Welcome to our blog, where we are diving into the world of Asian vegetarian cuisine! Whether you're a vegetarian looking for new culinary adventures or simply seeking to add more plant-based dishes to your diet, this post is for you. Asia is a treasure trove of flavors, spices, and ingredients that lend themselves perfectly to vegetarian cooking.
From aromatic curries to delicate stir-fries, we are about to embark on a journey through the best Asian vegetarian recipes. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover new flavors that will leave you craving for more. Let's get cooking!
1. Chinese-Style "Meat" Sauce
Chinese-Style "Meat" Sauce is a flavorful and hearty vegan dish that can be enjoyed with rice or noodles. Packed with "meaty" TVP and a mix of vegetables, this sauce is reminiscent of Taiwanese braised pork.
It is easy to prepare and can be made in advance. The sauce is rich and savory, with a hint of spice. Perfect for a satisfying meal.
2. Spicy Rice Bowls with Korean Marinated Tofu
Spicy Rice Bowls with Korean Marinated Tofu is a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish. The tofu is marinated in a spicy Korean sauce, adding a delicious kick to the dish. The rice serves as a perfect base, while the toppings like carrots, cucumber, avocado, sesame seeds, and hot sauce add freshness and texture.
This recipe is easy to customize and can be made vegan and gluten-free. It's a great option for meal prep, as the rice and tofu can be prepared ahead of time. Overall, these spicy rice bowls are a fantastic choice for a healthy and flavorful Asian vegetarian meal.
3. Vegetable Stir-Fry Noodles
Vegetable Stir-Fry Noodles is a quick and flavorful Asian vegetarian dish that is perfect for a simple and healthy meal. It requires minimal ingredients and can be customized with your favorite vegetables. The sauce is a delicious combination of vegetable broth, tamari, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and cornstarch.
This recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust the heat levels, sweetness, and even make it gluten-free. Overall, Vegetable Stir-Fry Noodles is a delicious and customizable option for a quick and satisfying vegetarian meal.
4. General Tso Tofu
General Tso Tofu is a delicious sweet and spicy vegetarian dish that satisfies takeout cravings. The tofu is marinated in a flavorful sauce and then cooked until browned and coated in a sticky glaze. It can be served over rice and topped with sesame seeds for added texture.
This recipe is versatile, allowing for variations such as adding more spice or vegetables. It is a great option for meal prepping and can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Overall, General Tso Tofu is a must-try Asian vegetarian recipe.
5. Vegan Asian Sesame Noodles
Vegan Asian Sesame Noodles is a quick and easy vegetarian dish that features thick chewy noodles coated in a flavorful sesame soy sauce. Packed with yu choy, carrots, green onions, and garlic, this dish offers a delicious and satisfying meal option.
The glossy sauce perfectly complements the noodles, making it a delightful addition to any dinner or lunch. With its focus on vegetables and flavorful sauces, this vegan recipe proves that meatless dishes can be both tasty and satisfying.
6. Vegan Tofu Noodle Soup
Vegan Tofu Noodle Soup is a quick and easy Asian soup that is perfect for chilly evenings. This light and comforting soup is made with bok choy, firm tofu, noodles, ginger, garlic, and vegetable stock.
It can be customized with your choice of vegetables and spices for added flavor. Whether you're a vegan or vegetarian, this soup is a delicious alternative to traditional chicken noodle soup.
7. Vegetarian Chow Mein
Vegetarian Chow Mein is a delicious and healthier alternative to take-out. It is a quick and easy recipe that is adaptable to your preferences and ingredients on hand. The combination of crispy noodles, crunchy vegetables, and a sweet and salty sauce creates a satisfying umami flavor.
This recipe can be easily customized to be vegan by using alternative noodles. Overall, Vegetarian Chow Mein is a simple and tasty dish that will satisfy your noodle cravings.
8. Kung Pao Tofu
Kung Pao Tofu is a delicious and authentic vegan Chinese dish that captures the flavors of Szechuan cuisine. It features crispy tofu coated in a savory, sticky, and slightly spicy sauce with a hint of tanginess from Chinese black vinegar.
The dish is elevated with the addition of peanuts, providing a satisfying crunch. Overall, Kung Pao Tofu is a must-try for vegetarians looking for a flavorful and satisfying Asian dish.
