20 Vegan Chinese Snack Recipes: Street Food Classics

When it comes to street food, nothing beats the vibrant and varied tastes of Chinese snacks. Whether you’re wandering through a bustling market in Beijing or enjoying a casual evening at home, the aromas and flavors of these delicious bites have a way of captivating your senses. I’ve been craving these mouthwatering dishes lately and wanted to share a collection of recipes that bring the authenticity of Chinese street food right to your kitchen.

If you’re a lover of vegan food or simply enjoy trying new flavors, this post is made for you. You’ll find 20 delectable vegan Chinese snack recipes that are not only easy to prepare but also packed with bold flavors. From crispy vegetable spring rolls to savory dumplings, these recipes cater to anyone looking for delicious yet plant-based options that satisfy those snack cravings.

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure! In this blog post, you’ll discover recipes that are approachable, fun to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, planning a cozy night in, or just want to treat yourself, these homemade Chinese treats will have you covered. Let’s dive into the delicious world of vegan Chinese snacks!

Key Takeaways

– Explore Authentic Flavors: Discover the essence of Chinese street food through easy-to-make vegan recipes that retain traditional flavors.

– Perfect for Everyone: These snacks cater to vegans and non-vegans alike, making them great for gatherings or personal indulgence.

– Variety of Options: With 20 unique recipes, you have a wide range of choices, from crispy rolls to savory dumplings, ensuring there’s something for every palate.

– Simple Cooking Techniques: Each recipe is designed to be approachable, utilizing straightforward ingredients and techniques that are beginner-friendly.

– Bring Home the Street Food Experience: Enjoy the delightful experience of homemade snacks that capture the spirit of authentic Chinese street food right in your kitchen.

1. Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls

Craving a crunchy snack that’s bursting with flavor? Crispy vegetable spring rolls are just the answer, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Filled with a colorful assortment of fresh vegetables and wrapped in delicate pastry, they’re perfect for dipping in soy sauce or sweet chili sauce. These bite-sized delights are not only tasty but also easy to whip up for any occasion.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 12 spring roll wrappers
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Take a spring roll wrapper and place about two tablespoons of the filling at the edge.
3. Roll tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Seal with a little water.
4. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the rolls until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

FAQs:
– Can these be made in advance? Yes, prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to fry.

2. Spicy Tofu Skewers

Looking for a fun way to enjoy tofu? These spicy tofu skewers are your ticket to a flavor-packed meal! Marinated in a zesty blend of soy sauce, chili paste, and garlic, the tofu is grilled to smoky perfection, making it a delicious choice for any gathering. Perfect as an appetizer or served with rice, they’re sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili paste
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, chili paste, and garlic powder. Marinate tofu cubes in this mixture for at least 15 minutes.
2. Thread marinated tofu onto skewers, alternating with colorful vegetable pieces like bell peppers and zucchini.
3. Grill skewers over medium heat for about 10 minutes until tofu is golden, turning occasionally.
4. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving for added flavor.

FAQs:
– Can I use other proteins instead of tofu? Yes, tempeh or seitan can also be used for these skewers.

3. Vegan Dumplings with Chive Filling

Dumplings are a delightful treat, and these vegan dumplings filled with chives are no exception! With a simple dough and a savory tofu-chive filling, they can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried to your liking. Each bite offers a wonderful combination of textures and flavors, making them perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup boiling water
– 1 cup chopped chives
– 1 cup crumbled firm tofu
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine flour and boiling water. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.
2. In another bowl, mix chives, tofu, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out the dough and cut circles using a round cutter. Place filling in the center of each circle, fold over, and seal.
4. Steam or boil dumplings for about 5-7 minutes, or pan-fry for a crispy texture.

FAQs:
– Can I add other vegetables to the filling? Yes, mushrooms or carrots can be excellent additions!

