Chinese Vegan Recipes Book: Delicious Plant-Based Dishes

Updated On: October 8, 2025

Exploring the vibrant world of Chinese vegan cuisine opens up a treasure trove of flavors, textures, and health benefits. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, “Chinese Vegan Recipes Book” offers an inspiring collection of dishes that bring authentic Chinese cooking to your kitchen—without any animal products.

From savory stir-fries to comforting soups and tantalizing dumplings, these recipes highlight the rich tradition of Chinese culinary arts while embracing modern plant-based lifestyles. This blog post will guide you through some favorite recipes from the book, providing detailed instructions, tips, and nutritional insights to help you create delicious and wholesome meals that everyone will love.

Vegan Chinese food is more than just a trend; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients, umami flavors, and centuries-old cooking techniques. Get ready to dive into recipes that are easy to prepare, full of color, and packed with nutrients.

And if you’re curious about expanding your plant-based repertoire further, check out our other recipes like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or indulge your sweet tooth with our Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe.

Ready to master Chinese vegan cooking? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chinese vegan recipes combine the best of tradition and innovation. The dishes are naturally rich in vegetables, tofu, and plant-based proteins, making them both nutritious and satisfying.

These recipes are designed to be accessible for cooks of all levels, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced chef.

You’ll appreciate the balance of fresh herbs, bold spices, and umami-rich sauces that create complex flavors without relying on meat or dairy. Plus, these recipes are versatile, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

The plant-based approach also means they’re great for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking to eat more sustainably.

Ingredients

  • Firm tofu – 1 block (about 14 oz), pressed and cubed
  • Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons (use low sodium if preferred)
  • Sesame oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Fresh ginger – 1 tablespoon, finely grated
  • Garlic cloves – 3, minced
  • Green onions – 4, sliced thinly
  • Shiitake mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced
  • Baby bok choy – 2 heads, chopped
  • Carrot – 1 medium, julienned
  • Vegetable broth – 1 cup
  • Rice vinegar – 1 tablespoon
  • Maple syrup – 1 teaspoon
  • Cornstarch – 1 teaspoon (optional, for thickening)
  • Cooked jasmine rice – for serving

Equipment

  • Large non-stick skillet or wok
  • Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
  • Cutting board
  • Bowl for mixing sauce
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Rice cooker or pot for cooking rice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tofu: Press the tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into bite-sized cubes.
  2. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and cornstarch. Stir well and set aside.
  3. Heat the skillet: Warm the sesame oil over medium-high heat in your skillet or wok.
  4. Sauté aromatics: Add the grated ginger and minced garlic to the hot oil. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Cook tofu: Add the cubed tofu and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning gently until all sides are golden brown.
  6. Add vegetables: Toss in the shiitake mushrooms, baby bok choy, carrots, and half of the green onions. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
  7. Pour sauce and broth: Add the prepared sauce and vegetable broth to the pan. Stir everything well and allow the sauce to thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
  8. Final touches: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with the remaining green onions.
  9. Serve: Spoon the stir-fry over cooked jasmine rice and enjoy hot.

Tips & Variations

To get the best texture on your tofu, pressing it thoroughly is key! You can also marinate tofu cubes in soy sauce and a little chili paste before cooking for extra flavor.

Feel free to swap baby bok choy for other greens like spinach or Chinese broccoli. For an added protein boost, try adding cooked edamame or tempeh.

Looking for a gluten-free version? Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check your broth labels.

For a spicy kick, add sliced fresh chili or a drizzle of chili oil just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 280 kcal
Protein 18 g
Carbohydrates 20 g
Fat 12 g
Fiber 5 g
Sodium 600 mg

Serving Suggestions

This stir-fry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a heartier meal. You can also serve it alongside Passover Zucchini Kugel Recipe for a delightful fusion of textures and flavors.

For an appetizer, complement the dish with simple steamed dumplings or a fresh cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds. A light jasmine tea or chilled green tea enhances the meal’s delicate flavors.

Conclusion

Embarking on a journey through Chinese vegan recipes is a wonderful way to discover the harmony between nutrition, tradition, and taste. By using fresh vegetables, tofu, and carefully balanced seasonings, these dishes bring the essence of Chinese cuisine to your table in a wholesome, plant-based form.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these recipes are designed to be easy to follow and adaptable to your preferences. Don’t forget to experiment and add your personal touch!

For more recipe inspiration, explore our collection including the Pecan Crackers Recipe or the delightful Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and nourishing benefits of Chinese vegan cooking every day!

📖 Recipe Card: Mapo Tofu (Vegan)

Description: A spicy and flavorful Sichuan classic made vegan with tofu and mushrooms. Perfectly balanced with bold flavors and a rich, numbing sauce.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 400g firm tofu, cubed
  • 100g shiitake mushrooms, chopped
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, minced
  • 2 tbsp doubanjiang (fermented chili bean paste)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic, ginger, and doubanjiang; stir-fry for 1 minute.
  3. Add mushrooms and cook until softened.
  4. Gently add tofu cubes and stir carefully.
  5. Pour in soy sauce, sugar, and vegetable broth; simmer for 5 minutes.
  6. Add Sichuan peppercorns and green onions.
  7. Stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce.
  8. Cook for another 2 minutes and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 14 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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