9. Asian Veg Stir Fry
The Asian Veg Stir Fry is a colorful and flavorful vegetarian dish that can be prepared in under 20 minutes. It features a medley of vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, zucchinis, mushrooms, bell peppers, bok choy, onions, ginger, and garlic, all cooked together in a wok with a homemade stir fry sauce.
The recipe provides tips on how to chop the veggies and emphasizes the importance of a hot wok for achieving crunchy results. Overall, this vegan stir fry is a quick and satisfying option for those craving Asian flavors.
10. Garlic Teriyaki Tempeh and Broccoli
Garlic Teriyaki Tempeh and Broccoli is a flavorful and quick vegetarian dish that mimics the classic beef and broccoli stir-fry. The tempeh is sautéed until golden brown and then coated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, along with nutritional yeast for added umami flavor.
Fresh broccoli and garlic are added to the mix, resulting in a tender-crisp and vibrant dish. Serve it over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice, and garnish with scallions and sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired meal that is both healthy and satisfying.
11. Asian-style Vegan Roast 'Chicken' Mushroom
The Asian-style Vegan Roast 'Chicken' Mushroom is a succulent and flavorful dish that showcases the versatility of mushrooms as a meat substitute. The recipe utilizes king oyster mushrooms, known for their fantastic texture and juicy tender filling.
The taste is mild yet meaty, making it a satisfying option for vegetarians. Inspired by VegePapa's YouTube channel, this dish is a great entrée on its own or can be paired with other Asian dishes. Overall, it's a delicious and innovative take on vegetarian cuisine.
12. Asian Vegetable Stir Fry
The Asian Vegetable Stir Fry is a delicious and healthy vegetarian dish packed with a variety of colorful vegetables like broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, bell pepper, and cabbage. It is stir-fried with a simple and flavorful Asian-style sauce.
This recipe can be enjoyed as a light and nutritious dinner option, and it can be served with rice or Asian noodles for a complete meal. The addition of grilled chicken is optional for non-vegetarians. Overall, this stir fry is a great choice for those looking for a tasty and satisfying Asian vegetarian recipe.
13. Easy Tom Kha Soup
The Easy Tom Kha Soup is a pantry-friendly vegetarian version of the traditional Thai coconut soup. Made with coconut milk, ginger, spices, and veggies, this soup is a delicious and flavorful weeknight dinner option.
The creamy texture, combined with the spicy, sweet, and sour flavors, make it a satisfying and comforting dish. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy meal or a way to incorporate more veggies into your diet, this recipe is a must-try.
14. Vegan Singapore Noodles
Vegan Singapore Noodles is a flavorful and satisfying stir-fry dish made with rice vermicelli noodles, tofu, and a blend of spices. It is a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. The curry powder adds a unique taste to the dish, making it a delicious and exciting option for vegetarians.
The recipe is versatile, allowing for the addition of various vegetables to suit personal preferences. Overall, Vegan Singapore Noodles is a must-try Asian vegetarian recipe that delivers on taste and convenience.
15. Vegetarian Wontons
Vegetarian Wontons are a delightful Asian-inspired dish filled with tofu, cabbage, carrots, ginger, mushrooms, and spring onions. Served with a soy and sweet chili dipping sauce, these wontons are easy to make and perfect for a light dinner or appetizer.
The combination of flavors and textures in the filling, along with the savory dipping sauce, make these wontons a delicious vegetarian option. Whether you're a fan of Chinese cuisine or looking for a tasty meatless dish, these Vegetarian Wontons are definitely worth a try.
16. Asian Vegetable Pasta
The Asian Vegetable Pasta is a flavorful and easy-to-make vegetarian dish inspired by East Asian cuisine. It features a medley of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, zucchini, and peppers, tossed with linguine pasta in a savory soy sauce and sesame seed dressing.
This recipe captures the essence of Asian flavors and is a delicious option for those looking for a simple and satisfying vegetarian meal.
17. Vegan Bibimbap
Vegan Bibimbap is a Korean classic that is packed with flavor and color. This easy-to-make dish is a great way to use up leftover vegetables and comes together in just 30 minutes.
