45+ Delicious Chinese Vegetarian Recipes for a Flavorful New Year

1 week agoLast Updated: December 10, 2024

20 minutes read

Chinese New Year is a time of joy, celebration, and rich culinary traditions.

As families gather to honor the beginning of a new lunar year, food takes center stage, symbolizing prosperity, health, and good fortune.

For those seeking delicious, plant-based options to celebrate, Chinese vegetarian recipes offer a wealth of flavors, textures, and symbolic meanings.

Whether you’re preparing a feast for loved ones or just exploring vegetarian alternatives to traditional dishes, these 45+ Chinese vegetarian recipes will inspire your New Year’s meal.

From savory stir-fries to steamed dumplings, these dishes are not only vibrant and nutritious but also brimming with the deep, savory flavors that are a hallmark of Chinese cooking.

This collection of recipes ensures that your New Year’s celebrations are filled with wholesome, plant-based goodness that is sure to please everyone at the table.

45+ Delicious Chinese Vegetarian Recipes for a Flavorful New Year

As the new year unfolds, it’s the perfect time to embrace vibrant and nourishing meals that align with the spirit of renewal and hope.

These 45+ Chinese vegetarian recipes offer an array of options for those who prefer plant-based dishes during the festive season.

Packed with flavor, tradition, and symbolism, these dishes are not only a healthier alternative but also a way to explore the richness of Chinese culinary traditions in a new, meat-free way.

From tofu to lotus root and eggplant, each recipe carries a story of celebration, family, and prosperity, making them perfect for a meaningful Chinese New Year gathering.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these recipes will make your New Year’s feast memorable and delicious.

Here’s to a prosperous and flavorful new year filled with good health and happiness!

Vegetarian Chinese Dumplings (Jiaozi)

Chinese dumplings are a staple for the New Year celebration, symbolizing wealth and good fortune. This vegetarian version is packed with healthy, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant seasonings that make it a perfect dish for ringing in the new year. These dumplings are versatile and can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried to suit your preference.

Ingredients:

2 cups of napa cabbage, finely chopped

1 cup of shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped
1 carrot, grated
1/2 cup of tofu, crumbled

1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon ginger, finely chopped

1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Dumpling wrappers (about 30)

Instructions:

In a bowl, combine the napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, grated carrot, and crumbled tofu.
Add soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and rice vinegar to the vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine and set aside.

Take a dumpling wrapper and place a spoonful of the filling in the center. Moisten the edges with water and fold to seal, pinching the edges together.
Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
To steam, place the dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper, and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

Optionally, pan-fry the dumplings in a bit of sesame oil for a crispy bottom after steaming.

These vegetarian Chinese dumplings offer a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The fresh vegetables, tofu, and aromatic seasonings create a savory and satisfying filling. These dumplings are not only a delightful addition to your New Year’s feast, but they also represent good luck and prosperity, making them a meaningful dish to share with friends and family.

Vegetarian Chinese Hot Pot

Hot pot is a traditional Chinese dish often enjoyed during New Year celebrations, bringing people together around a communal pot of simmering broth. This vegetarian version is filled with an assortment of fresh vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms, creating a warm and comforting meal perfect for the festive season. The interactive nature of hot pot makes it a fun and engaging dish for a family gathering.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 medium onion, sliced

4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups water
1-inch piece of ginger, sliced

1 garlic clove, smashed
1/2 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 block firm tofu, cut into cubes
1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced

1 cup baby corn
1 cup bok choy, chopped
1 cup Chinese cabbage, chopped

1 cup sliced carrots
1 cup rice noodles (optional)
Dipping sauce (soy sauce and sesame oil)

Instructions:

In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion, ginger, and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
Pour in the vegetable broth and water, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce, stirring to combine.

Let the broth simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Prepare the vegetables and tofu, placing them in small bowls or on platters for easy access during the meal.
Once the broth is ready, bring the pot to the table and place it over a portable burner. Allow everyone to dip the tofu, vegetables, and noodles into the broth to cook for a few minutes before enjoying.

Serve with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and sesame oil.

Vegetarian Chinese hot pot is a perfect dish for New Year’s celebrations. The variety of fresh vegetables, tofu, and the umami-rich broth creates a warm, wholesome meal. This dish not only offers comfort and nourishment but also brings a sense of togetherness, as everyone gathers around the pot, cooking and enjoying the meal in a communal fashion.

Chinese Vegetable Spring Rolls

Spring rolls are a popular Chinese New Year dish, symbolizing wealth and prosperity due to their gold bar-like shape. These vegetarian spring rolls are filled with a variety of crunchy vegetables and lightly seasoned for a fresh, satisfying bite. They’re perfect for an appetizer or as part of a larger New Year’s feast, and their crisp, golden texture makes them irresistible.

