Chinese Food Recipes Vegetarian Video: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Updated On: October 8, 2025

Chinese cuisine is renowned worldwide for its rich flavors, diverse ingredients, and vibrant cooking techniques. For vegetarians, Chinese food offers a treasure trove of delicious options that are both satisfying and nutritious.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to try something new, this post will guide you through some fantastic vegetarian Chinese recipes captured in easy-to-follow video tutorials. These recipes highlight fresh vegetables, tofu, and traditional sauces that create authentic dishes bursting with flavor.

Cooking vegetarian Chinese food at home is not only healthy but also a fun way to explore a different culture’s culinary art.

If you’ve ever wanted to master dishes like stir-fried vegetables, mapo tofu without meat, or vegetable fried rice, these recipes will be your perfect companion. Plus, with video guidance, you can visually follow each step to ensure perfect results every time.

Dive into the world of vegetarian Chinese cooking and impress your family and friends with these mouthwatering meals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegetarian Chinese recipes are perfect for anyone seeking a wholesome, flavorful meal without the need for meat. They are:

  • Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and clear video instructions, even beginners can recreate these dishes.
  • Nutritious and balanced: Loaded with fresh vegetables, plant-based proteins, and aromatic spices.
  • Customizable: You can easily swap or add ingredients based on your preference or what’s available in your pantry.
  • Authentic taste: Using traditional sauces like soy, hoisin, and sesame oil, these recipes deliver true Chinese flavors.

Ingredients

  • 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced thin
  • 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional for spice)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, sliced thin for garnish
  • 1 cup cooked jasmine rice (for serving)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening sauce)

Equipment

  • Large wok or frying pan
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Serving plates or bowls

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tofu: Press the tofu for 15-20 minutes to remove excess water. Then cut into 1-inch cubes.
  2. Heat the wok: Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to a hot wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook the tofu: Add the cubed tofu and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. Remove tofu and set aside.
  4. Sauté aromatics: Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger, stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add vegetables: Add broccoli, bell pepper, and shiitake mushrooms. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  6. Create sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, chili paste, and sesame oil.
  7. Combine tofu and sauce: Return tofu to the wok and pour the sauce mixture over everything. Stir well to coat all ingredients.
  8. Thicken sauce (optional): Add the cornstarch-water mixture and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
  9. Final touch: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with sliced green onions.
  10. Serve hot: Plate the stir-fry with steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

“For an even richer flavor, marinate your tofu in soy sauce and a little garlic for 15 minutes before cooking.”

  • Try swapping broccoli with bok choy or snap peas for a different texture.
  • Add cashews or peanuts for a crunchy contrast.
  • Use tempeh instead of tofu for a nuttier taste and more protein.
  • Increase spice level by adding fresh sliced chili or more chili paste.
  • For a gluten-free version, use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 320 kcal
Protein 18 g
Carbohydrates 28 g
Fat 14 g
Fiber 6 g
Sodium 650 mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian Chinese stir-fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a healthier boost. You can also serve it alongside vegetable spring rolls or a simple cucumber salad to balance the meal.

For a more filling experience, add a bowl of hot and sour soup or egg drop soup on the side.

If you’re looking to expand your vegetarian Asian cooking repertoire, check out other delicious recipes like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or discover creative ways to enjoy plant-based meals with our Pecan Crackers Recipe.

More Chinese Vegetarian Recipes To Try

Vegetable Fried Rice

A simple yet flavorful dish that combines mixed vegetables, scrambled eggs (optional), and rice stir-fried with soy sauce and sesame oil. Perfect for using leftover rice and veggies.

Mapo Tofu (Vegetarian Version)

This classic Sichuan dish is adapted with mushrooms replacing ground meat, keeping the spicy, numbing flavors intact. The key is to use fermented black beans and chili oil to mimic the authentic taste.

Stir-Fried Eggplant with Garlic Sauce

Succulent eggplant slices cooked in a savory garlic and soy sauce blend, garnished with fresh scallions. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and easy to make.

Chinese Broccoli with Oyster Sauce (Vegetarian)

Blanched Chinese broccoli drizzled with vegetarian oyster sauce made from mushrooms, creating a simple, healthy side dish.

Conclusion

Exploring vegetarian Chinese food through these recipes is a wonderful way to enjoy vibrant flavors without meat. With fresh vegetables, tofu, and traditional sauces, you can create meals that are not only delicious but also nourishing and satisfying.

The step-by-step video guidance makes the cooking process approachable for all skill levels, ensuring success in your kitchen adventures. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these recipes will bring a refreshing twist to your meal planning.

For more creative recipes and culinary inspiration, be sure to explore other dishes like the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe, which pairs beautifully with Asian meals, or try the sweet treats like the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe for dessert.

Happy cooking and enjoy your flavorful journey into vegetarian Chinese cuisine!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegetarian Chinese Stir-Fry

Description: A quick and flavorful vegetarian Chinese stir-fry packed with fresh vegetables and tofu. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT30M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 200g firm tofu, cubed
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup snap peas
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add tofu cubes and stir-fry until golden, then remove and set aside.
  3. Add garlic and ginger to the wok; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
  4. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and snap peas; cook for 5-7 minutes.
  5. Return tofu to the wok; pour in soy sauce and sesame oil.
  6. Add cornstarch mixture and stir until sauce thickens.
  7. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 15 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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