Asia, a tapestry of vibrant cultures and captivating flavours, boasts a vegetarian culinary scene- bursting with creativity and deliciousness. Be the fragrant curries of Southeast Asia or the savoury stir-fries of East Asia- there's a vegetarian adventure waiting for every palate.
Buckle up, food enthusiasts, as we embark on a journey exploring must-try Asian vegetarian dishes.
Pad Thai. This iconic Thai dish is a symphony of textures and flavours. Thin rice noodles get stir-fried with tofu, vegetables like bean sprouts and scallions, and a tangy-sweet sauce that brings it all together. Peanuts add a delightful crunch, while a squeeze of lime adds a refreshing touch. Pad Thai is a street food staple and a must-try for any vegetarian exploring Thailand.
Bibimbap. This vibrantly coloured Asian dish is a feast for the eyes and the stomach. Here, the bed of fluffy white rice is topped with various colourful and flavourful vegetables like julienned carrots, spinach, bean sprouts, and kimchi (spicy fermented cabbage). A fried tofu adds richness, and a dollop of gochujang (Asian chilli paste) provides a fiery kick. Bibimbap is a well-balanced and visually stunning vegetarian dish.
Japanese Curry. Don't be fooled by the name- Japanese Curry is a unique and delicious experience. Unlike its Indian counterpart, Japanese Curry is a rich and savoury sauce typically made with a roux (a flour and fat mixture) and flavoured with vegetables and spices. It's often served with rice, vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and sometimes even tofu or katsu (a breaded and deep-fried cutlet).
Mapo Tofu. This Sichuan classic is a fiery and flavorful stir-fry featuring silken tofu, ground pork (optional for vegetarians), fermented black beans, and a generous amount of Sichuan peppercorns, creating a unique tingling sensation on the tongue. Further, the dish gets enhanced by the savoury and slightly sweet doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste). Mapo Tofu is a perfect example of bold and daring flavours that characterize Sichuan cuisine.
Bun Cha. The North- Vietnamese street food dish is simple yet incredibly satisfying. Grilled marinated tofu patties are served on vermicelli noodles and fresh herbs like mint and basil. A side of nuoc cham (dipping sauce), lime juice, sugar, and water adds a tangy and refreshing flavour. Bun Cha is a light and flavourful dish perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Laksa. This rich and flavourful noodle soup is a Malaysian staple. There are regional variations, but laksa has thick rice noodles in a creamy coconut curry broth flavoured with lemongrass, galangal, and various spices. Usually, it gets topped with a protein like tofu, vegetables like bean sprouts and fried tofu puffs, and a dollop of sambal (chilli paste) for added heat. Laksa is a comforting and flavourful dish perfect for a chilly day.
Buddha's Delight. This vegetarian dish, named after the Buddhist ideal of non-violence, is a medley of colourful and flavourful vegetables. The ingredients vary but typically include mushrooms, bamboo shoots, snow peas, carrots, and bell peppers, all stir-fried in a savoury sauce. Buddha's Delight is a healthy dish packed with flavour and perfect for those seeking a plant-based meal.
This list barely scratches the surface of the incredible vegetarian offerings across Asia. Each region boasts its unique take on vegetarian cuisine, waiting for us to discover. So, embark on your culinary adventure- explore local markets, try street food stalls, and delve into the diversity of Asian vegetarian delights!
