Delicious Pf Chang’s Mongolian Beef Recipe
Welcome to my vegan/vegetarian take on the beloved PF Chang’s Mongolian Beef recipe! I have created a delicious plant-based version of this classic Chinese-American dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions.
This recipe features extra firm tofu coated in cornstarch and fried until crispy, then tossed with mushrooms, red bell pepper, and green onions in a sweet soy glaze. I have also included instructions for using soy curls as a protein alternative for those who may not be fans of tofu.
Not only is this dish a healthier alternative to its meaty counterpart, but it is also much more environmentally friendly. By choosing plant-based proteins, we can reduce our carbon footprint and help address the climate crisis.
Whether you’re a longtime vegan or someone who is simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So grab your apron and get ready to impress your taste buds with this flavorful and satisfying vegan/vegetarian PF Chang’s Mongolian Beef (Tofu) Recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you craving for some PF Chang’s Mongolian Beef but want to try something vegan or vegetarian? Look no further because this recipe will satisfy your taste buds with its amazing flavors and textures.
First of all, this recipe is perfect for individuals who are trying to transition into a plant-based diet, as it uses extra firm tofu as the main ingredient instead of beef. Tofu is low in calories and high in protein, making it a great alternative to meat. Additionally, the mushrooms used in the recipe offer a meaty texture and an earthy flavor that complements the tofu perfectly.
But let’s not forget about the sauce! The dark brown sugar combined with low-sodium soy sauce, garlic, and fresh ginger creates a mouth-watering blend that adds depth and richness to the dish. This sweet and savory sauce pairs perfectly with the crispy tofu and vegetables.
Moreover, this vegan/vegetarian PF Chang’s Mongolian Beef recipe is incredibly easy to follow. With just a few pantry staples and some fresh produce, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something delicious but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.
Finally, if you’re looking for variations or substitutes, this recipe offers plenty of options to customize according to your preferences. You can swap tofu for soy curls or seitan for a different texture, or even add some red bell pepper or green onions for extra color and flavor. The possibilities are endless!
In conclusion, there are many reasons why you’ll love this vegan/vegetarian PF Chang’s Mongolian Beef (Tofu) Recipe. Not only is it healthy, easy-to-make and customizable, but it also satisfies your cravings for Chinese-American takeout without any animal products. Give it a try and see how delicious plant-based eating can be!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you need for this recipe:
Tofu
- 1 package of extra firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
Cornstarch Coating
- 1/2 cup of cornstarch
Mongolian Sauce
- 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons of garlic, chopped
Stir Fry Ingredients
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced thinly
- 8 oz. package of mushrooms, sliced thin
- 5 green onions, cut into small pieces
This recipe has key ingredients that are vegan and vegetarian friendly carefully mixed to mimic the traditional Mongolian Beef dish served at PF Chang’s restaurant. The tofu is coated in a light cornstarch coating before being fried into crispy chunks. The Mongolian Sauce is made with a delicate balance of low-sodium soy sauce, water, sweet dark brown sugar, sesame oil, minced ginger and chopped garlic that forms the essence of this dish. Add more vegetables like sliced red bell pepper or mushrooms to this curry-like stir-fry combination for a more interesting flavor profile.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking!
Step 1: Press the Tofu
To get the tofu to absorb more flavor, press it between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove any excess moisture. Once pressed, cut the tofu into small cubes or bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Coat the Tofu
In a large ziplock bag, combine 1/2 cup of cornstarch and some salt and pepper. Add the tofu to the bag and shake it until the tofu is evenly coated.
Step 3: Fry the Tofu
Heat some vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a few pieces of tofu at a time and fry until they are crispy and golden brown. Transfer the crispy tofu onto a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of low sodium soy sauce, 1 cup of dark brown sugar, some minced garlic, chopped fresh ginger, and sliced mushrooms. Cook over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce has thickened slightly (around 10 minutes).
Step 5: Combine and Cook
Return the crispy tofu back to the skillet and add sliced red bell pepper and sliced green onions. Add around 1-2 cups of the sauce mixture (depending on how saucy you like it) and let it simmer for around 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Garnish
Once the sauce has thickened further, remove it from heat. Garnish with more sliced green onions before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Vegan/Vegetarian Pf Chang’s Mongolian Beef (Tofu) dish!
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking to add your own unique spin to this vegan Pf Chang’s Mongolian Beef (Tofu) recipe? Here are some substitutions and variations that you can try out:
– Mushrooms: Replace the tofu with sliced mushrooms, such as portobello or shiitake. These hearty vegetables will provide a similar texture to the tofu while adding their own savory flavor to the dish.