4. Scallion Pancakes

Craving something flaky and savory? Scallion pancakes are a must-try! These delicious pancakes are layered with green onions and lightly salted, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Their crispy outer layer and chewy inside make them a delightful snack or appetizer, especially when served with a soy sauce dip.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup boiling water
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions
– Salt to taste
– Oil for frying

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix flour and boiling water to form a dough. Knead until smooth and let rest for 10 minutes.
2. Roll out the dough into a thin circle and sprinkle with scallions and salt.
3. Roll the dough into a cylinder, coil it, and gently flatten it.
4. Heat oil in a skillet and pan-fry the pancake for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

FAQs:
– Can I make these in advance? Yes, scallion pancakes can be made ahead and reheated in a pan.

5. Sweet Potato Balls

Sweet potato balls are a delightful snack that’s both sweet and satisfying. These tender balls are coated in a crispy exterior, offering a wonderful texture alongside their natural sweetness. Packed with nutrients and gluten-free, they are a fantastic alternative to traditional fried snacks. Pair them with a coconut or peanut sauce for an extra treat!

Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup rice flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– Oil for frying

Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potato, rice flour, and sugar.
2. Form the mixture into small balls.
3. Heat oil in a pan and fry the balls until they are golden and crispy.
4. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

FAQs:
– Do these freeze well? Yes, you can freeze uncooked sweet potato balls and fry them directly from frozen.

6. Spicy Cucumber Salad

Looking for a refreshing side dish? This spicy cucumber salad perfectly balances crunch and zest. With crisp cucumbers tossed in a zesty dressing of chili oil, garlic, and rice vinegar, it’s a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal. Ideal for summer potlucks or as a quick appetizer, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups cucumbers, sliced
– 1 tablespoon chili oil
– 1 teaspoon minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt to taste

Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices.
2. Drizzle with chili oil, garlic, rice vinegar, and salt.
3. Toss well to coat the cucumbers in the dressing.
4. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

FAQs:
– Can this be made ahead? Yes, it can be prepared a few hours in advance for better flavor infusion.

7. Vegan Bao Buns

Soft, fluffy, and filled with a savory mixture, vegan bao buns are a treat you won’t want to miss! These pillowy buns, typically filled with mushrooms and cabbage, are often steamed to light perfection, making them a delightful snack or party dish. Enjoy them warm with a dash of soy sauce for extra flavor!

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 cup chopped mushrooms
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix flour, yeast, and warm water to form a dough. Knead until smooth and let it rise for 1 hour.
2. For the filling, sauté mushrooms and cabbage with soy sauce until soft.
3. Roll out dough, cut into circles, fill with the mixture, and pinch to seal.
4. Steam the buns for about 15 minutes until fluffy and cooked through.

FAQs:
– Can these be frozen? Yes, bao buns can be frozen before steaming and cooked from frozen.

8. Grilled Corn with Spicy Sauce

Grilled corn on the cob is a beloved street food, and this vegan version topped with a spicy sauce is sure to satisfy! The sweet corn pairs beautifully with a zesty chili-lime dressing, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a tasty snack any time, it brings the street food vibe right to your backyard.

Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked
– 2 tablespoons chili oil
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
3. In a small bowl, mix chili oil, lime juice, and salt.
4. Brush the spicy sauce over the corn before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen corn? Yes, just ensure it’s thawed and grill it in the same way.

Pro tip: Grilled corn shines when you brush it with chili oil and lime juice right off the grill—it’s a quick, vegan twist on chinese snacks recipe. Fire up the barbecue and savor the bold, zesty bite in minutes.

9. Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry

In the mood for a quick and healthy meal? This tofu and vegetable stir-fry is a fantastic option! Packed with colorful vegetables and protein-rich tofu, it’s not only delicious but also a great way to boost your nutrition. Tossed in a savory sauce, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, served over rice or noodles for a fulfilling meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, cubed
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat and add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
2. Add cubed tofu and cook until golden.
3. Toss in mixed vegetables and soy sauce, cooking until vegetables are tender but crisp.
4. Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

FAQs:
– Can I add more protein? Yes, chickpeas or edamame make great additions!

