Chinese Vegan Meat Recipe Sauteed String Beans Made Easy

Updated On: October 8, 2025

Chinese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and dynamic textures. One of the most popular dishes that perfectly showcases these qualities is the classic sautéed string beans.

But what if you want to enjoy this dish while keeping it 100% vegan and packed with protein? Enter our Chinese Vegan Meat Recipe: Sautéed String Beans.

This recipe combines tender, crisp string beans with savory vegan meat alternatives, infused with traditional Chinese aromatics like garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. It’s a perfect balance of umami and freshness, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Whether you’re a vegan veteran, someone looking to cut down on meat, or simply craving a delicious vegetable stir-fry, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Plus, the vibrant green beans make for a visually appealing plate that’s as delightful to see as it is to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chinese vegan meat sautéed string beans dish offers a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy both vegans and non-vegans alike. The vegan meat adds a hearty, meaty texture without any animal products, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also uses simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates an irresistible aroma and depth of flavor that will have your whole family asking for seconds.

Additionally, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can customize the spice level, add different vegetables, or swap the vegan meat for tofu or tempeh.

It’s a nutritious, protein-packed meal that fits perfectly into any vegan or plant-based lifestyle.

Ingredients

  • 400g fresh string beans, trimmed and halved
  • 200g vegan meat strips (seitan or soy-based works best)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional, for color and depth)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (or maple syrup)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large wok or non-stick skillet
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Grater (for ginger)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the string beans: Wash and trim the ends of the string beans, then cut them into approximately 2-inch pieces. Set aside.
  2. Heat the wok: Place your wok or skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the wok. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
  4. Add vegan meat: Toss in the vegan meat strips and stir-fry them for 3-4 minutes until they start to brown slightly and crisp up on the edges.
  5. Cook the string beans: Add the string beans to the wok and stir well to combine with the garlic, ginger, and vegan meat.
  6. Season the dish: Pour in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), sugar, and vegetable broth. Toss everything together and cover the wok for 3-4 minutes to allow the beans to steam and become tender but still crisp.
  7. Finish with sesame oil and chili flakes: Remove the lid and stir again. Drizzle the sesame oil and sprinkle chili flakes if you want a bit of heat. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the liquid has mostly evaporated.
  8. Plate and garnish: Transfer the sautéed string beans and vegan meat mixture to a serving dish. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color.
  9. Serve hot: Enjoy immediately with steamed rice or your favorite noodles.

Tips & Variations

For the crispiest beans, soak them in ice water for 10 minutes before cooking.

If you can’t find vegan meat strips, firm tofu or tempeh work beautifully as substitutes.

Add a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of five-spice powder for a different flavor profile.

Feel free to increase or decrease the chili flakes depending on your heat tolerance. For a more substantial meal, toss in some sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or water chestnuts.

This dish also reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 220 kcal
Protein 18 g
Fat 10 g
Carbohydrates 15 g
Fiber 5 g
Sodium 600 mg

Serving Suggestions

This sautéed string beans and vegan meat dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy steamed jasmine or brown rice. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles.

You can also complement the meal with other Chinese-inspired vegan dishes such as a simple cucumber salad or hot and sour soup. If you enjoy experimenting with flavors, try pairing it with a light dipping sauce made from soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and a dash of chili oil.

For more recipe inspiration, check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or explore hearty options like the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe. If you love a spicy kick, don’t miss the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe.

Conclusion

Our Chinese Vegan Meat Recipe: Sautéed String Beans is a delightful dish that marries the freshness of crisp string beans with the rich umami of vegan meat. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for anyone seeking a wholesome, plant-based meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers versatility and nutrition in every bite. Its balanced ingredients make it suitable for various dietary preferences while still delivering that authentic Chinese stir-fry experience.

Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite vegan dish!

📖 Recipe Card: Chinese Vegan Meat Recipe Sauteed String Beans

Description: A delicious and savory vegan dish featuring sautéed string beans and plant-based meat in a flavorful Chinese-style sauce. Perfect as a main or side dish for a healthy meal.

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

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 300g string beans, trimmed
  • 150g vegan meat substitute (e.g., seitan or soy-based strips)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. Blanch string beans in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
  3. Add minced garlic and ginger, sauté until fragrant.
  4. Add vegan meat substitute and cook until lightly browned.
  5. Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and chili flakes.
  6. Add string beans and water, stir well to combine.
  7. Cook for 5-7 minutes until sauce thickens and beans are tender.
  8. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 16 g

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Marta K

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