Vegan Mongolian 'Beef' and Broccoli

Steamed or Boiled Rice: Jasmine, basmati, long-grain, easy-cook, or brown rice are great choices to serve alongside your Vegan Mongolian Beef and Broccoli. The rice will soak up the flavorful sauce and provide a nice contrast to the textures of the dish.

Noodles: Chow mein or rice noodles can be served as a side or mixed directly into the dish for a more substantial meal.

Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy and light, vegetable spring rolls make a delicious appetizer or side dish to accompany your main course.

Asian-Style Salad: A simple Asian-style salad with mixed greens, shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light soy-based dressing can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of Vegan Mongolian Beef and Broccoli.

Steamed or Stir-Fried Vegetables: Additional steamed or stir-fried vegetables, such as bok choy, beansprouts, snow peas, mangetout, or baby corncobs, can add extra color and nutrition to your meal.

Dumplings: Vegan dumplings, either steamed or pan-fried, can be a delicious side dish that complements the main course.

Edamame: Steamed edamame with a sprinkle of sea salt is a protein-rich and tasty side dish that pairs well with the flavors of the Vegan Mongolian Beef and Broccoli.

Cauliflower or Broccoli Fried Rice: For a low-carb alternative to steamed rice, try cauliflower or broccoli rice stir-fried with mixed vegetables and flavored with soy sauce and sesame oil.

Vegan Wonton Soup: A warm bowl of vegan wonton soup, featuring vegetable or tofu-filled dumplings.

Of course!

* Vegan pieces can be replaced with soy curls, soya chunks, seitan, tofu, tempeh, black beans, mushrooms, extra veggies. Fresh or frozen vegan pieces can be used but make sure to rehydrate any dried vegan pieces before using.

* Fresh garlic and ginger can be subbed for the dried varieties: for example 2 teaspoons of dried ginger and 2-3 teaspoons of dried garlic

* Not keen on bell pepper? sub the pepper out for the same amount of celery and courgette sliced into thin sticks.

* Broccoli is a traditional part of this dish but if preferred replace with kale, collards, spring greens, white cabbage, bok choy etc. Just consider the differences in cooking times compared to broccoli and adjust.

* This recipe uses maple syrup but any syrup can be used such as date, agave, rice or a sugar such as coconut, date or brown.

* Not keen on spring onions? Perhaps use chives, sliced fresh red onion rings, coriander [cilantro], sliced fresh green chilli's, etc.

* This recipe can be prepared using either 1-2 tablespoons of your usual oil, coconut oil is a good choice, or vegetable broth. If your watching your calories and fat intake, or on a no-oil diet then its a good idea to use the veggie broth.

Spring Onions: Thinly sliced spring onions or scallions can be sprinkled on top of the dish, adding a fresh, mildly pungent flavor and a burst of green color.

Sesame Seeds: Lightly toasted white or black sesame seeds can be sprinkled over the dish for added texture and a subtle nutty flavor.

Fresh Coriander: Chopped fresh coriander or cilantro leaves provide a vibrant, herbaceous note that pairs well with the flavors of the dish.

Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes can be added to the finished dish as a garnish.

Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows your guests to squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for a tangy, zesty accent.

Toasted Almonds or Cashews: For an extra crunch, you can sprinkle some toasted almonds or cashews over the dish.

Thinly Sliced Fresh Chili: If you prefer a spicier dish, garnish with thinly sliced fresh red or green chili peppers.

Edible Flowers: For an elegant touch, consider using edible flowers such as nasturtiums or chive blossoms as a garnish. We have nasturtiums growing wild in our garden and neighbourhood so its worth a look!

Yes with a few considerations this recipe is perfect for gluten-free diets:

Vegan Meat Pieces: Some vegan meat substitutes may contain gluten or be processed in facilities where cross-contamination could occur. Be sure to check the label for gluten-free certification or choose a vegan meat substitute made from gluten-free ingredients, such as soy-based products like tofu or tempeh.

Soy Sauce: Traditional soy sauce contains wheat and is not gluten-free. To make your dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free alternative like tamari or coconut aminos. Tamari is a Japanese soy sauce made without wheat, while coconut aminos is a soy-free sauce made from the sap of coconut palms.

Vegetable Broth: Some commercial vegetable broths may contain gluten or be processed in facilities where cross-contamination could occur. Check the label for gluten-free certification.

Cornstarch: Cornstarch is naturally gluten-free, but it's essential to ensure that the brand you are using is certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination. In the UK cornstarch is also known as cornflour.

Spices: Although spices are generally gluten-free, some spice blends or pre-packaged spices may contain gluten or be processed in facilities with cross-contamination. Check the label for gluten-free certification, and if possible, use individual, single-ingredient spices to create your own spice blend.

