Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is a time for family, feasting, and vibrant celebrations. Traditionally, the Tet table overflows with abundant dishes, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. While many classic Tet recipes feature meat, a delicious and equally auspicious vegetarian feast is entirely achievable. This article presents five simple yet stunning vegetarian dishes perfect for your Tet offering tray, ensuring a joyful and flavourful celebration for everyone. Each dish is carefully chosen to represent traditional Tet symbolism, while remaining accessible to even novice cooks.
Prepare to impress your family and friends with this vibrant and flavourful spread! We'll guide you through each dish step-by-step, providing clear instructions and helpful tips to ensure your vegetarian Tet offering tray is a resounding success. From the vibrant colours to the irresistible aromas, this meal is sure to bring good luck and deliciousness to your Tet celebrations.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Frying pan
- Pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Taro
- Vegetarian beef
- Bamboo shoots
- Baby corn
- Vegetarian chicken
- Cauliflower (white and regular)
- Lemongrass
- Chili
- Sweet corn
- Vegetables (for spring rolls)
- Bean sprouts
- Rice paper
- Spices (salt, sugar, vegetarian fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, vegetarian seasoning)
- Coriander leaves
- Vegetarian shrimp/pork slices
- Squash
- Coconut water
- Crushed roasted peanuts
- Green onions
- Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Vegetable Bases & Proteins
- Cut taro into strips, soak vegetarian shrimp/pork slices in water until soft, cut cauliflower into bite-sized pieces, boil bamboo shoots.
- Boil squash in coconut water, then add vegetables and boil. Use this water to cook cauliflower soup with white and regular cauliflower, cut into bite-sized pieces, washed and blanched. Add salt, coriander leaves, baby corn, bamboo shoots, and vegetarian lobster (or mushrooms). Season with sugar and vegetarian fish sauce.
Step 2. Fry & Stir-fry Dishes
- Cut taro into small pieces and fry until golden brown and crispy.
- Stir-fry lemongrass and chili, add vegetarian chicken, chili sauce (optional), vegetarian fish sauce, filtered water, sugar, and vegetarian seasoning. Stir-fry until golden brown.
- Soak vegetarian beef in water, squeeze dry, cut into pieces. Stir-fry with coriander and water until soft. Season with sugar, vegetarian seasoning, and soy sauce. Add broccoli (pre-boiled) and vegetarian oyster sauce. Stir well.
Step 3. Assemble & Fry Spring Rolls
- Cut remaining vegetarian beef and crab sticks into small pieces. Stir-fry with seasoning and oil until the beef absorbs the oil. Season with seasoning powder, sugar, and grilled sauce. Add water to help absorb spices. Add crushed roasted peanuts.
- Lightly wet rice paper, add bean sprouts, and filling. Roll and cut into pieces.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy. Use oil that is not too hot and fry over low heat.
Read more: Vietnamese Sponge Wedding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- For the crab sticks in the soup, you can use mushrooms instead.
- The spring roll filling is diverse. You can use taro, sweet potato, or potato.
- Adjust spices to your family's taste.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make these dishes ahead of time?
Yes! Most of these dishes can be prepared a day or two in advance, allowing you more time to focus on other Tet preparations. Store them properly in the refrigerator.
2. Are these dishes suitable for guests with allergies?
While these recipes are vegetarian, always check the ingredient list for any potential allergens. Adapt the recipes as needed to cater to specific dietary requirements.
3. Where can I find the ingredients?
Most ingredients are readily available at Asian grocery stores or larger supermarkets with international food sections. Check online for substitutions if needed.
Creating a stunning and delicious vegetarian Tet offering tray is easier than you think! With these five simple dishes, you can celebrate the Lunar New Year with vibrant flavors and meaningful symbolism, delighting your family and friends. Enjoy your prosperous and flavourful Tet!