I like Chinese Food

I like Chinese food. Simple phrase, right? Sometimes I open up learn Chinese textbook I see

Version One: 我喜歡中國飯 (T)/ 我喜欢中国饭 (S)/ wǒ xǐhuan Zhōngguó fàn
Direct Translation: I live Chinese rice.

not

Version Two: 我喜歡中國菜 (T)/我喜欢中国菜 (S)/ wǒ xǐhuan Zhōngguó cài
Direct Translation: I like Chinese meals.

So what is going on here? Is the textbook outdated and it doesn't follow the hip and modern everyday speak? I ask my teacher, Professor Liu. I believe he has a good explanation. There was a time when rice is the staple on your table. You will always have rice with a meal. Vegetables and meat dishes are more expensive and can be a luxury for some families. As our society advances our standard of living goes up. Rice doesn't have to be part of the meal to fill us up anymore. You look forward to the dishes serve.