In America, Chinese food is the most popular ethnic cuisine, with Mexican food coming in second. However, what passes as "Chinese" food in the States can be a far cry from the meals that people in the Republic of China enjoy. Authentic Chinese food is different compared to the cuisine that we eat in the United States. For instance, most American Chinese food is heavily battered and fried; vegetables are more or fewer condiments, rather than the primary basis for some dishes. The American Chinese food that we get when we order take-out does not embrace the many regional differences found throughout the vast empire of China. Although Chinese foods in the States might taste better then authentic Chinese food, it is nowhere close to being as healthy. For instance, the average Chinese derives anywhere from 6 to 24 percent of their daily calories from fat, compared to 39 percent for the average American. (CITE) Also, the Chinese eat more calories than Americans per pound of body weight but suffer less obesity. (CITE) Meaning, the Chinese diet is healthier than the American diet but also the changes Americans make to Chinese food decrease the chance in improving the diet. Americanization of authentic Chinese cuisine has resulted in food that is high in calories and high in fat. This is because, in part, Americans lack the proper ingredients and knowledge of proper Chinese cooking techniques.
             One of the greatest differences in authentic Chinese food and Americanized Chinese food is that original Chinese food differs according to region. Americanized Chinese food tastes the same no matter what city or state that it is made in. One approach to describing the regional cuisine of China is to note the general characteristics of cooking and culture by location; North, South, East, West. (CITE) Some observers characterize those regional cuisines as sweet in south, salty in north, hot in east and sour in West. (CITE) In China, one can find a diver...