Craving the rich, savory flavors of braised ribs but committed to a vegetarian lifestyle? This recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food experience without compromising your values. Forget tough, chewy substitutes; these vegetarian braised ribs boast incredibly tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, achieved through a masterful blend of hearty mushrooms, flavorful spices, and a deeply satisfying braising liquid. Imagine the aromatic steam rising from a pot filled with succulent, glistening "ribs" – a vegan masterpiece that will impress even the most ardent meat-lover.
The key lies in selecting the right mushrooms, ensuring a proper braising technique, and patiently allowing the flavors to meld. We'll use a combination of oyster and king oyster mushrooms for optimal texture and umami depth. This recipe offers a delicious and surprisingly easy way to enjoy a comforting classic, reimagined for a plant-based diet. Ready to transform your culinary horizons? Let's dive into the step-by-step process.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Chopsticks
Ingredients
- Vegetarian ribs: 3 pieces
- Green onion: a little
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Vegetarian seasoning: 1/2 teaspoon
- Roasted sesame: null
- Wet sauce: null
- Vegetarian grilled food: null
- Cooking oil: null
- Rice vermicelli: null
- Cucumbers: a bunch
- Cassava (bean sprouts): null
- Chili sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Vegetarian barbecue marinade: 1 teaspoon
- Filtered water: 1/2 cup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Vegetarian Ribs
- Soak vegetarian ribs in water to soften, then squeeze dry. Cut into four pieces lengthwise.
- Cut cassava into small sticks. Insert cassava sticks into the vegetarian ribs.
- If using, insert green onion sticks into the vegetarian ribs.
Step 2. Braising the Ribs
- Heat oil in a pan and fry the vegetarian ribs over high heat until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Fry green onions briefly in hot oil to make onion oil. Remove onions, reserving the oil.
- In the pan, combine sugar, vegetarian seasoning, chili sauce, vegetarian barbecue marinade, and water. Stir well.
- Simmer the sauce until thickened. Add the fried vegetarian ribs and stir until the sauce is dry.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Turn off the heat.
Step 3. Prepare the Garnish and Vermicelli
- Arrange rice vermicelli, vegetables (cucumbers), and braised vegetarian ribs on a tray. Drizzle with onion oil.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve with sweet and sour sauce (recipe in previous videos).
Read more: Vietnamese Braised Pork Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Braised vegetarian ribs can be made ahead of time and remain soft and delicious.
- If you don't like onions, you can omit them or substitute with cilantro or celery.
- You can use filtered water or fresh coconut water in the sauce.
- Black or white sesame seeds, or roasted peanuts, can be used as a garnish.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-300
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbs: 30-40g
- Protein: 5-8g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Yes! Shiitake, cremini, or a mix would work well. King oyster mushrooms are key for the rib-like texture though.
2. How long can I store the leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They reheat beautifully!
3. What can I substitute for rice vermicelli?
Other noodles like rice noodles or even quinoa would be good alternatives. Consider the texture you prefer.
This Vegetarian Braised Ribs recipe proves that plant-based cooking can be incredibly satisfying and flavorful. Enjoy the rich, umami depth of these delicious "ribs" served alongside the delicate rice vermicelli. Bon appétit!