10. Mung Bean Jelly

Looking for a refreshing dessert? Mung bean jelly is a unique treat that contrasts beautifully with savory snacks. Made from mung bean starch, it creates a jelly-like texture that’s often paired with sweet syrups or fresh fruit. Light and refreshing, it’s perfect for cleansing your palate after a flavorful meal or enjoying on a warm day.

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mung bean starch
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– Fresh fruit (mango or strawberries)

Instructions:
1. Mix mung bean starch and water in a pot, stirring until combined.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens.
3. Pour the mixture into a mold and let it cool until set.
4. Cut into squares and serve with fresh fruit and syrup.

FAQs:
– Can I make this in advance? Yes, mung bean jelly can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.

11. Vegan Fried Rice

Need a quick and satisfying meal? Vegan fried rice is a fantastic go-to option! Using day-old rice ensures the perfect texture, and tossing in peas, carrots, and green onions creates a colorful and flavorful dish. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a great way to use up leftovers, making it practical and tasty.

Ingredients:
– 4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions:
1. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mixed vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
2. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up clumps. Stir in soy sauce.
3. Toss in green onions and cook for another few minutes until heated through.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!

FAQs:
– Can I use brown rice? Yes, brown rice works just as well!

12. Vegan Hot and Sour Soup

Craving something warm and comforting? Vegan hot and sour soup beautifully balances spicy and tangy flavors. Featuring tofu and mushrooms for richness, this fragrant broth spiced with white pepper and vinegar is perfect as an appetizer or a light meal. It’s a dish that will warm your heart and soul, especially on chilly nights!

Ingredients:
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 block of tofu, cubed
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon white pepper

Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add mushrooms and tofu.
2. Stir in soy sauce, vinegar, and white pepper.
3. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.

FAQs:
– Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! Bok choy or carrots make great additions.

13. Vegetable Spring Onion Soup

Want a light and nutritious dish? This vegetable spring onion soup combines the freshness of spring onions with hearty vegetables, creating a fulfilling meal. Quick and easy to prepare, this soup is packed with nutrients and vibrant flavors, making it perfect for chilly days. It’s a delightful appetizer or a light lunch option!

Ingredients:
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 1 cup chopped celery
– 1 cup chopped spring onions
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring vegetable broth to a boil.
2. Add diced carrots, celery, and spring onions.
3. Stir in soy sauce and simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Serve hot with fresh herbs on top.

FAQs:
– Can I add noodles? Yes, cooked rice noodles can be a great addition to make the soup heartier.

14. Vegan Jiaozi (Chinese Dumplings)

Jiaozi are traditional Chinese dumplings that are perfect for celebrations! These vegan versions are filled with a delightful mixture of cabbage, carrots, and spices, then steamed or pan-fried for that perfect bite. Fun to make and share, they make a great dish for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup warm water
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup grated carrots
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix flour and water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes.
2. In another bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out the dough and cut circles. Fill each with a spoonful of vegetable mixture and seal.
4. Steam or pan-fry until cooked through.

FAQs:
– Can I make these ahead? Yes, they freeze well and can be cooked from frozen.

15. Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce

Craving something savory? Chinese eggplant with garlic sauce is a delicious dish that combines flavors and textures beautifully. The tender eggplant is cooked until soft and coated in a rich garlic sauce, creating a delightful meal. Serve it over rice or enjoy it on its own for a vibrant vegan snack that impresses!

Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, cut into pieces
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
2. Add eggplant pieces, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in soy sauce and rice vinegar. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve hot over rice or on its own for a flavorful dish.

FAQs:
– Can I use other vegetables? Yes, zucchini or bell peppers can work well too.

