Chinese Vegetarian Mock Meat Recipes for Delicious Meals

Chinese vegetarian mock meat recipes offer a delightful way to enjoy the rich and diverse flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine without using any animal products. These recipes utilize plant-based proteins such as tofu, seitan, and textured vegetable protein (TVP) to mimic the texture and taste of meat, making them perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption.

With bold seasonings, vibrant vegetables, and satisfying textures, these dishes are both nutrient-packed and incredibly flavorful.

Whether you’re a seasoned plant-based cook or new to vegetarian Chinese dishes, these mock meat recipes will impress your palate and satisfy your cravings. In this blog post, we’ll explore three popular Chinese vegetarian mock meat recipes that you can easily recreate at home: Vegetarian Kung Pao Chicken, Braised Mock Pork Belly, and Spicy Mock Duck Stir-Fry.

Each recipe brings its own unique flavors and textures, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chinese vegetarian mock meat recipes are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They capture the essence of traditional Chinese flavors without compromising on texture or taste.

Plus, they’re packed with plant-based protein, making them a nutritious alternative to meat.

By using accessible ingredients like tofu skin, seitan, and mushrooms, you can enjoy dishes that feel indulgent yet light. These recipes also cater to various dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free options (with minor ingredient swaps).

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these recipes will bring the vibrant, savory flavors of China right to your table.

Ingredients

Vegetarian Kung Pao “Chicken”

• 200g firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 dried red chilies
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, minced
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

Braised Vegetarian “Pork Belly”

• 150g tofu skin (yuba), sliced into strips
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 star anise
• 2 slices ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Spicy Mock Duck Stir-Fry

• 200g seitan (mock duck), sliced thinly
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili bean paste (Doubanjiang)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Equipment

• Wok or large frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Small bowl for cornstarch slurry
• Serving plates

Instructions

Vegetarian Kung Pao “Chicken”

1. Prepare the tofu: Press tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
2. Toast peanuts: In a dry pan, toast peanuts until golden and fragrant. Set aside.
3. Cook tofu: Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and fry until all sides are golden brown. Remove tofu and set aside.
4. Sauté aromatics: Add dried chilies, garlic, and ginger to the wok. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Combine sauce: Mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and sugar in a small bowl.
6. Stir-fry vegetables: Add green onions to the wok and stir-fry briefly.
7. Add tofu and sauce: Return tofu to the wok, pour in the sauce mixture, and stir well to coat.
8. Thicken sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry and stir continuously until sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
9. Finish: Toss in toasted peanuts, mix gently, and remove from heat.

Braised Vegetarian “Pork Belly”

1. Prepare tofu skin: Soak tofu skin strips in warm water for 10 minutes until pliable. Drain well.
2. Heat oil: Warm vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
3. Sauté aromatics: Add ginger and garlic, cooking until fragrant but not browned.
4. Add tofu skin: Stir-fry tofu skin strips for 2-3 minutes to coat in oil and aromatics.
5. Add liquids: Pour in soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and vegetable broth.
6. Add star anise: Toss in star anise for that signature Chinese braise flavor.
7. Simmer: Cover and simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Reduce sauce: Remove the lid and increase heat to medium-high to reduce the sauce until it thickens and coats the tofu skin strips.
9. Serve warm: Discard star anise and serve immediately.

Spicy Mock Duck Stir-Fry

1. Prepare ingredients: Slice seitan thinly, chop peppers, garlic, and green onions.
2. Heat wok: Add vegetable oil and sesame oil to the wok over medium-high heat.
3. Sauté garlic: Add minced garlic and chili bean paste, stir-fry for 30 seconds until aromatic.
4. Add seitan: Toss in the sliced mock duck and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly crispy.
5. Add vegetables: Add red and green bell peppers, stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until just tender.
6. Season: Pour in soy sauce and sprinkle sugar. Stir well to combine and heat through.
7. Add green onions: Toss in chopped green onions and give a final stir.
8. Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Tofu Pressing: Pressing tofu is crucial for getting a firm texture that mimics meat. Use a tofu press or place tofu between two plates with a weight on top.

Alternative Mock Meats: If you cannot find tofu skin or seitan, mushrooms like king oyster mushrooms can be sliced thickly and used as a substitute, especially for the mock pork belly recipe.

Adjusting Spice Level: Control the amount of dried chilies or chili bean paste to suit your heat tolerance.

Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and substitute seitan with extra firm tofu or mushrooms.

Batch Cooking: These recipes reheat well and can be made in advance for meal prep.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These Chinese vegetarian mock meat dishes pair wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice. For a lighter option, serve alongside stir-fried greens like bok choy, Chinese broccoli, or snow peas.

Adding a simple cucumber salad with sesame dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors.

Try complementing your meal with some traditional Chinese sides such as hot and sour soup or steamed dumplings (vegetarian versions). For dessert, why not explore the delightful Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe for a creamy finish?

Conclusion

Chinese vegetarian mock meat recipes open up a world of flavorful, satisfying dishes that honor the rich culinary traditions of China while staying plant-based. Whether you’re craving the spicy kick of Kung Pao “chicken,” the savory depth of braised mock pork belly, or the fiery zest of spicy mock duck stir-fry, these recipes are sure to impress.

With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and room for customization, these dishes are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy authentic tastes with a vegetarian twist. Give them a try and discover just how delicious and fulfilling plant-based Chinese cooking can be.

For more inspiring recipes and cooking tips, check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or the hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe.

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