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2024 NardDogAThon | Top 10 2024 Vegan and Vegetarian Recipes

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Andrew Bernard | The Nard Dog Cooks
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11 recipes
veganplant-baseddairy-freeegg-freegluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Vegan Orange Chicken is a plant-based twist on the beloved Chinese-American dish, traditionally made with battered and fried chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. This version retains the vibrant flavors while catering to vegan diets, making it a popular choice among those seeking healthier alternatives. The dish has gained traction in the vegan community and is often served with rice or noodles, showcasing the adaptability of classic recipes to modern dietary preferences.

Ingredients

  • โ—tofu
  • โ—orange juice
  • โ—soy sauce
  • โ—cornstarch
  • โ—ginger
  • โ—garlic
  • โ—brown sugar
  • โ—rice vinegar
  • โ—red pepper flakes
  • โ—green onions
  • โ—sesame oil
  • โ—vegetable oil
  • โ—bell pepper
  • โ—broccoli
  • โ—carrots

Instructions

  1. 1Press tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
  2. 2Marinate tofu in soy sauce, orange juice, ginger, and garlic for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3Coat marinated tofu in cornstarch evenly.
  4. 4Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  5. 5Add tofu to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  6. 6Remove tofu from the skillet and set aside.
  7. 7In the same skillet, add bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots; stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
  8. 8In a bowl, mix orange juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
  9. 9Pour the orange sauce over the vegetables in the skillet and bring to a simmer.
  10. 10Add the tofu back to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
  11. 11Drizzle sesame oil over the dish and toss gently.
  12. 12Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

tofu

Healthier: tempeh

Cheaper: seitan

Tempeh offers a nutty flavor and is lower in calories.

brown sugar

Healthier: coconut sugar

Cheaper: white sugar

Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index.

soy sauce

Healthier: tamari

Cheaper: liquid aminos

Tamari is gluten-free and has a richer flavor.

sesame oil

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is more affordable and neutral in flavor.

Techniques

pressingmarinatingstir-frying

Equipment

large skilletmixing bowlcutting boardknife
๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธMediumsoy

Also Known As

Plant-Based Orange ChickenVegan Chinese Orange Chicken
veganplant-baseddairy-freeegg-freegluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Ingredients

  • โ—1 block (14 oz) firm tofu
  • โ—1/2 cup cornstarch
  • โ—1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • โ—1/2 cup orange juice
  • โ—1/4 cup soy sauce
  • โ—1/4 cup maple syrup
  • โ—2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • โ—1 tbsp grated ginger
  • โ—2 cloves garlic, minced
  • โ—1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • โ—1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • โ—Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. 1Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes.
  2. 2In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until evenly coated.
  3. 3Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  4. 4In the same skillet, combine orange juice, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
  5. 5Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
  6. 6Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and toss to coat in the orange sauce.
  7. 7Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow the tofu to absorb the flavors.
  8. 8Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
  9. 9Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Equipment

SkilletBowlSpatulaMeasuring cupsMeasuring spoons
๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธLow

General Tso's Tofu is a vegetarian adaptation of the popular General Tso's Chicken, which is believed to have originated in the Hunan province of China. The dish is named after General Tso Tsung-t'ang, a Qing dynasty military leader. In American Chinese cuisine, it has become a staple, known for its sweet and spicy sauce. The tofu version allows vegetarians and vegans to enjoy the flavors of this beloved dish while maintaining its signature taste and texture.

Ingredients

  • โ—tofu
  • โ—cornstarch
  • โ—vegetable oil
  • โ—ginger
  • โ—garlic
  • โ—green onions
  • โ—red bell pepper
  • โ—soy sauce
  • โ—rice vinegar
  • โ—sugar
  • โ—sesame oil
  • โ—chili paste
  • โ—water
  • โ—sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. 1Press tofu to remove excess moisture and cut into cubes.
  2. 2Coat tofu cubes in cornstarch evenly.
  3. 3Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. 4Add tofu cubes and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. 5Remove tofu and set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  6. 6In the same skillet, add ginger and garlic and sautรฉ until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  7. 7Add red bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
  8. 8In a bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, chili paste, and water to create the sauce.
  9. 9Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
  10. 10Return the fried tofu to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
  11. 11Add sesame oil and mix well.
  12. 12Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
  13. 13Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Ingredient Alternatives

tofu

Healthier: tempeh

Cheaper: seitan

Tempeh is a healthier protein alternative, while seitan is often cheaper.

soy sauce

Healthier: tamari

Cheaper: coconut aminos

Tamari is gluten-free, while coconut aminos is lower in sodium.