The crispy tofu adds protein, and the homemade Gochujang sauce adds a delicious kick. It's a flexible recipe that can be customized with your favorite veggies. Overall, Vegan Bibimbap is a healthy, easy, and delicious vegetarian option for Asian cuisine lovers.
18. Vegan Fried Rice
Vegan Fried Rice is an easy and flavorful Asian vegetarian dish. Made with cold cooked rice, a variety of vegetables, and a homemade sauce, this recipe is a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner option.
The addition of furikake seasoning gives it a unique and delicious taste. Packed with protein from peas and edamame, this fried rice is a must-try for plant-based eaters.
19. Vegan Bòn Chay
Vegan Bòn Chay is a delicious Vietnamese noodle salad that is packed with flavor and texture. It features tender rice noodles, caramelized tofu, raw vegetables, crunchy peanuts, and a refreshing mix of fresh herbs.
The tangy-salty dressing, made with mushroom soy sauce, adds the perfect finishing touch. This vegan recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a vibrant and satisfying Asian vegetarian dish.
20. Portobello Mushroom & Broccoli Stir-Fry
The Portobello Mushroom & Broccoli Stir-Fry is a satisfying and customizable Asian-style vegan dish. It is made with fresh portobello mushrooms, broccoli florets, and a flavorful stir-fry sauce. The recipe is oil-free and gluten-free, making it a healthier alternative to traditional take-out dishes.
Serve it over brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal. This stir-fry is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables. Overall, it is a delicious and light option for a quick and nutritious vegetarian meal.
21. Vegan Pho
Vegan Pho is a comforting and flavorful Vietnamese soup made without meat. The key component of this dish is the savory and sweet broth, which is made with a variety of vegetables, fruits, and toasted spices.
The noodles used are flat rice sticks, and the soup is garnished with mung bean sprouts, cilantro, Thai basil, and other herbs and veggies. Overall, Vegan Pho is a delicious and satisfying vegetarian option for soup lovers.
22. Giniling
Giniling is a flavorful and hearty Asian vegetarian stew, also known as Filipino Picadillo. It combines plant-based ground beef with starchy vegetables like potatoes and carrots, along with aromatic ingredients like onion, garlic, and bay leaves.
The dish is elevated with the addition of tomato sauce, raisins, soy sauce, and vegan fish sauce for a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Green peas and olives add texture and depth. Garnished with cilantro, this comforting dish is a must-try for vegetarians looking for an Asian-inspired meal.
23. Chinese Vegetarian Duck (Su Ya)
Chinese Vegetarian Duck (Su Ya) is a delightful vegan dish that mimics the appearance and flavor of traditional Chinese roast duck. It features a savory filling of shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and carrots, wrapped in layers of bean curd skin.
The dish is steamed, pan-fried, and braised to perfection, resulting in a moist and flavorful "duck" that is sure to impress. It is a great option for those looking to enjoy a vegetarian Chinese New Year feast or simply indulge in a delicious and unique appetizer.
24. Sesame Cauliflower
Sesame Cauliflower is a flavorful and easy-to-make Asian-inspired vegetarian dish. The combination of crispy cauliflower and a sweet sesame sauce is absolutely delicious. It can be made spicy by adding red pepper flakes.
The homemade sesame sauce is vegetarian and can be made vegan by swapping honey for agave. This dish is also gluten-free. Overall, Sesame Cauliflower is a tasty and healthy option for a vegetarian meal.
25. Vegan Dan Dan Noodles
Vegan Dan Dan Noodles is a delicious and satisfying Asian vegetarian recipe. This dish replaces ground meat with chopped mushrooms, adding earthiness to the spicy, nutty, and tangy flavors of the sauce.
The noodles are coated in a sauce packed with pungent and sour notes, creating a mouthwatering combination. It's a must-try for noodle lovers looking for a flavorful vegan option.
26. Stir Fried Cabbage with Glass Noodles
Stir Fried Cabbage with Glass Noodles is a delicious and easy-to-make Asian vegetarian dish. The combination of thinly julienned cabbage, tender glass noodles, and a flavorful stir fry sauce creates a satisfying and healthy meal.
The cabbage adds a refreshing crunch, while the glass noodles provide a soft and chewy texture. This recipe is perfect as a main dish or a side dish, and it's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