Ingredients:

1 cup shredded cabbage
1/2 cup shredded carrots

1/2 cup bell pepper, julienned
1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped
2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon sugar

1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
10-12 spring roll wrappers
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

In a bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, mushrooms, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and cilantro. Mix well to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated.
Soak the spring roll wrappers in warm water for 10-15 seconds until soft, then place them on a clean surface.

Place a small amount of the vegetable mixture near the center of each wrapper. Fold in the sides and roll tightly, sealing the edges with a bit of water.
Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the spring rolls and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Remove the spring rolls from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Chinese vegetable spring rolls are the perfect crunchy bite to welcome the New Year. The colorful vegetable filling is both light and flavorful, while the golden, crispy exterior adds a satisfying crunch. These spring rolls not only bring good fortune but are a delightful appetizer or side dish for any New Year’s feast, offering a taste of prosperity with every bite.

Chinese Stir-Fried Lotus Root with Vegetables

Lotus root is a popular vegetable in Chinese cuisine, particularly during the New Year, as it symbolizes harmony and unity due to its intricate, hole-filled design. This stir-fry highlights the crisp texture of lotus root paired with colorful vegetables, creating a dish that is both visually appealing and full of flavor. The savory sauce ties everything together, making it a great side dish to share during festive celebrations.

Ingredients:

1 medium lotus root, peeled and sliced thin
1/2 cup red bell pepper, julienned
1/2 cup green beans, chopped

1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon oyster sauce (vegetarian version)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil to make the sauce. Set aside.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Add the lotus root slices and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, until they are tender but still crisp.
Add the red bell pepper, green beans, and shiitake mushrooms, and continue stir-frying for another 3-4 minutes.
Pour in the sauce mixture and toss everything together to coat evenly. Cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring all the vegetables are well-coated and heated through.

Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.

Stir-fried lotus root with vegetables is a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The lotus root offers a delightful crunch, while the savory sauce and colorful vegetables create a satisfying balance. This dish is an excellent choice for New Year’s celebrations, bringing both a delicious taste and a symbol of unity to your table.

Vegetarian Chinese Noodles (Chow Mein)

Noodles are an essential part of Chinese New Year traditions, as they represent longevity and good health. This vegetarian chow mein recipe uses tender noodles stir-fried with a variety of vegetables and seasoned with a savory sauce. It’s a quick and easy dish that can be served as a main or side, making it a versatile addition to any festive spread.

Ingredients:

8 oz chow mein noodles (or any stir-fry noodles)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1/2 cup onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup bell pepper, julienned
1/2 cup shredded cabbage

1/2 cup snow peas
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.

Add the shredded cabbage, snow peas, and garlic, and stir-fry for another 3 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and white pepper to create the sauce.
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and pour the sauce over them. Toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are well-coated and heated through.

Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.

Vegetarian Chinese noodles are a simple yet satisfying dish that embodies the essence of Chinese New Year. The noodles, often associated with longevity, are complemented by fresh vegetables and a flavorful sauce. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this recipe is sure to bring good health and happiness in the year ahead.

Chinese Steamed Vegetable Buns (Baozi)

Baozi, or steamed buns, are a beloved treat in Chinese cuisine, often served during festive occasions like the New Year. These soft, fluffy buns are filled with a savory mix of vegetables, making them a delightful vegetarian option. Their round shape symbolizes completeness and unity, making them a meaningful and delicious addition to any New Year’s feast.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped
1/2 cup napa cabbage, finely chopped
1/4 cup carrots, grated

1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil

1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
1/4 teaspoon white pepper

Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and dry yeast. Add the warm water and vegetable oil, and stir to form a dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, then cover and let it rise for 1 hour.
In the meantime, prepare the filling. Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, shiitake mushrooms, napa cabbage, and carrots, and sauté for 5-7 minutes.
Add soy sauce, five-spice powder, and white pepper, and stir until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a small circle. Place a spoonful of the vegetable filling in the center, then fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching to seal.
Place the buns on parchment paper and steam them in a bamboo steamer or a regular steamer for 15-20 minutes, or until the buns are fluffy and cooked through.

Steamed vegetable buns are not only delicious but also rich in meaning, symbolizing unity and completeness. The soft, pillowy texture of the bun combined with the flavorful vegetable filling creates a delightful bite that is perfect for celebrating the New Year. These buns are a great way to share good fortune and joy with family and friends during the festivities.

Chinese Vegetable Spring Rolls

Spring rolls are a quintessential part of Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing wealth and prosperity due to their golden, crispy appearance. These vegetarian spring rolls are filled with a colorful mixture of fresh vegetables, making them light yet flavorful. The crispy wrapper contrasts perfectly with the tender veggie filling, offering a delightful bite for any festive occasion.

