| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 200 | 12g | 1.5g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 2g | 10g | 1g |
Why I Love Chinese Vegetarian Shredded Peking Pork
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One of the things that draws me to the Vegetarian Shredded Peking Pork is its unique blend of flavors and textures. Having spent many a chilly evening in the mountains, I’ve come to appreciate meals that warm both the body and the soul. This recipe does just that, offering a rich, savory experience that’s unexpectedly vegetarian.
The Earthy Vibes of Tofu
Tofu is a magical ingredient that carries the earthy essence of natural flavors and complements the vibrant, fresh vegetables involved in this dish. Using extra-firm tofu, shredded and infused with sauces like soy and hoisin, brings an authenticity to the dish that rivals traditional Peking pork. You’ll find that the cornstarch mixture gives the tofu an irresistible, slightly crispy texture that’s addicting.
When preparing this dish, I’m often reminded of my partner, Gordon, and the countless evenings we’ve spent together cooking up hearty meals. The kitchen is our shared space of love and mutual appreciation for good food. One night, we stumbled upon a similar recipe from the brilliant chef, Jane Doe, which inspired us to bring in the flavors of China to our mountain home.
Bright and Fresh Ingredients
What also stands out in the Vegetarian Shredded Peking Pork recipe is the interplay of vibrant vegetables. The combination of julienned carrots, bell peppers, and green onions creates a colorful, visually appealing dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. These veggies add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender tofu.
The addition of minced garlic and grated ginger infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen, evoking memories of both cozy nights indoors and exotic culinary adventures. These ingredients are not just flavor enhancers but also hold wonderful health benefits. Garlic and ginger are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to boost the immune system, something I always appreciate in hearty, wholesome meals.
This recipe makes a fantastic entrée on its own but also pairs wonderfully with other Asian-inspired dishes like vegetable fried rice or a simple cucumber salad. The lettuce leaves used for serving add an additional layer of freshness, transforming the dish into light, delectable wraps perfect for summer dinners or gatherings.
In essence, the Vegetarian Shredded Peking Pork offers a satisfying dive into the rich tapestry of Chinese cuisine, adapting traditional meat-centric recipes for a modern, plant-based approach. Every bite is a delightful journey that brings a touch of the exotic to my mountain kitchen, sparking joy with each flavorful morsel.
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What You’ll Need
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and shredded
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 4 green onions, julienned
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 6 large lettuce leaves, for serving
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
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Method
Step One
Press the tofu block to remove excess moisture. Once pressed, shred the tofu using a grater or by hand into thin shreds.
Step Two
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup or sugar, and cornstarch mixture. Set aside.
Step Three
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shredded tofu and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step Four
Add the julienned carrot, red bell pepper, and green onions to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Step Five
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step Six
Pour the sauce mixture over the tofu and vegetables. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened and everything is heated through.
Step Seven
Serve the Vegetarian Shredded Peking Pork in large lettuce leaves. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy!
