Chinese Vegetarian Beef and Pork Recipes You’ll Love

If you’ve ever craved the rich, savory flavors of Chinese beef and pork dishes but prefer to stick to a vegetarian diet, you’re in for a treat! Chinese vegetarian “beef” and “pork” recipes use plant-based ingredients like seitan, mushrooms, and tofu to mimic the texture and taste of meat, delivering that umami-packed satisfaction without any animal products.

These dishes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition, making them perfect for meatless Mondays or whenever you want a wholesome, comforting meal.

In this post, we’ll explore classic Chinese vegetarian beef and pork recipes that bring authenticity and depth to your dinner table. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to try something new, these recipes will delight your palate and impress your family and friends.

Let’s dive into these flavorful, easy-to-make dishes that celebrate the best of Chinese cuisine – all plant-powered!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chinese vegetarian beef and pork recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy traditional flavors while embracing a plant-based lifestyle. The use of seitan, shiitake mushrooms, and other meat substitutes provides a satisfying texture that closely resembles the original meats.

Why you’ll love them:

• Authentic taste: Careful seasoning and traditional techniques bring out classic Chinese flavors.
• Healthier twist: Lower in saturated fats and cholesterol compared to real meat dishes.
• Protein-packed: Utilizing seitan and tofu ensures you get plenty of plant-based protein.
• Versatile: Perfect for stir-fries, wraps, and noodle dishes.
• Easy to prepare: Ingredients are accessible and the steps straightforward for home cooks.

Ingredients

• For Vegetarian “Beef”:
• 1 cup vital wheat gluten (for seitan)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetarian oyster sauce (made from mushrooms)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• For Vegetarian “Pork”:
• 8 oz king oyster mushrooms, sliced into strips
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice wine or mirin
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 scallions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Additional Ingredients for Stir-Fry:
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Large skillet or wok
• Steamer or pot with steaming rack
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Small saucepan

Instructions

1. Prepare the seitan for vegetarian beef: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vital wheat gluten, five-spice powder, and garlic. In a separate bowl, mix the soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, vegetable broth, and vegetable oil.
2. Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until elastic.
3. Shape and steam seitan: Shape the dough into a log or flat disc. Place it in a steamer lined with parchment paper and steam for 30 minutes. Allow to cool, then slice thinly to resemble beef strips.
4. Prepare vegetarian pork: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add mushrooms: Add the sliced king oyster mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly browned.
6. Season mushrooms: Stir in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce coats the mushrooms well. If you want a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it now, cooking until thickened.
7. Stir-fry the vegetables: In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil over high heat. Add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, and julienned carrot. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until crisp-tender.
8. Combine all components: Add the sliced seitan (vegetarian beef) and cooked mushrooms (vegetarian pork) to the vegetables. Toss everything together and stir in soy sauce and chili paste if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
9. Finish with scallions: Sprinkle chopped scallions on top and give a final toss. Remove from heat.
10. Serve hot: Serve your vegetarian Chinese beef and pork stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute seitan with extra-firm tofu or tempeh, though the texture will differ from wheat gluten-based “meat.”

• Use shiitake or portobello mushrooms to add an even deeper umami flavor to the vegetarian pork.
• Try adding water chestnuts or bamboo shoots for extra crunch in the stir-fry.
• Adjust spice levels by adding fresh chili slices or chili oil for a kick.
• For a sweeter profile, add a teaspoon of brown sugar when cooking the vegetarian pork.
• Experiment with different vegetables such as snap peas, baby corn, or bok choy to suit your taste and seasonal availability.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian Chinese beef and pork stir-fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a hearty meal. You can also serve it over cooked noodles like lo mein or rice noodles for added texture.

For a lighter option, wrap the stir-fry in lettuce leaves to make delicious vegetarian lettuce wraps. Adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil can elevate the dish even further.

Don’t forget to explore our other tasty recipes like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a fresh vegetable side or the rich Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe if you want more hearty meals.

Conclusion

Chinese vegetarian beef and pork recipes are a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of Chinese cuisine without compromising your plant-based lifestyle. By using seitan and mushrooms as meat substitutes, you get an authentic taste and texture that will satisfy any craving for savory, umami-rich dishes.

These recipes are versatile, healthy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Whether you are new to vegetarian cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers an easy yet impressive way to bring Chinese flavors to your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables and sauces to create your own signature dish.

For more inspiration, check out our Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to add a tangy kick to your meals or try a sweet treat like the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe to finish your dinner on a high note.

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