– Soy curls or seitan: If you’re not a fan of tofu, try using soy curls or seitan instead. Both of these vegan protein sources have a chewy texture that works well in this dish.
– Red bell pepper: Want to add some extra color and sweetness to the dish? Try replacing the mushrooms or tofu with sliced red bell peppers. The crisp texture and vibrant color will be a great addition.
– Teriyaki sauce: If you prefer a sweeter taste, try swapping out the low-sodium soy sauce in the recipe for teriyaki sauce. This Japanese sauce is made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, giving it a sweet and tangy flavor.
– Crispy Mongolian Tofu Lettuce Cups: Looking for a fun way to serve this dish? Try making lettuce cups! Instead of serving over rice, spoon the saucy Mongolian tofu into large lettuce leaves and enjoy as a refreshing and healthy meal.
Regardless of the substitution you choose, be sure to coat your protein source in cornstarch before frying for that crispy Mongolian beef (tofu) texture we all know and love. Experiment with various variations until you find your perfect combination with this Chinese-American restaurant classic.
Serving and Pairing
Now that your vegan Pf Chang’s Mongolian Beef (Tofu) recipe is ready, it’s time to serve it up for an unforgettable dining experience. This dish pairs extremely well with fluffy steamed rice or noodles, and a variety of sides such as stir-fried vegetables, tofu lettuce cups or even some crispy mushroom dumplings.
The spicy and savory notes of the sweet soy glaze create a unique flavor profile that can be enhanced with a side of chilled cucumber salad or pickled veggies like carrots and daikon. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving this dish as an appetizer by adding some tofu bites coated in starch, fried to a perfect crisp.
Pairing options are endless, depending on your personal preference. You could opt for a refreshing glass of sparkling water or ginger beer to balance out the bold flavors or pair this dish with some green tea for a more authentic taste.
This vegan dish has the potential to impress vegans and non-vegans alike; it’s satisfying, flavorful, and most importantly, it’s good for you. It is an excellent option if you’re looking to impress guests or indulging in Chinese-American cuisine without comprising on ethics.
In conclusion, when serving your Mongolian beef (tofu), think outside the box and experiment with different combinations. Don’t forget to enjoy it fully!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
If you’re looking to meal prep or just make this vegan/vegetarian PF Chang’s Mongolian Beef (Tofu) recipe ahead of time, I’ve got some good news for you! This dish is perfect for making ahead and it stores really well.
To make-ahead: You can easily prepare the tofu and vegetables a day or two in advance. Just make sure you store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use them. The tofu can be cooked and then stored in its own container so that it doesn’t get too soggy. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the tofu and sauce separately in the microwave, stove top or oven until heated through.
To store: Once your vegan/vegetarian PF Chang’s Mongolian Beef (Tofu) is cooked, let it cool down to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid. Place it in the refrigerator and it’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days.
To reheat: When it comes time to reheat the leftovers, there are a few different options. You can heat it up on the stove top, just add a splash of water if necessary to help loosen up any thickened sauce. Alternatively, the tofu and vegetables can be reheated separately in the microwave and then combined with the sauce afterwards.
Just remember not to reheat everything at once as this will result in overcooked veggies and chewy tofu texture. It’s best to reheat everything in smaller batches, then mix them all together when they’re fully heated through.
With these tips, your vegan/vegetarian PF Chang’s Mongolian Beef (Tofu) dish will taste just as delicious reheated!
Tips for Perfect Results
In order to create the perfect vegan Pf Chang’s Mongolian Beef (Tofu) recipe, there are some tips that you should keep in mind. Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure that your dish comes out perfectly every time.
Firstly, it is important to make sure that your tofu is properly pressed before using it in the recipe. This means that you should wrap the block of tofu in paper towels and place a heavy object on top of it for at least 30 minutes. This will help to remove excess moisture from the tofu, allowing it to absorb more flavor from the sauce.
Secondly, take extra care when cooking the tofu so that it crisps up nicely without getting too oily. To do this, heat up your oil on high heat for at least 2-3 minutes before adding in your tofu cubes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan as this will result in steaming rather than frying. You can also opt to bake your tofu cubes in the oven if you prefer a lower-fat option.
Another important factor to consider is the quality and freshness of your herbs and spices. Be sure to use fresh garlic and ginger instead of dried or powdered versions for a much more robust and flavorful sauce. Similarly, using fresh green onions and mushrooms will give your dish a greater depth of flavor compared to canned or pre-packaged alternatives.
