Chinese New Year is a time for celebration, family, and, of course, food. Traditional dishes are beloved by many, from dumplings to lion’s head meatballs. But what if you’re a vegetarian or vegan? Fear not, as this guide will show you how to make delicious and nutritious vegetarian and vegan versions of classic Chinese New Year dishes.
So, whether you’re looking to try something new or enjoy a festive feast without meat, read on to discover how to make Chinese New Year dishes that will delight your taste buds and satisfy you.
Vegan Dumplings
- Ingredients: 1 package of vegan dumpling wrappers
- 1 cup of finely chopped cabbage
- 1 cup of finely chopped carrots
- 1 cup of finely chopped mushrooms
- 1 cup of finely chopped scallions
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
- 1 clove of minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
- Combine the cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and scallions in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic to the bowl. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Take a wrapper and place a small spoonful of the filling in the center.
- Fold the wrapper in half and press the edges to seal.
- Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and gently drop the dumplings in.
- Cook for about 3-5 minutes or until the dumplings float to the surface.
Dumplings are a staple of Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing wealth and good fortune. Our vegan version packs a punch of flavor and nutrition with a filling made of a mouth-watering medley of vegetables. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a healthy option for those following a vegan diet. Want to take it to the next level? Add some chopped cilantro or parsley for an extra burst of flavor or some finely grated beetroot or red bell pepper for a pop of color. Trust us; your taste buds will thank you.
Vegan Mapo Tofu
Get ready to spice up your Chinese New Year celebration with a vegan twist on a classic Sichuan dish: Vegan Mapo Tofu. Imagine a plate of soft and silky tofu smothered in a bold and spicy sauce made with fermented black beans, chili paste, and the unique numbing heat of Szechuan peppercorns. Each bite will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Served with steaming hot rice, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish that makes for a great alternative to traditional meat-based dishes. The fermented black beans add a depth of flavor that will surprise you, and the hint of Szechuan peppercorn will give a unique twist to your palate.
This dish is delicious, packed with protein, and an excellent option for those following a vegan diet. So, grab your chopsticks, dive into this vegan Mapo Tofu, and let the heat and flavor transport you to the streets of Sichuan.
Vegan Lion’s Head Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of finely chopped cabbage
- 1 cup of finely chopped carrots
- 1 cup of finely chopped mushrooms
- 1 cup of finely chopped scallions
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped tofu
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
- 1 clove of minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, scallions, and tofu.
- Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic to the bowl. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Form the mixture into large meatballs
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and gently drop the meatballs in.
- Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.
Explanation:
Lion’s Head Meatballs are a classic Chinese New Year dish that symbolizes power and bravery. Our vegan version is delicious and nutritious, made with various fresh vegetables, tofu, and a flavorful sauce that will surprise your taste buds. This dish is perfect for those following a vegan diet. To enhance the taste, try adding some finely chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley to the filling. For a crispy texture, pan-fry the meatballs in a bit of oil. Serve them with steamed rice or as a soup, and you’ll have a hearty and flavorful meal that will make your Chinese New Year celebration even more special.
Here Are a Few Other Vegan Chinese New Year 2023 Dishes That You Could Consider
- Indulge in the crispy and savory goodness of Vegan Spring Rolls this Chinese New Year. Filled with a medley of fresh vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms, these spring rolls are delicious and packed with nutrients. Dip them in a savory sauce for an added layer of flavor.
- Celebrate the Chinese New Year with a bowl of Vegan Chinese New Year Noodles, a traditional dish that symbolizes long life and good luck. These long noodles are made with a flavorful vegetable broth and a medley of fresh vegetables such as bok choy, mushrooms, and carrots, making them delicious and nutritious.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth with Vegan Chinese New Year Rice Cake (Nian Gao). This sweet glutinous rice cake is usually made with eggs and dairy but can be made vegan using coconut milk and vegan sweeteners. It can be eaten steamed or fried and is often topped with a sweet sauce made with soy sauce and brown sugar, making it a perfect and delicious vegan alternative to the traditional version.
- Warm up your soul with a bowl of Vegan Chinese New Year Sweet Soup, a warm and comforting dessert commonly served during the Chinese New Year. This sweet soup is made with various types of sweet glutinous rice balls, lotus seeds, red dates, and ginger, and it can be made vegan using non-dairy milk and sweeteners. It’s a perfect way to end your meal and celebrate the Chinese New Year
Well, folks, we’ve shared some mouth-watering recipes that will elevate your Chinese New Year celebration to the next level. These vegetarian and vegan versions of traditional dishes will make your taste buds dance and pack a punch of health benefits and cultural significance. So, don’t be shy and give them a try!
Please share them with your friends and family, and watch their faces light up as they take a bite of your delicious creations. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, try experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to make them even more delicious! Happy Chinese New Year, and enjoy your delicious and healthy meals! Gong Xi Fa Cai!