Ingredients:

10 spring roll wrappers (available at Asian markets)

1/2 cup cabbage, shredded
1/2 cup carrots, julienned
1/4 cup shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped

1/4 cup bean sprouts
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
1/4 teaspoon garlic, minced
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots, shiitake mushrooms, bean sprouts, and green onions.
In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic to create the seasoning mixture. Pour it over the vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
Lay the spring roll wrappers on a flat surface and spoon a small amount of the vegetable filling into the center of each wrapper.
Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then roll tightly to form a spring roll.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium heat. Fry the spring rolls in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Serve with sweet chili dipping sauce.

Vegetable spring rolls are a crunchy, satisfying appetizer that embodies the spirit of Chinese New Year with their golden color and crispy texture. Filled with fresh vegetables and served with a sweet chili dip, they are a great way to kick off any celebration. These spring rolls are not only delicious but also symbolize wealth and prosperity for the year ahead.

Vegetarian Chinese Hot Pot

Hot pot is a communal dish often enjoyed during Chinese New Year, bringing friends and family together around the table. This vegetarian version of Chinese hot pot is packed with fresh vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms, cooked in a flavorful broth. The act of cooking the ingredients in the bubbling pot adds a sense of togetherness and warmth to your celebration.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 tablespoons miso paste
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
1-inch piece of ginger, sliced
2 garlic cloves, smashed
1/2 cup napa cabbage, chopped
1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup tofu, cubed
1/2 cup carrots, sliced
1/2 cup baby corn
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1/4 cup cilantro leaves, for garnish
Cooked rice or noodles, to serve

Instructions:

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
Add the vegetable broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, miso paste, and sesame oil. Stir to dissolve the miso and bring the broth to a simmer.
Add the napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, tofu, carrots, and baby corn to the pot. Let the ingredients cook in the broth for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
Serve the hot pot with cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro.

Vegetarian Chinese hot pot is a comforting and interactive dish that brings people together. The rich, flavorful broth combined with a variety of fresh vegetables and tofu creates a satisfying meal perfect for celebrating the New Year. It’s a warm and nourishing way to share good fortune with loved ones, while embracing the traditions of communal eating.

Chinese Braised Tofu with Mushrooms

Braised tofu is a classic Chinese dish, often served during festive occasions like the New Year. This version, featuring tender tofu simmered in a savory mushroom sauce, is hearty yet light, with an umami flavor that is both comforting and delicious. The mushrooms add an earthy depth to the dish, making it a perfect vegetarian option to share with family and friends during the celebrations.

Ingredients:

1 block firm tofu, cut into cubes
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
1/4 cup dried wood ear mushrooms, soaked and sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice wine
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
2 green onions, chopped

Instructions:

In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and pan-fry until golden on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add the shiitake mushrooms and wood ear mushrooms, sautéing until they soften, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the soy sauce, rice wine, hoisin sauce, sugar, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, then add the tofu back into the pan.
Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with chopped green onions.

Braised tofu with mushrooms is a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for any Chinese New Year celebration. The tofu soaks up the savory mushroom sauce, creating a dish that’s rich in taste and texture. This recipe is not only delicious but also a symbol of wealth and abundance, making it a meaningful and satisfying addition to your festive spread.

Chinese-style Stir-fried Broccoli with Garlic and Mushrooms

Stir-fried broccoli is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, often featured during New Year celebrations for its vibrant green color, symbolizing prosperity and good health. In this recipe, broccoli is sautéed with garlic and mushrooms in a savory sauce, resulting in a dish that is both flavorful and full of nutrients. It’s a quick and easy option that adds a touch of freshness to your holiday spread.

Ingredients:

2 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon vegetable broth
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the shiitake mushrooms to the pan and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they soften.
Add the broccoli to the pan along with soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and optional chili flakes before serving.

This stir-fried broccoli with garlic and mushrooms is a simple yet delicious dish that brings vibrant color and flavor to any Chinese New Year feast. The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic garlic creates a perfect balance of savory and earthy flavors, making it an excellent side dish to complement other dishes during the celebration. Its healthful ingredients also symbolize good fortune and vitality for the year ahead.

Chinese Vegetarian Dumplings

Dumplings are a staple during Chinese New Year, representing wealth and prosperity due to their coin-like shape. This vegetarian version is filled with a mix of vegetables, tofu, and a hint of ginger and soy sauce, offering a fresh and flavorful twist. Steamed or pan-fried, these dumplings make for a perfect appetizer or main dish during the festive season.

Ingredients:

1 cup napa cabbage, finely chopped
1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, chopped
1/4 cup tofu, crumbled
1/4 cup carrots, shredded
2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
2 teaspoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 package dumpling wrappers (available at Asian markets)
Water for sealing the dumplings
Vegetable oil for pan-frying (optional)

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, tofu, carrots, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and salt. Mix well to combine.
Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Wet the edges with a little water and fold the wrapper over to seal the dumpling, pinching the edges together.
To steam, place the dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper and steam for about 10 minutes, or until the wrappers are translucent.
To pan-fry, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the dumplings in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottoms are golden and crispy. Add a small amount of water to the pan, cover, and steam for another 4-5 minutes.
Serve with soy sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice.