Preparing Vegan Mongolian Beef and Broccoli on a budget can be done by making a few adjustments to your ingredients and shopping strategy. Here are some tips to help you create a delicious and affordable meal:

Choose budget-friendly vegan meat alternatives: Instead of using store-bought vegan meat pieces, which can be expensive, opt for more affordable protein sources like tofu or textured vegetable protein [TVP]. These soy-based options are not only cost-effective but also highly versatile and nutritious. Alternatively, mushrooms are an idea meat-free alternative or simply use extra veggies.

Buy in bulk: Purchasing ingredients like soy sauce, white wine vinegar, maple syrup, and spices in larger quantities can help you save money in the long run. You can also store bulk dry goods like rice and noodles in airtight containers to keep them fresh.

Use frozen vegetables: If fresh broccoli is expensive or not in season, consider using frozen broccoli florets. They are often more affordable, and the quality is usually comparable to fresh vegetables.

Make your own vegetable broth: Instead of buying store-bought vegetable broth, which can be pricey, make your own at home using vegetable scraps, herbs, and water. Homemade vegetable broth not only saves money but also reduces food waste. Alternatively, water can be used to saute the onions, etc.

Opt for store brands: Many grocery stores and supermarkets offer their own brand of products at a lower cost than name-brand items. Check the labels of store-brand soy sauce, white wine vinegar, and other ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.

Shop sales and discounts: Keep an eye out for sales and discounts on ingredients you need for your recipe. You can also plan your meal around what's on sale or in season to maximize savings.

Always look in the reduced section of the store or supermarket and when you find a reduced broccoli snap it up and prepare this recipe! In the UK, the supermarkets tend to have discounted vegetables during special times of the year such as Easter and Christmas, so if possible buy in bulk and freeze the excess for future meals.

Also Lidl [UK] often have their £1.50 boxes of fresh vegetables and fruit available which are amazing cost savers.

Use Food Saving Apps: such as Olio, Too Good To Go, Karma etc for inexpensive or free food.

Substitute expensive ingredients: If maple syrup is too costly, consider using a more affordable sweetener like brown sugar, agave nectar, or even regular granulated sugar. Adjust the amount used based on the sweetness level desired.

Prepare larger portions: Cooking larger batches of Vegan Mongolian Beef and Broccoli can be more cost-effective and also provide leftovers for future meals. Divide the dish into meal-sized portions and freeze them for easy reheating on busy days.

Hosting a Chinese New Year or vegan Chinese-themed meal event at home can be a fun and engaging way to appreciate and experience Chinese culture and cuisine with your friends and family. Kids especially will have fun helping with the festivities.

Here are some tips to help your meal be a special memorable event:

Plan your menu: Select a variety of vegan Chinese dishes. Include appetizers, soups, main courses, and desserts. Consider featuring Chinese inspired dishes such as vegan dumplings, spring rolls, hot and sour soup, vegan Chinese 'chicken' And Sweetcorn Soup, Stir-Fry Soup, Kung Pao tofu, Tofu in a Sweet Peanut Sauce, vegan fried rice, and a sweet treat like almond cookies or sesame balls.

Prepare ingredients in advance: To save time and minimize stress on the day of the event, prepare and chop ingredients ahead of time, such as vegetables, sauces, and vegan protein sources. Store them in the refrigerator or freezer until needed.

Cook in batches: Many Chinese dishes, especially stir-fries, cook quickly at high heat. To maintain the quality and texture of each dish, consider cooking them in smaller batches and keeping them warm in the oven until ready to serve.

Set the table: Use red tablecloths, napkins, and decorations, as red is considered an auspicious color in Chinese culture. Decorate with Chinese lanterns, paper cuttings, and symbols of the current zodiac animal. Provide chopsticks for an authentic dining experience and have forks available for guests who are not comfortable using chopsticks.

Create a festive atmosphere: Play traditional Chinese music or contemporary Chinese pop songs in the background to set the mood. You can also have some Chinese New Year or cultural trivia and games prepared for your guests to enjoy between courses.

Serve tea: Chinese meals are often accompanied by tea. Offer a variety of Chinese teas such as jasmine, oolong, or pu-erh for your guests to choose from. Provide small teacups and a teapot for an authentic experience.

Use serving platters: Present the dishes family-style, using large serving platters or bowls to encourage sharing and conversation. This also allows guests to taste a variety of dishes and flavors.

Encourage guests to participate: Invite your guests to participate in the cooking process, such as assembling dumplings or spring rolls, which can be a fun and engaging activity.

Include traditional elements: Incorporate traditional customs or rituals into your event, such as giving out red envelopes (hongbao) with small gifts or money, or explaining the symbolism behind certain dishes and decorations.

Provide take-home containers: As a gesture of hospitality and abundance, provide take-home containers for your guests to bring leftovers home, which is considered auspicious in Chinese culture.