Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

Nasi lemak is a beloved Malaysian classic, famous for its rich and fragrant coconut rice paired with an array of savory sides. But did you know you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian twist on this iconic dish with a Chinese influence?

Chinese vegetarian nasi lemak is a delightful fusion that brings together the creamy coconut rice, crunchy peanuts, and spicy sambal, enhanced with Chinese-style mushrooms, tofu, and pickled vegetables.

This recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a hearty, meat-free meal without compromising on flavor or tradition. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply curious to try something new, this dish promises a satisfying balance of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for more.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through making this vibrant and aromatic Chinese vegetarian nasi lemak from scratch. You’ll learn how to prepare the coconut rice perfectly, whip up a flavorful sambal without seafood, and create tasty Chinese-inspired side dishes.

Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chinese vegetarian nasi lemak recipe stands out for its unique blend of traditional Malaysian flavors with Chinese vegetarian elements. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Rich and fragrant coconut rice: Cooked with pandan leaves and coconut milk for an authentic aroma and creamy texture.
• Vegetarian-friendly sambal: Made without shrimp paste or anchovies, using mushrooms and soy sauce to create umami depth.
• Chinese-inspired sides: Featuring stir-fried shiitake mushrooms, crispy tofu, and pickled vegetables for a delightful texture contrast.
• Balanced flavors: The combination of spicy, sweet, salty, and nutty elements makes every bite exciting.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether a family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish impresses with its vibrant presentation and satisfying taste.

Ingredients

• For the Coconut Rice:
• 2 cups jasmine rice
• 1 1/2 cups coconut milk
• 1 cup water
• 2 pandan leaves, tied in a knot
• 1 teaspoon salt
• For the Vegetarian Sambal:
• 3 dried red chilies, soaked and chopped
• 2 fresh red chilies, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon tamarind paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Salt to taste
• For the Sides:
• 200g firm tofu, cubed and fried until golden
• 1 cup roasted peanuts
• 1 cucumber, sliced thinly
• 1 cup stir-fried shiitake mushrooms with garlic and soy sauce
• 1/2 cup pickled carrots and radish (optional)

Equipment

• Rice cooker or pot with lid
• Blender or food processor
• Frying pan or wok
• Knife and chopping board
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Serving plates or banana leaves for presentation

Instructions

1. Prepare the coconut rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. In a rice cooker or pot, combine the rice, coconut milk, water, pandan leaves, and salt. Stir gently to mix.
3. Cook the rice according to your rice cooker’s instructions or bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer covered for 15-20 minutes until rice is fluffy and liquid absorbed.
4. Remove pandan leaves and fluff the rice with a fork. Keep warm.
5. Make the vegetarian sambal: In a blender or food processor, combine dried red chilies, fresh red chilies, onion, and garlic. Blend to a coarse paste, adding a little water if necessary.
6. Heat oil in a frying pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chili paste and sauté for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
7. Add the diced shiitake mushrooms and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until softened.
8. Mix in tamarind paste, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
9. Season with salt to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
10. Prepare the sides: Cube the tofu and fry in hot oil until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
11. Stir-fry shiitake mushrooms with minced garlic and a splash of soy sauce until tender, about 3 minutes.
12. Slice cucumber thinly and prepare pickled carrots and radish if desired.
13. Assemble the nasi lemak plates: Place a mound of coconut rice on each plate.
14. Arrange tofu cubes, roasted peanuts, cucumber slices, stir-fried mushrooms, and a generous spoonful of sambal around the rice.
15. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful, vegetarian feast!

Tips & Variations

“For an extra depth of flavor in the sambal, try roasting the dried chilies before blending. This brings out a smoky sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.”

• You can substitute shiitake mushrooms with oyster or button mushrooms if preferred.
• Add a boiled egg or vegan egg alternative for additional protein.
• Try adding fried tempeh or mock meat for a different texture and flavor.
• For a less spicy version, reduce the number of fresh chilies or remove the seeds.
• Use banana leaves to serve for an authentic presentation and subtle aroma.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Chinese vegetarian nasi lemak pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of jasmine tea or iced chrysanthemum tea to cleanse the palate between bites.

For a complete meal, serve with a side of fresh fruit like pineapple or mango to add a sweet contrast to the spicy sambal.

You can also include some crispy prawn crackers or vegetarian spring rolls as an appetizer to complement the flavors and textures.

Conclusion

This Chinese vegetarian nasi lemak recipe is a vibrant and flavorful way to experience a Malaysian classic without meat or seafood. The fragrant coconut rice, spicy and umami-packed sambal, and crunchy sides create a harmonious balance that delights your taste buds with every bite.

Whether you’re cooking for a vegetarian friend or exploring new culinary horizons, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to make it your own. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might love exploring more delightful dishes like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe, Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe, or the tangy and flavorful Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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