Techniques

fryingsautรฉingmixing

Equipment

large skilletmixing bowlspatulapaper towels
๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธHotsoysesame

Also Known As

General Tso's Chicken (tofu version)Vegetarian General Tso's
veganplant-baseddairy-freeegg-freegluten-free

Ingredients

  • โ—1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • โ—1/2 cup buffalo sauce
  • โ—1 tbsp olive oil
  • โ—1 tsp garlic powder
  • โ—1 tsp onion powder
  • โ—1/2 tsp salt
  • โ—1/4 tsp black pepper
  • โ—4 large whole wheat tortillas
  • โ—1 cup lettuce, shredded
  • โ—1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • โ—1/4 cup vegan ranch dressing

Instructions

  1. 1In a medium bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork until slightly chunky.
  2. 2Add the buffalo sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the mashed chickpeas. Mix well until combined.
  3. 3Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the chickpea mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
  4. 4Lay out the tortillas on a clean surface. Divide the chickpea mixture evenly among the tortillas.
  5. 5Top each tortilla with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of vegan ranch dressing.
  6. 6Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
  7. 7Slice the wraps in half diagonally and serve immediately, or wrap in foil for a portable meal.
  8. 8Enjoy your Vegan Buffalo Chickpea Wraps!

Equipment

medium bowlforkskilletclean surface for wrapping
๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธMedium

Ingredients

  • โ—1 block (14 oz) firm tofu
  • โ—1 cup buttermilk (or plant-based alternative)
  • โ—1 cup all-purpose flour
  • โ—1/2 cup cornstarch
  • โ—2 tbsp paprika
  • โ—1 tbsp cayenne pepper
  • โ—1 tsp garlic powder
  • โ—1 tsp onion powder
  • โ—1/2 tsp salt
  • โ—1/2 tsp black pepper
  • โ—Vegetable oil for frying
  • โ—Pickles for serving
  • โ—Buns for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1Press the tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. 2In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and tofu, ensuring the tofu is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
  3. 3In another bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  4. 4Remove the tofu from the buttermilk and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
  5. 5Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat until hot.
  6. 6Fry the coated tofu pieces in batches for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  7. 7Remove the fried tofu and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  8. 8For serving, place the fried tofu on buns (if using) and top with pickles.
  9. 9Serve hot and enjoy your Nashville Hot Tofu!

Equipment

Deep frying panMixing bowlsPaper towelsTongs
๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธMedium

Ingredients

  • โ—tofu
  • โ—soy sauce
  • โ—garlic
  • โ—ginger
  • โ—green onions
  • โ—sesame oil
  • โ—cornstarch
  • โ—vegetable oil
  • โ—red pepper flakes
  • โ—brown sugar
  • โ—lime juice
  • โ—cilantro
  • โ—peanuts

Instructions

  1. 1Press tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into cubes.
  2. 2Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  3. 3Add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
  4. 4In a bowl, mix soy sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, and lime juice.
  5. 5Add the sauce mixture to the skillet with tofu and stir to coat evenly.
  6. 6Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu and toss to combine, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  7. 7Add red pepper flakes for heat and stir well.
  8. 8Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro.
  9. 9Serve hot, topped with crushed peanuts.

Ingredient Alternatives

tofu

Healthier: tempeh

Cheaper: seitan

Tempeh offers a higher protein content while seitan provides a similar texture.

soy sauce

Healthier: tamari

Cheaper: coconut aminos

Tamari is gluten-free, while coconut aminos are lower in sodium.

peanuts

Healthier: sunflower seeds

Cheaper: cashews

Sunflower seeds are nut-free, while cashews provide a creamy texture.

Techniques

sautรฉingmixing

Equipment

skilletcutting boardknifemixing bowl
๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธMedium

Also Known As

Tofu with Love SauceRomantic Tofu

Ingredients

  • โ—1 cup cooked lentils
  • โ—1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • โ—1/4 cup grated carrot
  • โ—1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • โ—2 cloves garlic, minced
  • โ—1/2 tsp salt
  • โ—1/2 tsp black pepper
  • โ—1 tsp dried thyme
  • โ—1 tsp dried oregano
  • โ—1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • โ—1/4 cup vegetable broth
  • โ—2 tbsp soy sauce
  • โ—1 tbsp olive oil
  • โ—1 cup vegetable broth (for gravy)
  • โ—2 tbsp cornstarch
  • โ—1 tbsp soy sauce (for gravy)
  • โ—1/2 cup coconut milk

Instructions

  1. 1In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, grated carrot, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, nutritional yeast, vegetable broth, and soy sauce.
  2. 2Mix the ingredients until well combined. If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs until it holds together.
  3. 3Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
  4. 4Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  5. 5In the same skillet, add 1 cup of vegetable broth, soy sauce, and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
  6. 6In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Add this to the skillet and stir until the gravy thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. 7Return the meatballs to the skillet and coat them in the gravy. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
  8. 8Serve the vegan meatballs with gravy over mashed potatoes or noodles, if desired.

