Chow Fun Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Meatless Dish

Chow Fun is a classic Cantonese stir-fry dish featuring wide, flat rice noodles tossed with savory sauces and fresh vegetables. This vegetarian chow fun recipe reinvents the traditional meat-heavy dish by focusing on vibrant, plant-based ingredients that deliver just as much flavor and satisfaction.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to add more meatless meals to your repertoire, this dish is a perfect choice. The chewy rice noodles combined with crisp vegetables and umami-rich sauce create a harmony of textures and tastes that will delight your palate.

Easy to prepare and quick to cook, this chow fun recipe is a fantastic weeknight dinner that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. It’s also highly customizable, so you can add your favorite veggies or plant-based proteins to suit your taste.

Plus, it’s a great introduction to Asian-inspired cooking if you’re new to wok techniques or stir-frying. Let’s dive into why this vegetarian chow fun deserves a spot on your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh and Flavorful: This chow fun recipe combines fresh vegetables with the rich, savory flavors of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic. The result is a dish that tastes incredibly satisfying without any meat.

Quick and Easy: Ready in about 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious but don’t want to spend hours cooking.

Versatile: You can easily swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand, making this dish adaptable and budget-friendly.

Authentic Texture: The wide rice noodles provide that iconic chewy texture reminiscent of the authentic Cantonese chow fun, giving you a genuine taste experience.

Ingredients

• 8 oz fresh wide rice noodles (hor fun)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup snow peas, trimmed
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 3 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for color)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• Optional: 1/2 cup firm tofu, cubed (for added protein)

Equipment

• Wok or large non-stick skillet
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Large bowl (to soak noodles if using dried)
• Measuring spoons
• Colander (for rinsing vegetables)

Instructions

1. Prepare the noodles: If using fresh rice noodles, gently separate them to avoid breakage. If using dried, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes until pliable, then drain well.
2. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper. Set aside.
3. Heat the wok: Place your wok or skillet over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil, and swirl to coat the surface.
4. Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Cook vegetables: Add the shiitake mushrooms, onion, carrot, and snow peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
6. Add tofu (optional): If using tofu, add it now and gently toss to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes to warm through.
7. Add noodles: Gently add the rice noodles to the wok. Use the spatula to carefully toss and mix with the vegetables without breaking the noodles.
8. Pour sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and vegetables. Toss everything together to ensure even coating and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
9. Add bean sprouts and green onion tops: Stir in the bean sprouts and the green parts of the green onions. Cook for an additional minute.
10. Serve immediately: Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful vegetarian chow fun!

Tips & Variations

Tip: To achieve the best chewiness in your rice noodles, avoid over-soaking them and handle gently when stir-frying to prevent breakage.

Variation: Swap vegetables like bell peppers, bok choy, or baby corn for a seasonal twist. You can also add a splash of hoisin sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.

Tip: For a gluten-free version, make sure to use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian chow fun pairs beautifully with light sides such as a crisp cucumber salad or steamed bok choy for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, add a bowl of miso soup or spring rolls on the side.

For dessert, you might enjoy something sweet and creamy like the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe to balance the savory flavors of the chow fun.

Conclusion

Vegetarian chow fun is an outstanding dish that brings together the delightful textures and flavors of Cantonese cuisine in a wholesome and meat-free way. This recipe is perfect for anyone wanting a quick, nutritious, and delicious meal that can be easily customized based on your favorite vegetables or pantry staples.

Its simplicity and vibrant taste make it suitable for both beginners and seasoned cooks looking to add a touch of Asian flair to their dinner rotation. Plus, its quick preparation time means you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen without the fuss.

If you’re interested in exploring more flavorful recipes, check out the Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a comforting vegetable side, or try the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for a hearty, protein-packed option.

Don’t forget to add a tangy kick to your meal with the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe as an exciting condiment!

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