Chinese Vegetarian Curry Mee Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

Updated On: October 8, 2025

If you’ve ever wandered through the vibrant hawker centers of Malaysia or Chinatown stalls, you might have encountered the irresistible aroma of curry mee. This beloved noodle soup combines the bold flavors of curry with a medley of textures and ingredients, making it a comforting and hearty meal.

Today, we’re diving into a delightful Chinese vegetarian curry mee recipe that captures all the rich spices and fragrant goodness without any meat. This version is perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to enjoy a lighter, yet equally flavorful, take on a classic.

This recipe is packed with fresh vegetables, tofu, and a creamy coconut curry broth that warms your soul. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious newbie, the step-by-step instructions will guide you through creating this delicious dish at home.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of Asian street food culture right to your kitchen. So, grab your wok and let’s get started on this comforting bowl of vegetarian curry mee!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chinese vegetarian curry mee recipe is a wonderful blend of aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and wholesome ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. It’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly nourishing and satisfying.

The best part? It’s completely vegetarian without sacrificing any of the complexity or depth you’d expect from a traditional curry mee.

The recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the veggies and add your favorite tofu or plant-based protein.

Also, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this curry mee is sure to become a regular favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

  • 200g yellow noodles or rice vermicelli
  • 200g firm tofu, cubed
  • 1 cup bean sprouts, washed
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 100g shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder (Malaysian style if possible)
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili paste (adjust to heat preference)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 400ml coconut milk
  • 500ml vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
  • Lime wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Large wok or deep skillet
  • Medium pot for boiling noodles
  • Sharp knife and chopping board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Colander or sieve
  • Serving bowls

Instructions

  1. Prepare the noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the yellow noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in the wok over medium heat. Add cubed tofu and fry until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté aromatics: In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add spices: Stir in the curry powder, turmeric powder, and chili paste. Cook for another minute to release the spices’ aromas, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  5. Add liquids: Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk. Stir well to combine everything into a smooth curry broth.
  6. Flavor the broth: Add soy sauce, tamarind paste, and salt to taste. Let the broth simmer gently for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
  7. Add vegetables: Toss in the sliced shiitake mushrooms and julienned carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
  8. Assemble the dish: Place a portion of cooked noodles into serving bowls. Ladle the hot curry broth with vegetables over the noodles.
  9. Add tofu and bean sprouts: Top each bowl with the golden tofu cubes and fresh bean sprouts for crunch.
  10. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh coriander leaves on top and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an added zest.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra depth of flavor, toast the curry powder and turmeric in the dry wok for 30 seconds before adding oil and aromatics. This will intensify the spices’ fragrance.”

You can easily swap out the shiitake mushrooms for other varieties like oyster or button mushrooms depending on availability. Adding baby corn or sliced bell peppers also works beautifully.

If you want a richer curry, add a splash of coconut cream towards the end of cooking. For a milder version, reduce or omit the chili paste.

Vegetarians who eat eggs can add a soft-boiled egg on top for extra protein.

For a gluten-free option, use rice vermicelli noodles and tamari in place of soy sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (approx.)
Calories 420 kcal
Protein 18 g
Carbohydrates 45 g
Fat 18 g
Fiber 6 g
Sodium 750 mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian curry mee is fantastic on its own as a hearty meal, but you can also complement it with some lighter sides.

Conclusion

This Chinese vegetarian curry mee recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of traditional curry mee while keeping it plant-based. It’s perfect for anyone craving a vibrant, nourishing meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.

The combination of spices, coconut milk, fresh vegetables, and tofu creates a bowl that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish is sure to impress with its layers of flavor and colorful presentation. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to suit your dietary needs or pantry staples.

For more delicious recipes to expand your culinary repertoire, check out the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe and the indulgent Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy your flavorful journey with this vegetarian curry mee!

📖 Recipe Card: Chinese Vegetarian Curry Mee

Description: A flavorful and aromatic vegetarian curry noodle soup with a rich coconut curry broth. Perfect for a comforting meal packed with vegetables and tofu.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 200g yellow egg noodles
  • 150g firm tofu, cubed
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the yellow egg noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a pot over medium heat and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
  3. Add curry powder and turmeric powder, stirring for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth and coconut milk, bring to a simmer.
  5. Add tofu cubes, carrot, and soy sauce; cook for 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  6. Add bean sprouts and cooked noodles, stir well to combine and heat through.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 35 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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