Top 8 Chinese Vegetarian Dishes
As an ancient culinary tradition, Chinese cooking has evolved over thousands of years. In modern times, an array of flavorful vegetarian options have become popular among diners looking for lighter fare. From stir-fries and fried rice to spring rolls and momos, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking to savor the classic flavors of Chinese cuisine or be adventurous in exploring vegetarian dishes from around the world, these dishes are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eater! So come explore some of my favorite Chinese vegetarian (and in some cases vegan) style dishes!
1. Hot and Sour Soup
I absolutely love Hot and Sour Soup, especially when I’m in the mood for something hearty and warming. It’s a classic Chinese dish that has been enjoyed by many for centuries and has spread its popularity worldwide.
The soup gets its distinct flavor from the combination of hot and sour, which is achieved by using vinegar and chili oil. In terms of the key ingredients, the vegetarian version of Hot and Sour Soup typically includes wood ear fungus, shiitake mushrooms, dried lily flowers, tofu, bamboo shoots, vinegar, chili peppers, soy sauce, scallions, and eggs.
As for the method, it’s all about layering those flavors. You first simmer the broth with the vegetables and then add in the spices and vinegar. The final result is a rich and hearty soup that will definitely warm you right up on a chilly day!
2. Nepali Momos with Spinach and Ricotta
Recently I had the most delicious Nepali Momos with Spinach and Ricotta! Momos originated in China and have become a popular dish in the Himalayan region, including Nepal.
What I love about these momos is that they are vegetarian, filled with a delectable mixture of spinach and creamy ricotta. The dough is light and fluffy, making each bite a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Momos are traditionally served with a dipping sauce made from tomatoes and Szechuan peppers, which adds a spicy kick to the already flavorful dish.
It’s no surprise that momos have become so popular globally, they’re easy to eat on the go or as a full meal. If you ever find yourself in Nepal or China, be sure not to miss out on the amazing momos!
3. Vegetarian Chow Mein
I love discovering new vegetarian dishes, and Chinese cuisine has so many delicious options. One of my favorites is Vegetarian Chow Mein, a popular dish in China that has been enjoyed for centuries.
Traditionally made with fresh chow mein noodles, this dish is loaded with vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, scallions, garlic, and bean sprouts. Some variations include tofu or seitan marinated in soy sauce and Chinese cooking wine.
To make it, the marinated tofu is stir-fried with the cabbage and carrot until it wilts, and then the noodles (which have been pre-cooked), scallions, bean sprouts, and a savory sauce (made from hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sriracha, sugar, and sesame oil) are added to the wok and warmed through.
Did you know that the origins of Chow Mein, which literally translates to “fried noodles”, can be traced back to the Taishan region of China, where it was originally made with stir-fried meat? Nowadays, vegetarian versions are just as popular and have become a staple in Chinese-American cuisine.
4. Vegetarian Fried Rice
Did you know that this dish is actually a classic staple in Chinese culture? It’s been around for centuries and is loved by many for its versatility and delicious taste.
The ingredients typically include cooked rice, vegetables (like onions, mushrooms, bell peppers, scallions, carrots, peas, and bean sprouts), soy sauce, and eggs.
The method for making it is pretty simple — start by frying the beaten eggs in a smoking hot wok and then set them aside. Stir-fry the vegetables, and then add the rice and cook until it is steaming. Finish by adding the eggs (omit to make this dish vegan) and some soy sauce, mixing it all together.
An interesting fact about this dish is that it was originally created as a way to use up leftover rice and ingredients, making it a practical and sustainable meal option.
5. Broccoli and Tofu Stir-Fry
I absolutely love making Broccoli and Tofu Stir-Fry for a healthy and delicious meal. Did you know that this dish originated in China, where it is a popular vegetarian / vegan option?
The main ingredients are broccoli and tofu, but you can also add in other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for added flavor and nutrition. To make this dish, start by sautéing the broccoli in a wok or large skillet with some garlic and ginger. Then add in the tofu and other veggies, along with a sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir-fry everything together until the veggies are tender and the tofu is slightly crispy. Serve it over rice and sprinkle with sesame seeds to make a complete and satisfying meal.
Give it a try and let me know what you think!
6. Vegetarian Chop Suey
I absolutely love Chinese food! One of my all-time favorite dishes is Vegetarian Chop Suey. This dish has been enjoyed for decades all around the globe.
Made with noodles and an assortment of vegetables such as celery, carrots, mushrooms, Chinese cabbage, onions, bamboo shoots, and bean sprouts, along with seasonings like garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.
The method for making chop suey involves stir-frying the vegetables and seasonings together, then adding the noodles and chop suey sauce (made from soy sauce, sesame oil, vegetarian oyster sauce, sweet chili sauce, and cornstarch), resulting in a dish that is both crisp and savory.
Interestingly enough, the origin of Chop Suey is somewhat debated. Some say it was created in the 19th century in San Francisco by Chinese immigrants, while others believe it was a dish already enjoyed in China that was simply modified for the Western palate. Either way, this dish has stood the test of time and is still a crowd pleaser today!
7. Vegetarian Spring Rolls
One of my favorite Chinese snacks has got to be Vegetarian Spring Rolls. These crispy rolls are a popular appetizer from China that are thought to have originated in East Asia. They consist of a variety of ingredients including shredded carrots, bean sprouts, mushrooms, glass noodles, egg, and strips of tofu, all wrapped up in a thin, delicate pastry.
To make these Veggie Spring Rolls, the ingredients are first cooked and then rolled up in translucent pastry wrappers. The rolls are then pan-fried or deep-fried until they’re golden brown and served with a sweet-and-sour dipping sauce.
The great thing about Vegetarian Spring Rolls is that they can easily be customized to include any vegetables you have on hand. You can also make them entirely vegan by omitting the egg in the filling and using vegan wrappers.
So if you’re looking for a tasty snack that’s a bit different from your usual fare, give Vegetarian Spring Rolls a try — they’re sure to be a hit!
8. Gobi Manchurian
I recently discovered my new favorite Chinese dish — Gobi Manchurian– a popular vegetarian / vegan dish in Indo-Chinese cuisine. There are two variations of Gobi Manchurian–dry, which is typically served as an appetizer or snack, or with gravy, which is normally served as a main dish.
Both variations start with blanching cauliflower florets, then dipping them in batter made from flour, corn starch, pepper, Kashmiri red chili powder, and soy sauce, and pan-frying or deep-frying them.
To make the dry version, a spicy hot sauce is made by sauteing ginger, garlic, green chilis, celery, and green bell pepper, and then adding soy sauce, tomato sauce, and sriracha sauce. The cauliflower florets are then tossed in the sauce with a small amount of rice vinegar. Garnished with spring onions and served as a delicious spicy snack.
The gravy version involves making the same sauce however, water and cornstarch are added to create a delicious thick gravy. The fried cauliflower florets are added to the gravy along with the all-important rice vinegar. It is then topped with spring onions and served with steamed rice, noodles, or fried rice.
So if you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious vegetarian dish, give Gobi Manchurian a try — I’m sure it’ll become a favorite!
Wrapping It Up
Chinese vegetarian dishes are a great way to enjoy delicious and nutritious meals. From Vegetarian Chow Mein to Gobi Manchurian, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or an elaborate meal, these dishes offer the perfect balance of flavors and textures that will satisfy everyone’s taste buds!
So if you’re craving a taste of Chinese cuisine, go ahead and give some of these vegetarian dishes a try — you won’t regret it!
Chī hǎo hē hǎo!
吃好喝好