Chinese vegetarian dumplings are a delicious and symbolic dish that adds a festive touch to your Chinese New Year celebration. Whether steamed or pan-fried, they are a perfect blend of savory flavors and textures. Sharing dumplings with family and friends not only represents wealth but also fosters a sense of togetherness and harmony, making them an essential dish for welcoming the new year.

Chinese Stir-fried Rice with Vegetables

Stir-fried rice is a beloved Chinese dish that symbolizes abundance and happiness, often featured in New Year celebrations. This vegetarian stir-fried rice is filled with colorful vegetables and seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil, creating a dish that is both satisfying and full of flavor. It’s an easy and versatile option that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side to complement other dishes.

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old rice works best)
1/2 cup peas
1/2 cup carrots, diced
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Instructions:

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the peas, carrots, bell pepper, and green onions to the pan, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Add the cooked rice to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables.
Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes. Stir well to coat the rice and vegetables evenly.
Continue stir-frying for 3-5 minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy at the edges.
Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

Chinese stir-fried rice with vegetables is a flavorful and easy dish that’s perfect for any New Year celebration. The combination of fresh vegetables, fragrant sesame oil, and savory soy sauce makes this rice a delightful addition to your festive spread. As a dish symbolizing abundance, it brings good fortune and joy to your table, making it an ideal way to ring in the new year.

Chinese Braised Eggplant in Garlic Sauce

Braised eggplant in garlic sauce is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, known for its deep, savory flavors and tender texture. This dish is a perfect vegetarian option for Chinese New Year, as eggplant symbolizes longevity and is often cooked in rich, flavorful sauces that pair beautifully with rice or noodles. The garlic sauce adds a punch of umami, making this dish both comforting and full of depth.

Ingredients:

2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the eggplant pieces and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until the eggplant becomes tender and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, add the garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Return the eggplant to the pan and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the eggplant to absorb the sauce.
Add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, stirring well. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Braised eggplant in garlic sauce is a delicious and rich dish that is sure to please any guest at your Chinese New Year celebration. The tender eggplant absorbs the savory garlic sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a great vegetarian choice that offers comfort, warmth, and a touch of sophistication to your festive spread.

Chinese Lotus Root Stir-fry

Lotus root is a prized ingredient in Chinese cuisine, particularly during the New Year, as it represents longevity and good fortune. This stir-fry recipe features crispy lotus root slices tossed in a savory sauce with vegetables and mushrooms. It’s a light yet flavorful dish that adds a refreshing element to your holiday meal, providing both texture and a unique taste that will captivate your guests.

Ingredients:

1 lotus root, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup bell pepper, julienned
1/4 cup carrots, julienned
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the lotus root slices and cook for 2-3 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and ginger and sauté until fragrant.
Add the shiitake mushrooms, bell pepper, and carrots to the skillet and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Add the lotus root slices to the pan, followed by the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and serve hot.

This Chinese lotus root stir-fry is a fresh, healthy, and vibrant dish that brings both flavor and texture to your Chinese New Year feast. The lotus root’s crispness pairs beautifully with the savory sauce, creating a dish that feels light yet satisfying. Perfect for a festive gathering, it represents good fortune and longevity, making it an ideal choice for the new year.

Chinese Vegetable and Tofu Stir-fry

This vegetable and tofu stir-fry is a simple yet satisfying dish packed with flavor and nutrients. Tofu, known for its versatility, soaks up the savory sauce while providing a protein-rich base. With a mix of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, and carrots, this stir-fry makes a colorful and delicious addition to any Chinese New Year celebration. It’s quick, healthy, and full of flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients:

1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1/2 cup bell pepper, sliced
1/2 cup snow peas
1/4 cup carrots, julienned
1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon water (if needed for sauce)
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove tofu and set aside.
In the same pan, add the remaining vegetable oil. Add the garlic and ginger, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the bell pepper, snow peas, carrots, and mushrooms to the pan. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Add the tofu back to the pan, followed by soy sauce, sesame oil, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, white pepper, and water if necessary to adjust the sauce consistency. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

This Chinese vegetable and tofu stir-fry is a flavorful and wholesome dish perfect for celebrating Chinese New Year. The tofu’s ability to absorb the savory sauces combined with the fresh vegetables creates a dish that is both satisfying and balanced. It’s a great vegetarian option that brings together the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine, ideal for sharing with family and friends during the festivities.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!

1 week agoLast Updated: December 10, 2024

20 minutes read