Chinese - Hermann – Naturally Vegan Recipes

Chinese Wheat Gluten – Kao Fu (The Original Seitan)

The idea to create a protein-packed food that resembles meat might seem like a modern concept, but Chinese Wheat Gluten was first invented more than 1,000 years ago. What started as a traditional ingredient of Chinese Buddhist cuisine has since taken the world by storm, though most know it under the name seitan. Making it is simple – it only requires two ingredients: flour and water. But the real joy of whipping up a batch is to be able to use it in traditional Chinese dishes like Braised Kao Fu.

Xingren Doufu (Chinese Almond Tofu)

Xingren Doufu is a traditional Chinese almond tofu dessert that’s both light and satisfying. This delicate treat blends the texture of silky tofu with the subtle sweetness of almond, creating a soothing and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With it’s unique texture and presentation, Xingren Doufu offers a delightful twist on classic sweets.

Braised Wheat Gluten (Kao Fu 烤麩)

Kao Fu, also known as Chinese braised wheat gluten, is a traditional Shanghainese dish that combines chewy wheat gluten with a flavorful mix of mushrooms, peanuts and wood ear fungus, all simmered in a savory, aromatic sauce. This classic dish is a staple in Chinese cuisine, celebrated for its unique texture and rich, umami flavors. Perfect as a main dish or a side, Kao Fu is often enjoyed during family gatherings and festive occasions.

Jian Dui (Chinese Sesame Seed Balls)

Jian Dui, Chinese Sesame Seed Balls, are a popular snack during Lunar New Year. They are crispy on the outside, light and slightly chewy on the inside and commonly filled with a sweet red bean paste. Once the dough is cooked in the oil, they begin to inflate and double in size, which symbolises good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.

Suan La Fen 酸辣粉 (Chinese Hot and Sour Noodle Soup)

Suan La Fen (酸辣粉) is an experience for the palette and senses. The slippery noodles together with the spicy and tangy broth turn each mouthful into a fragrant and fun sensation.

Chinese Mung Bean Jelly Noodles (Liang Fen 凉粉)

On a hot summer’s day, a bowl of cold Mung Bean Jelly Noodles (Liang Fen 凉粉) feels like a much-needed remedy to the heat. Many dishes are a product of their surroundings and these noodles, popular in the Northern parts of Sichuan, are a favourite to combat the humid hot climate. In essence, the noodles consist of 90% water. They are served fridge-cold in a simple, tangy broth with a gentle spiciness from the chilli oil and the characteristic tongue-numbing sensation of Sichuan pepper.

Black Fungus (Chinese Cloud Ear Mushroom Salad)

Black fungus, also called cloud ear mushrooms, make an exceptional addition to a stir-fry and fragrant soup or can be served on their own as a starter. Their shape turn them into the perfect vessel to hold on to the lip-smacking spicy, garlicky and tangy dressing with black vinegar, soy sauce and plenty of coriander.

Biang Biang Noodles (Chinese Hand-Pulled Chili & Garlic Noodles)

These noodles will single-handedly transform the way you look at homemade food. In their simplicity lies an enormous power to let a few aromatic ingredients shine and bring colour to a dish. It is said that they get their name, Biang Biang Noodles, from the sound it makes when the chef slaps the dough onto the worktop while stretching them out.