Cheap Vegan Chinese Recipes for Quick and Easy Meals

Chinese cuisine is a global favorite, renowned for its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and vibrant colors. But did you know you can whip up delicious Chinese-inspired dishes at home without breaking the bank?

Whether you’re a college student, a busy parent, or simply trying to eat healthy on a budget, these cheap vegan Chinese recipes will hit the spot. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or specialty equipment—just a few pantry staples, fresh veggies, and a sense of adventure in the kitchen.

From sizzling stir-fries to comforting noodle bowls and crispy tofu delights, this listicle will guide you through easy, affordable, and 100% plant-based Chinese classics that everyone will love.

Read on for three of my favorite recipes: Tofu & Vegetable Stir-Fry, Budget-Friendly Vegan Fried Rice, and Cabbage & Carrot Dumplings. Each recipe is wallet-friendly, packed with flavor, and perfect for satisfying those takeout cravings at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive, easily found ingredients for maximum savings.
• Fast & Easy: Most recipes take less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Healthy: Packed with fresh veggies and plant-based protein for a nourishing meal.
• Customizable: Swap in whatever vegetables or protein you have on hand.
• Family-Friendly: Mild, familiar flavors make these dishes a hit with all ages.
• Meal Prep Ready: Great for leftovers and easy lunches throughout the week.

Cheap Vegan Chinese Recipes Listicle

Tofu & Vegetable Stir-Fry

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Cutting board and knife
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Tofu press or heavy plate to drain tofu

Instructions

1. Drain and press the tofu for at least 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
2. If you want crispy tofu, toss cubes with cornstarch in a bowl until lightly coated.
3. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high. Add tofu cubes and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden. Remove and set aside.
4. Add the remaining oil to the pan. Sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add broccoli, carrot, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes, until vegetables are just tender but still crisp.
6. Return tofu to the pan. Pour in soy sauce and toss everything together to coat well. Cook for another 2 minutes.
7. Garnish with green onions and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Tips & Variations

• Switch up the veggies: Use snap peas, mushrooms, or cabbage based on what’s cheapest or in season.
• Try different sauces: Add a spoonful of hoisin or chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
• For extra crunch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.
• If you’re short on time, use frozen stir-fry vegetable blends.

Pro Tip: Pressing tofu is an essential step for the best texture. If you don’t have a tofu press, wrap the block in a clean towel and weigh it down with a heavy book or plate!

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition information is estimated and will vary depending on exact ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with steamed white or brown rice for a complete meal.
• Add a side of vegan spring rolls or a simple cucumber salad.
• Serve in meal prep bowls for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Budget-Friendly Vegan Fried Rice

Ingredients

Equipment

• Nonstick skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
2. Add crumbled tofu and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring, until lightly golden. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Add frozen vegetables and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
4. Add cooked rice and break up any clumps. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, allowing the rice to get slightly crispy in spots.
5. Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil. Toss everything together until evenly coated and fragrant.
6. Stir in green onions and taste for seasoning. Adjust with extra soy sauce or pepper if needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with more green onions if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Day-old rice works best as it’s drier and fries up beautifully.
• Add a pinch of turmeric for color or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
• Use up leftover cooked veggies like broccoli, mushrooms, or cabbage.
• Try adding a sprinkle of Lion’s Mane Mushroom Crumble for an umami boost.

Budget Hack: Save money by buying rice and frozen veggies in bulk!

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition facts are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients you use.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a main dish or as a side to your favorite stir-fry.
• Top with chili flakes, sriracha, or extra green onions.
• For a fun twist, use the fried rice as a filling for lettuce wraps.

Cabbage & Carrot Dumplings

Ingredients

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Large skillet or nonstick pan with lid
• Grater
• Knife and cutting board
• Small bowl (for water)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrot, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and pepper. Mix well and let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Place 1 heaping teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Wet the edges with water and fold to seal, forming a half-moon shape. Pinch edges to crimp.
3. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add dumplings in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes until bottoms are golden.
4. Add 1/4 cup water to the pan and cover immediately. Steam for 4-5 minutes, until wrappers are tender and water has evaporated.
5. Repeat with remaining dumplings, adding more oil as needed. Serve hot with soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

• Mix in mushrooms, tofu, or chopped spinach for extra protein or flavor.
• Steam instead of pan-fry for a lower-fat option.
• Freeze uncooked dumplings for quick meals later on—they cook straight from frozen!
• Try pairing with a homemade sweet and sour sauce, like La Choy Sweet And Sour Sauce Recipes.

Did you know? Making dumplings is a fun family activity—invite friends or kids to help shape and fill!

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition based on store-bought wrappers; adjust if using homemade.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as an appetizer or a main dish with steamed rice.
• Pair with a quick cucumber salad or Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.
• Great for lunchboxes or party platters!

Conclusion

Cooking vegan Chinese food at home is not only possible—it’s easy, delicious, and incredibly affordable. With basic ingredients like tofu, rice, cabbage, and carrots, you can create satisfying meals that are both healthy and budget-friendly.

These recipes prove you don’t need takeout or expensive specialty foods to enjoy classic Chinese flavors.

Whether you’re new to plant-based eating or a seasoned pro, these cheap vegan Chinese recipes will keep you inspired in the kitchen. Try mixing and matching the dishes, or experiment with your own twists using whatever’s in your fridge.

Looking for more budget-friendly ideas? Explore recipes like Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes for even more plant-based inspiration.

Happy cooking, and enjoy your homemade Chinese feast!

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