Lastly, add your sauce gradually and adjust according to your personal taste preferences. It’s always better to start with a smaller amount of sauce and work your way up rather than pouring too much all at once and overpowering the rest of the ingredients.
By taking these tips into account, you can achieve perfectly crispy Tofu with a richly flavored sauce just like PF Chang’s Mongolian Beef.
FAQ
Before you begin cooking this vegan/vegetarian PF Chang’s Mongolian Beef (Tofu) recipe, let us address some common questions that may arise. Here are answers to frequently asked questions that will help you fully understand the recipe and make this dish effortlessly. Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines, and you can always adjust the recipe to your preferences.
What is vegan Mongolian beef made of?
Get ready to take your taste buds on a journey with this Vegan Mongolian “Beef” recipe that will leave you craving for more. This delectable dish swaps out traditional beef for soy chunks that are perfectly coated in starch and then fried to a satisfying crisp. It is then expertly stir-fried with a flavorful combination of garlic, ginger, and scallions for a delicious aroma. To top it all off, the soy chunks are coated in a sweet soy glaze that perfectly complements the crispy texture of this vegan delight.
Is PF Chang’s Ma Po tofu vegetarian?
Great news for vegans looking for a tasty and satisfying meal option at PF Chang’s! The Mapo Tofu is a vegan-friendly option that you can enjoy without any worries. You can pair it with either white or brown steamed rice and even have some extra steamed vegetables on the side for a more well-rounded meal.
Is PF Chang’s teriyaki sauce vegan?
When it comes to teriyaki sauce, most variations are suitable for vegans as soy sauce, the main ingredient, is naturally vegan. However, some recipes may contain honey. It’s worth noting that P.F. Chang’s teriyaki sauce is a vegan-friendly option that I personally recommend due to its delicious taste.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this vegan/vegetarian PF Chang’s Mongolian Beef (Tofu) recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make with ingredients easily accessible in any grocery store. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a tasty and healthy substitute for meat. With a perfect balance of flavors, this recipe will surely satisfy your Chinese-American food craving. Impress your friends and family by serving them with Crispy Mongolian Tofu or by making flavorful Vegan Seitan Recipe with the same sauce! With this recipe, you can customize it to fit your personal taste preferences and dietary restrictions by simply swapping out a few ingredients. Don’t let the name “Mongolian Beef” fool you; this vegan version is an equally satisfying dish packed full of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your apron and get ready to whip up some delicious vegan/vegetarian PF Chang’s Mongolian Beef (Tofu) using this simple yet mouthwatering recipe. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll never go back to the original beef-based dish again!
Vegan/Vegetarian Pf Chang’s Mongolian Beef (Tofu) Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons garlic, chopped
- 1 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 1/4 cups dark brown sugar
- 2 (14 ounce) containers extra firm tofu
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 4 large green onions, cut into 1-2-inch slices
- 1 large red bell pepper, cut in to long slices lengthwise (optional)
- 10 ounces mushrooms, quartered (optional)
Instructions
- Remove tofu from water and thoroughly pat with paper towels to dry.
- Slice tofu in half lengthwise, then quarter it by cutting it in half along the narrow sides. You will have four rectangles. Keep them together, then begin slicing 1/4" slices from the narrow end. You should end up with lots of pieces that measure just over 1" long and about 3/4" wide.
- Put these pieces on a plate, sandwiched between paper towels, and press them dry. This should get most of the water out.
- Heat sesame oil in a deep skillet over low/medium heat.
- Add ginger and garlic to the pan and lightly sautee for about 30 seconds. Do not scorch the garlic.
- Add soy sauce and water.
- Dissolve the brown sugar in the liquid, then raise the heat to medium high and boil sauce for about three minutes. It will thicken slightly.
- Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Put tofu strips inside of sauce and marinate them for 30-60 minutes. You can start your rice during this step, if you plan to use brown rice.
- Use a colander to gently strain the liquid from the tofu. Keep the liquid in a bowl for the next step.
- Add cornstarch to liquid and dissolve.
- Gently place the tofu back into the skillet (or in a wok, if you'd like) and brown it on medium. Don't turn it too often, or it will break. You can add a small amount of sesame oil to help it along.
- Add green onions, peppers and mushrooms to the skillet or wok.
- Pour sauce into the veggie mixture and heat, just until it's nice and hot.
- Serve over brown rice or pad thai noodles.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Jolo is a talented chef and food blogger with a passion for vegan and Caribbean flavors. From savory vegetarian dishes to tropical smoothies, Jolo’s Kitchen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for meat-free meals or creative Caribbean recipes, Jolo’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.