Chinese Vegetarian Butter Prawn Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

If you love the rich, buttery goodness of traditional Chinese butter prawn but prefer a vegetarian twist, you’re in for a treat! This Chinese Vegetarian Butter Prawn recipe captures all the creamy, savory flavors you crave without any seafood.

Using king oyster mushrooms or store-bought vegetarian prawns, this dish offers a delightful texture and taste that will satisfy both vegetarians and seafood lovers alike.

Perfect as a special weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests, this recipe combines a luscious buttery sauce with aromatic garlic, fresh curry leaves, and a hint of spice. It’s easy to prepare, quick to cook, and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles.

Dive into this flavorful journey that brings the essence of Chinese cuisine to your vegetarian kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian butter prawn recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Chinese butter prawn without using any animal products. It’s:

• Rich and creamy: The buttery sauce coats the mushrooms or vegetarian prawns perfectly, delivering deep flavor in every bite.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Customizable: Easily adapt with your preferred vegetarian substitute or spice level.
• Impressive presentation: This dish looks restaurant-worthy, making it great for special occasions.
• Healthy and satisfying: Packed with plant-based protein and minimal oil, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients

• 250g king oyster mushrooms (or vegetarian prawns)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4-5 fresh curry leaves
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 green chili, sliced (optional for heat)
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp white pepper
• 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Equipment

• Large non-stick frying pan or wok
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Small bowl for cornstarch slurry

Instructions

1. Prepare the mushrooms: Clean the king oyster mushrooms with a damp cloth. Slice them into prawn-sized pieces lengthwise to mimic the shape and texture of prawns.
2. Heat the pan: In a large frying pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until melted and hot.
3. Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped onion, sliced green chili, and curry leaves. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onions are translucent.
4. Cook mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until they are golden and slightly crispy on the edges, resembling the texture of cooked prawns.
5. Add seasoning: Pour in the soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine.
6. Create the butter sauce: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and water or vegetable broth. Stir and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2 minutes.
7. Thicken the sauce: Slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the mushrooms beautifully.
8. Finish with lemon juice: Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon juice for a fresh, tangy balance to the buttery richness.
9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh coriander leaves on top. Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

Using king oyster mushrooms gives a meaty texture that closely mimics prawns, but you can also try store-bought vegetarian prawns or tofu slices for different textures.

• Make it vegan: Substitute butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil.
• Adjust spice level: Add more green chili or a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat.
• Add veggies: Throw in bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch and color.
• Use cashew cream: For an ultra-rich sauce, replace part of the water with cashew cream.
• Storage: This dish tastes best fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian butter prawn pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice. For a light option, serve with stir-fried noodles or a fresh Asian-style cucumber salad.

For a complete meal, consider adding a side of sautéed greens or a bowl of hot and sour soup. If you want to explore more delicious vegetarian dishes, check out Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or indulge your sweet tooth with the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe.

Conclusion

This Chinese Vegetarian Butter Prawn recipe brings the best of both worlds: the indulgence of a buttery, savory sauce and the wholesome goodness of plant-based ingredients. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy classic Chinese flavors while sticking to a vegetarian lifestyle or simply trying something new in the kitchen.

Easy to prepare and adaptable to your taste, this dish is sure to become a favorite for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetarian substitutes and spice levels to make it your own.

And when you’re ready for your next culinary adventure, visit our Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe or try the zingy Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe for a burst of flavor.

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