Vegetarian Eight Treasures

Vegetarian Eight Treasures Recipe - Delicious and Healthy Dish from USA

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Vegetarian Eight Treasures is a traditional Chinese dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. This dish is made up of a variety of ingredients, each representing a different treasure. It is a popular dish during Chinese New Year celebrations and other special occasions.

History

The Eight Treasures dish has a long history in Chinese cuisine and is believed to have originated in the Qing Dynasty. The number eight is considered lucky in Chinese culture, and the dish is said to bring good luck and prosperity to those who eat it. Each ingredient in the dish symbolizes a different treasure, such as wealth, health, and happiness.

Ingredients

3 pieces of spicy pressed bean curd
4 dried mushrooms
50 g (3.5 tbsp) of carrot
75 g (5.25 tbsp) of wheat gluten
50 g (3.5 tbsp) of water chestnuts (fresh if possible)
75 g (5.25 tbsp) of string beans
1 red chile
0.25 cup of peanuts, or as desired
1 garlic clove
1 shallot
1.5 tbsp of hot bean paste
1 tsp of rice wine

Seasoning

0.25 tsp of salt (or to taste)
0.5 tsp of sugar
0.5 tsp of hoisin sauce
0.5 tsp of dark soy sauce
0.5 tsp of sesame oil
pepper - a few shakes
50 ml (just under 0.25 cup) of water
oil for deep-frying and stir-frying, as needed

How to prepare

Soak the dried mushrooms until they have softened.
If desired, save the soaking liquid to use in place of water in the seasoning.
Wash and dice the string beans, gluten ball, and spicy pressed bean curd.
Wash and dice the carrot, water chestnuts, and red chile.
Peel the garlic and shallot and chop them finely.
Mix together the seasoning ingredients in a bowl.
Boil the peanuts in boiling water for about 2 minutes.
Allow them to cool, then peel the skin and set aside.
Heat the wok and add oil for deep-frying.
When the oil is ready, deep-fry the peanuts on high heat until they are golden brown.
Remove the peanuts and set them aside.
Repeat the deep-frying process with the gluten ball.
Parboil the carrots and string beans for 1 minute, then drain them.
Heat the wok and add oil.
When the oil is ready, add the garlic, shallot, and hot bean paste.
Add all the other ingredients except for the peanuts.
Stir-fry until they are cooked, then add the rice wine and seasoning.
Turn off the heat, mix in the peanuts, and serve.

Variations

Add tofu or tempeh for extra protein.
Use different vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snow peas for variety.
Substitute cashews or almonds for peanuts for a different flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soak the dried mushrooms until they have softened before using them in the dish.

- Save the soaking liquid from the mushrooms to use in the seasoning for added flavor.

- Deep-fry the peanuts and gluten ball separately until they are golden brown for the best texture and flavor.

- Parboil the carrots and string beans before stir-frying to ensure they are cooked through but still crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Vegetarian Eight Treasures with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Deep-frying for a crispy texture.

- Stir-frying for quick cooking and to retain the nutrients in the ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use soy sauce instead of dark soy sauce for a lighter flavor.

- Substitute honey for sugar for a sweeter taste.

- Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This dish can be made in advance and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Vegetarian Eight Treasures on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for an elegant presentation. Serve in individual bowls for a more formal setting.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a light and refreshing cucumber salad or a side of steamed bok choy for a well-rounded meal. Serve with a pot of green tea for a traditional Chinese dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Vegetarian Eight Treasures contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

The Vegetarian Eight Treasures dish is a good source of carbohydrates, with ingredients like carrots, water chestnuts, and string beans providing essential energy for the body.

Fats

The dish contains healthy fats from ingredients like peanuts and sesame oil, which are important for brain function and overall health.

Proteins

The dish is a good source of plant-based proteins from ingredients like gluten, peanuts, and water chestnuts, which are essential for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Vegetarian Eight Treasures is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from red chiles and carrots, and iron from water chestnuts and string beans.

Alergens

This dish contains peanuts and gluten, which may be allergens for some individuals. It is important to check for any food allergies before consuming this dish.

Summary

Overall, Vegetarian Eight Treasures is a nutritious and balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Vegetarian Eight Treasures is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. With a mix of vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body. Enjoy this traditional Chinese dish with family and friends for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a vibrant and colorful dish called Vegetarian Eight Treasures, and it looked like a work of art on a plate. I knew I had to learn how to make it.

I first came across this recipe when I was visiting a dear friend in China. She invited me to her home for a traditional Chinese feast, and this dish was the star of the show. As I watched her prepare it, I was amazed by the skill and precision with which she assembled the various ingredients. Each component was carefully arranged in a circular pattern, with vibrant colors and flavors that complemented each other perfectly.

I asked my friend for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. She explained that Vegetarian Eight Treasures is a traditional Chinese dish that is often served during special occasions and celebrations. It is made up of eight different vegetarian ingredients, each symbolizing good luck and prosperity.

The ingredients include mushrooms, tofu, carrots, bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, bell peppers, snow peas, and baby corn. Each ingredient is stir-fried separately and then combined in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sugar.

I was so excited to try making this dish myself. I spent hours in the kitchen, carefully chopping and slicing each ingredient. I followed my friend's instructions to the letter, taking care to cook each component just right.

As I assembled the dish, I felt a sense of calm and satisfaction wash over me. It was like creating a work of art, with each ingredient playing its own unique role in the final masterpiece. When I took my first bite, I was amazed by the explosion of flavors in my mouth. The dish was a symphony of tastes and textures, with each ingredient shining through in its own way.

I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my family and friends. I hosted a dinner party and served Vegetarian Eight Treasures as the main course. My guests were blown away by the dish, and they couldn't believe that I had made it myself. They all asked for the recipe, and I happily shared it with them.

Over the years, I have continued to make Vegetarian Eight Treasures for special occasions and gatherings. It has become a signature dish of mine, and I take pride in showcasing the rich culinary traditions of China through this recipe.

I have also added my own twist to the dish, experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to create new variations. I have made it spicy with added chili peppers, or sweet with a dash of honey. Each time, the dish turns out delicious and satisfying, a true testament to the versatility of this recipe.

As I reflect on my journey with Vegetarian Eight Treasures, I am grateful for the experiences and memories that this dish has brought into my life. It has taught me the power of tradition and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. I hope to continue making this dish for many years to come, passing on the recipe and the stories behind it to future generations.

In the end, Vegetarian Eight Treasures is more than just a recipe to me. It is a symbol of friendship, culture, and the simple pleasures of cooking. It has enriched my life in so many ways, and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow through this dish.