Vegan Kung Pao Chicken​ Recipe

Here’s a delicious recipe for Vegan Kung Pao Chicken that captures the flavors of the classic dish while using plant-based ingredients.

Vegan Kung Pao Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

For the Vegan Chicken:

• 1 (1-pound) package vegan chicken (such as soy curls or seitan), chopped
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing cooking wine (or dry sherry)

For the Sauce:

• ¼ cup vegetable broth or vegan chicken stock
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing cooking wine
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegan oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon black vinegar (or balsamic vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil (or any neutral oil)
• 1 medium zucchini, large diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, large diced
• 3 green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)
• 6 dried chiles (Tien Tsin peppers or chile de arbol)
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon ground Sichuan pepper
• ⅓ cup lightly salted roasted peanuts

Instructions

Marinate the Vegan Chicken:

• In a large bowl, combine the vegan chicken, soy sauce, cornstarch, and Shaoxing cooking wine. Toss well and let it marinate for about 20 to 30 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce:

• In a small bowl, mix together the vegetable broth, rice vinegar, Shaoxing cooking wine, soy sauce, vegan oyster sauce, black vinegar, sugar, and cornstarch. Set aside.

Stir-Fry:

• Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add the grapeseed oil.
• Once hot, add the marinated vegan chicken in batches if necessary. Stir-fry until lightly golden brown, then remove from the pan and set aside.
• In the same pan, add zucchini and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
• Add green onions and dried chiles; stir-fry for another minute.
• Add ginger, garlic, Sichuan pepper, and peanuts; stir-fry for an additional minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Combine Everything:

• Return the cooked vegan chicken to the pan. Quickly whisk the prepared sauce and pour it over the stir-fry.
• Stir well to coat all ingredients with the sauce. Cook for another minute until everything is heated through and the sauce thickens.

Serve:

• Serve your Vegan Kung Pao Chicken over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with additional green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Tips

• Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or fewer dried chiles based on your preference.
• You can also add other vegetables such as broccoli or snap peas for extra nutrition.

What Are Some Good Substitutes for Soy Curls in Vegan Kung Pao Chicken?

• Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu can be cubed and marinated similarly to soy curls.
• Seitan: This wheat-based meat alternative has a chewy texture that works well in stir-fries.
• Chickpeas: For a protein-packed option, use canned chickpeas, which can be sautéed until crispy.
• Tempeh: This fermented soy product has a nutty flavor and can be cubed or crumbled.

How Can I Make the Vegan Kung Pao Chicken Spicier?

• Add More Dried Chiles: Increase the number of dried chiles used in the recipe.
• Incorporate Fresh Chilies: Add sliced fresh chilies (like jalapeños or Thai bird chilies) for extra heat.
• Use Chili Paste or Sauce: Stir in chili garlic sauce or Sriracha into the sauce mixture.
• Add Sichuan Peppercorns: These provide a unique numbing heat that enhances spiciness.

Can I Use a Different Type of Vinegar in the Marinade?

Yes, you can use different types of vinegar:

• Apple Cider Vinegar: A good substitute that adds a mild tang.
• White Vinegar: This can work but may be more acidic, so use sparingly.
• Balsamic Vinegar: For a sweeter flavor, though it will change the taste profile slightly.

What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with Vegan Kung Pao Chicken?

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
2. Fried Rice: Vegetable fried rice adds extra flavor and texture.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas lightly sautéed as a side dish.
4. Noodles: Lo mein or rice noodles tossed with sesame oil and vegetables complement the dish well.
5. Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried spring rolls serve as a crunchy appetizer.

How Can I Make the Sauce Thicker Without Adding More Cornstarch?

• Use Arrowroot Powder: This thickening agent can be used instead of cornstarch and is often more effective at lower temperatures.
• Reduce the Sauce: Simmer the sauce longer to evaporate some liquid, naturally thickening it.
• Add Nut Butter: A spoonful of peanut butter or tahini can add creaminess and thickness while enhancing flavor.
• Use Pureed Vegetables: Blending cooked vegetables (like carrots or sweet potatoes) into the sauce can thicken it while adding nutrition.

This Vegan Kung Pao Chicken recipe is flavorful, satisfying, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner! Enjoy your meal!