Equipment

large bowlskilletspatulasmall bowl

Ingredients

  • โ—2 cups rolled oats
  • โ—1/2 cup almond milk
  • โ—1/2 cup maple syrup
  • โ—1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • โ—1 tsp baking powder
  • โ—1/2 tsp salt
  • โ—1 tsp cinnamon
  • โ—1/2 cup mixed berries (for one variation)
  • โ—1/2 cup chopped nuts (for another variation)
  • โ—1/4 cup almond butter (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
  2. 2In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
  3. 3In another bowl, mix together the almond milk, maple syrup, and applesauce until well combined.
  4. 4Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until fully incorporated.
  5. 5Divide the mixture into two separate baking dishes or keep it in one and create two variations.
  6. 6For the first variation, fold in the mixed berries gently into one half of the mixture.
  7. 7For the second variation, fold in the chopped nuts into the other half of the mixture.
  8. 8Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dishes.
  9. 9Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the oatmeal is set.
  10. 10Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with almond butter if desired.

Equipment

mixing bowlsbaking dishmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoonsspatula
vegangluten-free

Ingredients

  • โ—2 cups lentils (cooked)
  • โ—1 medium onion (chopped)
  • โ—2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • โ—1 carrot (diced)
  • โ—1 celery stalk (diced)
  • โ—1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • โ—1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • โ—1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • โ—1 teaspoon dried basil
  • โ—1/2 teaspoon salt
  • โ—1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • โ—2 tablespoons olive oil
  • โ—1/4 cup vegetable broth
  • โ—1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • โ—1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. 2Add chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sautรฉ until vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3Stir in the cooked lentils, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste.
  4. 4Add dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  5. 5Pour in the vegetable broth and balsamic vinegar, stirring to combine.
  6. 6Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
  7. 7Cover and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. 8Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  9. 9Serve over your choice of pasta or as a filling for lasagna.
  10. 10Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Equipment

large skilletwooden spoonmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoons

Ingredients

  • โ—1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • โ—1 cup cashews, raw
  • โ—2 cups broccoli florets
  • โ—1 medium onion, diced
  • โ—2 cloves garlic, minced
  • โ—1 tablespoon olive oil
  • โ—1 teaspoon cumin
  • โ—1 teaspoon paprika
  • โ—1/2 teaspoon salt
  • โ—1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • โ—1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • โ—1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • โ—1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • โ—Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. 1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. 2Add diced onion and sautรฉ until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. 3Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. 4Add chickpeas, cashews, broccoli florets, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
  5. 5Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
  6. 6Cover the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
  7. 7Remove the lid and stir in lemon juice.
  8. 8Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  9. 9Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Equipment

large skilletmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoonsspatula
๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธLow

Caramelized Onion Pasta is a delightful dish that highlights the sweet, rich flavors of slowly cooked onions, a staple in Italian cuisine. Traditionally, caramelizing onions is a labor of love, requiring patience to develop their natural sugars. This dish celebrates simplicity and comfort, making it a favorite for family dinners. Today, variations abound, with some adding proteins like chicken or shrimp, while others focus on vegetarian ingredients, making it a versatile meal enjoyed worldwide.

Ingredients

  • โ—pasta
  • โ—onions
  • โ—olive oil
  • โ—butter
  • โ—garlic
  • โ—vegetable broth
  • โ—parmesan cheese
  • โ—black pepper
  • โ—salt
  • โ—fresh herbs
  • โ—red pepper flakes
  • โ—lemon juice
  • โ—balsamic vinegar
  • โ—spinach
  • โ—walnuts

Instructions

  1. 1Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and reserve some pasta water.
  2. 2Slice onions thinly and heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. 3Add onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
  4. 4Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  5. 5Pour in vegetable broth and scrape up any browned bits from the skillet.
  6. 6Stir in black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes to taste.
  7. 7Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the onion mixture.
  8. 8If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  9. 9Stir in fresh herbs and lemon juice for brightness.
  10. 10Finish with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and toss again.
  11. 11Serve warm, topped with grated parmesan cheese and additional herbs if desired.

Ingredient Alternatives

parmesan cheese

Healthier: nutritional yeast

Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor while being lower in calories.

butter

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier and can be used for sautรฉing.

walnuts

Healthier: pumpkin seeds

Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Pumpkin seeds provide a similar crunch and are often less expensive.

balsamic vinegar

Healthier: apple cider vinegar

Cheaper: red wine vinegar

Apple cider vinegar offers a tangy flavor with fewer calories.

Techniques

sautรฉingboiling

Equipment

large potskilletcolanderwooden spoon
๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธLowmilktree-nutsgluten

Also Known As

Onion PastaPasta with Caramelized Onions

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