When it comes to exploring the world of Chinese cuisine, many people assume that vegetarian options are limited. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth! Chinese cooking has a rich history of incorporating plant-based ingredients and creative uses for tofu, which makes it an ideal canvas for delicious and healthy vegetarian recipes.
In this article, we’ll delve into 20 mouth-watering Chinese vegetarian dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings while also catering to dietary restrictions. From classic stir-fries to innovative takes on traditional recipes, these flavorful dishes showcase the versatility of Chinese cuisine in a plant-based context. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to mix things up, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Vegetarian Mapo Tofu
A flavorful and spicy Chinese-inspired dish that combines the creaminess of tofu with the bold flavors of Sichuan pepper and chili oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup fermented bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup chili oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the tofu and stir-fry until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the fermented bean paste, chili oil, soy sauce, and cornstarch mixture. Stir-fry until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stir-Fried Bok Choy with Garlic
A simple and flavorful Chinese-inspired dish that highlights the tender and slightly sweet flavor of bok choy, paired with pungent garlic. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of bok choy (about 2 cups), cleaned and separated into leaves and stalks
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon of soy sauce for added depth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add the bok choy leaves and stalks to the pan, stirring to combine with the garlic.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bok choy is slightly wilted but still crisp.
5. Season with salt to taste. If desired, add soy sauce and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Vegetarian Spring Rolls
A delicious and refreshing snack or appetizer, these vegetarian spring rolls are a perfect blend of crispy and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup cooked and mashed tofu
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots, and scallions.
2. Add the mashed tofu, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Serve the spring rolls warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the cooking method)
Note: You can fry the spring rolls for a crispy exterior, or bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.
Kung Pao Tofu
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this spicy and savory Kung Pao tofu recipe.
Ingredients:
• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts or cashews
• 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
• Salt and red pepper flakes to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, peanuts, and scallions. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Stir in soy sauce, wine, cornstarch, and Sichuan peppercorns. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked tofu back into the pan and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and red pepper flakes to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetarian Hot and Sour Soup
A flavorful and comforting soup that combines the best of Chinese cuisine with a vegetarian twist, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and tofu; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in sesame oil; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Braised Eggplant with Garlic Sauce
A flavorful and aromatic vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines tender eggplant with a rich garlic sauce, all wrapped up in a comforting braise.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the eggplant slices in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Transfer the cooked eggplant to a large Dutch oven or heavy pot.
5. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
6. Add the broth, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet, stirring to combine.
7. Pour the garlic sauce over the eggplant in the Dutch oven.
8. Cover the pot with a lid and braise for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the eggplant is extremely tender.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetarian Dumplings
A comforting and flavorful vegetarian take on traditional Chinese dumplings, these soft and chewy treats are filled with a savory mixture of vegetables and tofu.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Vegetable oil for pan-frying
Filling:
– 1/2 cup cooked tofu, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
– 1/2 cup chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
2. Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
3. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold and press edges to seal, forming a half-moon shape.
6. Pan-fry dumplings in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ma Po Eggplant
Ma Po Eggplant Recipe
Summary:
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this classic Ma Po eggplant dish, featuring tender eggplant, spicy ground pork, and a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggplant into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Mix well.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
4. Add the garlic, toasted Sichuan peppercorns, soy sauce mixture, and eggplant to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the eggplant is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetarian Chow Mein
A classic Chinese-inspired dish gets a vegetarian twist with this recipe, featuring a flavorful stir-fry of vegetables and noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms)
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. soy sauce
– 1 tsp. sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and bean sprouts. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add the garlic and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, along with the soy sauce. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, ensuring everything is well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stir-Fried Green Beans with Ginger
This quick and flavorful recipe adds a burst of freshness to any meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, noodles, or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the green beans, ginger, and garlic; stir-fry until the beans are tender-crisp (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Vegetarian Wonton Soup
Savor the comforting flavors of this Asian-inspired soup, packed with tender wontons and a variety of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 package vegetarian wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake, cremini, and oyster), sliced
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mixed mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, vegetable broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, cook the wonton wrappers according to package instructions.
6. Add the cooked wontons to the soup pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
7. Season with soy sauce and salt to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Sour Tofu
Sweet and Sour Tofu Recipe
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A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe is a great way to add some excitement to your meal routine!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, vinegar, ketchup, and cornstarch.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove tofu from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour sugar mixture into the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
5. Add cooked tofu back into the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetarian Fried Rice
A simple and flavorful dish that’s perfect for using up leftover vegetables and rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until they start to soften.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan.
5. Pour the cooked rice into the empty side of the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry the rice for about 2-3 minutes, until it’s lightly browned and crispy at the bottom.
7. Mix the rice with the vegetables; add soy sauce to taste.
8. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Buddha’s Delight
A harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, Buddha’s Delight is a vegan-friendly dish that combines the best of Asian-inspired ingredients with a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat the coconut milk over medium heat. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and turmeric powder. Stir until combined.
3. Add mixed vegetables to the pan and stir-fry until tender.
4. Combine cooked rice with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles
This vegetarian twist on the classic Chinese dish replaces traditional ground pork with a savory mixture of mushrooms, soy sauce, and spices. Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious noodle dish for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (e.g., rice noodles or eggless noodles)
– 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (e.g., shiitake, cremini, and oyster), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Add soy sauce and cornstarch mixture; stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the mushroom mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stir-Fried Tofu with Mixed Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with protein-rich tofu and a variety of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return the tofu to the pan; stir in soy sauce.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetarian Steamed Buns
These soft and fluffy steamed buns are perfect as a snack or side dish, filled with your favorite vegetarian ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Optional fillings (e.g. shredded vegetables, chopped nuts, or scrambled eggs)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add yeast and warm water, stirring until dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat steamer basket or a metal strainer lined with parchment paper over boiling water.
6. Divide dough into 8-10 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
7. Place the balls onto the prepared steamer basket, leaving some space between each bun.
8. Steam for 15 minutes, then serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Vegetarian Lo Mein
A classic Chinese-inspired dish, this Vegetarian Lo Mein is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lo mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster-free sauce (or tamari)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster-free sauce (or tamari). Cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked noodles with vegetable mixture; toss to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your Vegetarian Lo Mein!
Stir-Fried Cabbage with Dried Chilies
In this recipe, we’ll transform humble cabbage into a flavorful and spicy stir-fry, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The heat from the dried chilies adds depth and complexity to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup dried red chilies, crushed or chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, sesame oil, and/or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the crushed dried chilies and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add the garlic and stir-fry until aromatic (about 15 seconds).
4. Add the cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften (about 5 minutes).
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions or chili flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegetarian Sesame Noodles
This recipe brings together the nutty flavor of sesame and the satisfying chew of noodles, all in a quick and easy vegetarian dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. whole wheat noodles
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat with the sesame mixture.
5. Sprinkle chopped scallions and salt to taste.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 20 flavorful Chinese vegetarian recipes! From classic dishes like Vegetarian Mapo Tofu and Braised Eggplant with Garlic Sauce to innovative options like Stir-Fried Green Beans with Ginger and Vegetarian Fried Rice, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these easy-to-follow recipes will guide you through the preparation of delicious and healthy meals that are perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, explore the world of Chinese vegetarian cuisine!