16. Vegan Szechuan Noodles

Looking for a spicy and flavorful dish? Vegan Szechuan noodles are just the ticket! Made with fresh vegetables and tossed in a spicy peanut sauce, these noodles create a satisfying meal that packs a punch. Ideal for dinner or lunch, they bring a taste of Szechuan cuisine right to your kitchen.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz. noodles (soba or rice)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 3 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon szechuan peppercorns
– Water as needed

Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix peanut butter, soy sauce, and Szechuan peppercorns. Add water to thin it out.
3. In a pan, stir-fry mixed vegetables until tender.
4. Toss in noodles and sauce, mixing well. Serve hot for a delicious meal.

FAQs:
– Can I use other nut butters? Yes, almond or cashew butter can also be used.

17. Sesame Noodles

In the mood for a quick and tasty dish? Sesame noodles are a classic choice, blending the nutty flavor of sesame with smooth noodles. This easy vegan version features a rich sesame dressing that perfectly coats the noodles, making it a delightful meal for lunch or dinner, served warm or cold.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz. noodles (your choice)
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse.
2. In a bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and tahini.
3. Toss cooked noodles in the dressing until well-coated.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving for an extra touch.

FAQs:
– Can I use gluten-free noodles? Yes, rice noodles or another gluten-free option works great.

18. Plant-Based Char Siu Buns

Craving a delicious snack? These plant-based char siu buns are a vegan twist on a traditional favorite. Stuffed with a flavorful mixture of marinated mushrooms and spices, these soft buns are a delightful treat. Perfect for dim sum, parties, or a cozy night in, they’re sure to impress!

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 cup diced mushrooms
– 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions:
1. Mix flour and warm water to form a dough, knead until smooth, and let it rise.
2. Sauté mushrooms with hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and sugar until well combined.
3. Roll out the dough, cut into circles, fill with mushroom mixture, and seal.
4. Steam for about 15 minutes until buns are fluffy and cooked through.

FAQs:
– Can these be made a day in advance? Yes, prepare and steam them the next day for a quick meal.

19. Vegan Wontons

On the hunt for a versatile snack? Vegan wontons are a delightful option! Filled with a tasty mix of mushrooms, tofu, and spices, these wontons offer a satisfying bite that’s hard to resist. They can be steamed or fried and served in a hot broth or with a soy-based dipping sauce, making them a fantastic appetizer or snack for any occasion.

Ingredients:
– 1 package wonton wrappers
– 1 cup crumbled tofu
– 1 cup chopped mushrooms
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix tofu, mushrooms, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
2. Place a teaspoon of the filling in the center of each wonton wrapper.
3. Fold over and seal the edges with a little water.
4. Steam for about 10 minutes or fry until golden for a crispy treat.

FAQs:
– Can I freeze the wontons? Yes, you can freeze them before cooking for later use.

Vegan wontons prove plant-powered snacks can steal the show at any gathering. Sautéed mushrooms and crumbled tofu lock in flavor, and a quick soy dip—served hot with steam or fry—turns simple bites into irresistible street-food magic.

20. Pineapple Buns

In the mood for something sweet? Pineapple buns are a delightful vegan treat that’s both crispy on top and soft inside. Despite their name, they don’t actually contain pineapple but are named for their appearance. Perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea, these buns are a wonderful snack enjoyed warm from the oven.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup vegan butter

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add coconut milk and melted butter, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Shape into buns and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15 minutes until golden and enjoy warm with a cup of tea!

FAQs:
– Can I use almond milk instead of coconut milk? Yes, almond milk can be substituted for a different flavor.

Fun fact: Pineapple buns bake to a crispy top in about 12–15 minutes, with a soft interior every time. In this vegan chinese snacks recipe, swapping dairy for coconut milk keeps the texture light and the flavor craving-worthy. Bake warm and share for breakfast or tea.

Conclusion

Exploring these vegan Chinese snack recipes offers a tasty glimpse into the delightful world of Chinese street food. Each dish brings its unique flavors and textures, showing that plant-based eating doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. From crispy spring rolls to fluffy bao buns, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So gather your ingredients, embrace the rich flavors, and take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey today!

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