Thanks to the Buddhist cultural roots, Chinese cuisine is very vegan-friendly. Let me introduce some of the popular vegan ingredients besides regular tofu.
FRIED GLUTEN BALLS
Fried gluten balls are made from wheat gluten. It is a good meat substitute. Some say the texture is meat-like, but they have their unique traits. They are crunchy when uncooked and soft yet al dente when cooked.
Note:
Add them to soups.
Or soak them in hot water until soft and add them to stir-fries.
TOFU PUFFS
Fried tofu or tofu puffs are another popular soybean product in China. You can add them to your stir-fried dishes or soups. Similar to fried gluten balls, tofu puffs are airy inside. They will soak up the sauces, making them very flavorful. Note:
Add them to soups, braised dishes, or stews
Or soak them in hot water until soft and add them to stir-fries.
TOFU SKINS
Tofu Skins are available fresh or dried. They are great ingredients in stir-fries, soups, and salads. They have a soft texture.
Note:
Soak dried tofu skins in lukewarm water until soft and add to your dishes.
TOFU SHEETS
Cut tofu sheets into any shapes you like and add them into stir-fries, soups, or salads.
SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS
Dried shiitake mushrooms are used the same way as fresh mushrooms. Dried shiitake mushrooms have a more intense aroma and flavor created by the drying process (sometimes smoking).
Note:
Soak dried mushrooms in water for at least one hour until soft before cooking.
BLACK WOOD EAR (FUNGUS)
Black wood ears (black fungi) are wild mushrooms. Don't let the name scare you. You will love the slightly slippery surface and crispy texture. They are in Chinese stir-fried dishes, salads, and soups. This food is also high in fiber and antioxidants.
Note:
Soak dried mushrooms in water for at least 30 min or until.
Blanch fresh wood ears before cooking.
BAMBOO SHOOTS
Though this is not the bamboo season, you can still get frozen, caned, and vacuum-sealed ones. Like shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots are umami-rich food and have a crispy texture. Winter bamboo shoots are chubbier and have more flavor, and spring bamboo shoots are tender.
Note: Blanch bamboo shoots to remove the earthiness. And them to soups, stews, salads, and stir-fries.
Let me know if you are interested in learning more about Chinese vegan ingredients or one of the ingredients above.
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