Decoding the Culinary Delights of Chinese Take Out: Vegetarian and Vegan Recipes

Chinese take out has become an indispensable part of culinary landscapes worldwide, offering a convenient and flavorful dining experience. However, for those adhering to vegetarian or vegan lifestyles, finding satisfying options among the array of meat-centric dishes can be a challenge. This comprehensive article presents a tantalizing selection of Chinese take out recipes that cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences, providing a delectable gateway into the rich flavors and aromas of this beloved cuisine.

Best Asian Recipes from Mama Li's Kitchen BookSet - 4 books in 1: Chinese Take-Out Recipes (Vol 1); Wok (Vol 2); Asian Vegetarian and Vegan Recipes (Vol ... (Vol 4) (Mama Li's Chinese Food Cookbooks)

by Sarah Spencer

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	32762 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	450 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Essential Ingredients for Vegetarian and Vegan Chinese Take Out

Before embarking on your culinary adventure, it is crucial to equip yourself with the essential ingredients that form the foundation of vegetarian and vegan Chinese dishes:

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• Soy Sauce: A versatile seasoning that adds umami and salty depth.
• Hoisin Sauce: A thick, sweet, and savory sauce made from fermented soybeans.
• Rice Vinegar: Provides a subtle sour tang that balances other flavors.
• Sesame Oil: A flavorful oil that imparts a nutty aroma and enhances dishes.
• Ginger and Garlic: Aromatic ingredients that contribute to a flavorful base.
• Cornstarch: A thickening agent that adds body and texture to sauces.
• Vegetable Broth: A flavorful liquid that forms the base for many dishes.
• Tofu: A versatile plant-based protein that can be used in various preparations.
• Tempeh: A fermented soybean product with a chewy texture that can be used as a meat substitute.
• Seitan: A wheat gluten-based meat substitute with a firm, meaty texture.

Mouthwatering Vegetarian and Vegan Chinese Take Out Recipes

1. Vegetarian Chop Suey

This classic dish features a medley of colorful vegetables stir-fried in a savory sauce. The combination of crispy broccoli, juicy carrots, and tender snow peas makes this a satisfying and visually appealing choice.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 large onion, cut into thin slices
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrot chunks
• 1 cup snow peas
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. Heat the sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. 2. Add the onion and cook until softened. 3. Add the broccoli, carrots, and snow peas and cook until tender-crisp. 4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, vegetable broth, and cornstarch mixture. 5. Pour the sauce into the wok and bring to a simmer. 6. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the vegetables.

2. Vegan Black Bean Sauce with Tofu

This savory dish showcases the versatility of tofu, coated in a rich and flavorful black bean sauce. The combination of tender tofu, crispy vegetables, and a tangy sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 1 cup black bean sauce
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the black bean sauce, soy sauce, maple syrup, and rice vinegar. 2. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. 3. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides. 4. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened. 5. Pour the black bean sauce mixture into the skillet and bring to a simmer. 6. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu and vegetables.

3. Vegetarian Mapo Tofu

This spicy and aromatic dish is a Sichuan classic, featuring tender tofu in a flavorful, chili-infused sauce. The combination of soft tofu, crispy vegetables, and a fiery sauce creates a tantalizing burst of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1/2 cup chili bean paste
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. 2. Add the onion and cook until softened. 3. Add the garlic, ginger, and chili bean paste and cook for 1 minute. 4. Add the tofu cubes and cook until browned on all sides. 5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, vegetable broth, and cornstarch mixture. 6. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer. 7. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu. 8. Sprinkle with Sichuan pepper before serving.

4. Vegan Pad See Ew

This popular Thai dish features wide rice noodles stir-fried with a savory sauce, vegetables, and tofu. The combination of tender noodles, crispy vegetables, and a tangy sauce creates a tantalizing blend of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 package wide rice noodles
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrots, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. 2. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. 3. Add the onion and cook until softened. 4. Add the broccoli and carrots and cook until tender-crisp. 5. Add the tofu cubes and cook until browned on all sides. 6. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, vegetable broth, rice vinegar, and maple syrup. 7. Pour the sauce into the wok and bring to a simmer. 8. Add the cooked rice noodles and toss until coated in the sauce.

5. Vegetarian Hot and Sour Soup

This comforting soup combines tangy and spicy flavors to create a complex and satisfying dish. The combination of tofu, vegetables, and a flavorful broth makes this a perfect choice for a cold winter night.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chili bean paste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. 2. Add the onion, carrot, and celery and cook until softened. 3. Add the tofu cubes and cook until browned on all sides. 4. Add the vegetable broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili bean paste. 5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes. 6. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch mixture. 7. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the soup, whisking constantly. 8. Cook until the soup thickens and becomes glossy.

Best Asian Recipes from Mama Li's Kitchen BookSet - 4 books in 1: Chinese Take-Out Recipes (Vol 1); Wok (Vol 2); Asian Vegetarian and Vegan Recipes (Vol ... (Vol 4) (Mama Li's Chinese Food Cookbooks)

by Sarah Spencer

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	32762 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	450 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE