Crusted Salmon with Steamed Vegetables

This dish features tender salmon coated in a flavorful sesame crust, paired with a side of crisp, steamed vegetables. It’s a nutritious, low-carb option that brings both elegance and health benefits to your holiday table, perfect for those managing diabetes.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds (white or black)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup baby carrots
• 1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with garlic powder and black pepper.
3. Press sesame seeds onto both sides of the salmon fillets.
4. Place the fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
5. Steam the broccoli and carrots for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still vibrant.
6. Serve the sesame-crusted salmon on a plate with steamed vegetables and garnish with lemon zest.

This dish provides an ideal balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it perfect for a diabetic-friendly holiday meal. The sesame crust adds a delightful crunch to the rich, flavorful salmon, and the steamed vegetables offer a light, nutritious side.

Chinese-Style Eggplant Stir-Fry

Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that works beautifully in Chinese stir-fries. This low-carb recipe uses a mix of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce to bring out the eggplant’s natural flavor, while the dish remains light and suitable for those managing diabetes.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp chili paste (optional for heat)
• 1/4 tsp ground white pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the eggplant slices and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until the eggplant becomes tender and slightly browned.
3. Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste (if using), and white pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

This Chinese-style eggplant stir-fry is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy holiday meal. The savory sauce and tender eggplant make it a great option for a low-carb dinner or a side dish to complement other festive recipes.

Braised Chicken with Mushrooms and Bok Choy

Braised chicken with mushrooms and bok choy is a savory, umami-rich dish that’s perfect for a diabetic-friendly holiday meal. The slow-braising process helps to infuse the chicken with a deep flavor, while the bok choy and mushrooms provide nutritional value and texture.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skinless
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms (shiitake or button)
• 1 bunch bok choy, chopped
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
• 1/2 tsp grated ginger
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, sauté the garlic, ginger, and mushrooms for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), chicken broth, and white pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and cover. Let the dish simmer on low for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
5. Add the chopped bok choy and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

This braised chicken with mushrooms and bok choy is a hearty, flavorful dish that will satisfy even the most discerning palates during holiday celebrations. It’s rich in protein and vegetables, offering a comforting, diabetes-friendly meal.

Tofu and Vegetable Hot Pot

This warm and comforting hot pot is full of flavor, featuring tofu, mushrooms, and a mix of vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy holiday gathering, offering a healthy, low-carb, and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, cubed
• 2 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium)
• 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup snow peas
• 1/2 cup bok choy, chopped
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add the mushrooms, snow peas, and bok choy to the pot, cooking for 5 minutes until tender.
4. Add the cubed tofu and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.
5. Serve the hot pot in bowls and garnish with chopped green onions.

This tofu and vegetable hot pot is both comforting and nutritious, making it an excellent choice for a holiday meal. It’s light yet flavorful, and the combination of tofu and vegetables makes it a great option for those looking to keep their blood sugar levels in check while still enjoying a delicious meal.

Steamed Chicken with Ginger and Scallions

This steamed chicken dish is simple yet incredibly flavorful, making it a perfect addition to a diabetic-friendly holiday spread. The fragrant ginger and fresh scallions infuse the chicken with aromatic flavors, creating a moist and tender dish without the need for heavy sauces.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2-inch piece of ginger, sliced thinly
• 3-4 scallions, cut into 2-inch lengths
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp white pepper

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken breasts on a heatproof dish suitable for steaming.
2. Scatter the ginger and scallions over the chicken.
3. Fill a wok or large pot with water, bring it to a simmer, and set the dish of chicken inside, making sure the water does not touch the chicken. Cover and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Remove the chicken from the steamer and drizzle with sesame oil and soy sauce. Sprinkle with white pepper.
5. Serve with additional scallions as a garnish.

This steamed chicken with ginger and scallions offers a light and delicious meal that’s both low in fat and rich in flavor. It’s a healthy, low-carb option that makes a perfect main course for a holiday dinner.

Stir-Fried Shrimp with Bok Choy and Garlic

A flavorful and healthy stir-fry featuring shrimp, bok choy, and garlic, this dish is a quick and easy option for holiday gatherings. It provides lean protein, fiber, and plenty of vitamins, making it an ideal choice for diabetic-friendly meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch bok choy, chopped
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
• 1/4 tsp ground white pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Add the bok choy and stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender.
5. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili flakes (if using), and white pepper.
6. Serve the stir-fry immediately, garnished with additional chili flakes if desired.

This stir-fried shrimp with bok choy is a healthy, low-carb option that packs plenty of flavor in every bite. The fresh, crunchy bok choy complements the tender shrimp, making it a perfect dish for a holiday meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Chinese Steamed Dumplings with Tofu and Vegetables

These steamed dumplings are a light, yet flavorful treat that’s perfect for a diabetic-friendly holiday appetizer. The tofu and vegetable filling provides a healthy protein source, while the light steaming keeps them low in fat.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, crumbled
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 20-25 dumpling wrappers (available at Asian markets)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled tofu, shredded carrots, chopped cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir until well combined.
2. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a half-moon shape, sealing the edges with a little water.
3. Bring a pot of water to a simmer and steam the dumplings in a steamer basket for 10-12 minutes, or until the wrappers are tender and the filling is heated through.
4. Serve the dumplings with a small dish of low-sodium soy sauce for dipping.

These Chinese steamed dumplings are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fried dumplings. They make a great appetizer or snack for holiday gatherings, offering a satisfying, diabetic-friendly treat.

Lotus Root and Pork Stir-Fry

Lotus root, a traditional Chinese vegetable, is high in fiber and has a unique crunchy texture. Paired with lean pork and a savory sauce, this stir-fry makes for a satisfying holiday dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb lean pork tenderloin, thinly sliced
• 1 lotus root, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp sugar substitute (like stevia or monk fruit)
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork slices and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the lotus root slices and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften and become golden brown.
4. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, black pepper, sugar substitute, and water. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the lotus root.
5. Return the pork to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

This lotus root and pork stir-fry is a delicious and unique dish that’s perfect for a diabetic-friendly holiday meal. The crunchy lotus root pairs beautifully with tender pork, creating a satisfying combination that’s full of flavor and low in carbs.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!