Table of contents
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need to make this dish:
Beyond Meat
Beyond Meat is a plant-based protein that has revolutionized the world of vegetarian and vegan cuisine. It has a texture and taste that closely resembles real meat, making it a popular choice for those who are looking to reduce their meat consumption or follow a plant-based diet. Beyond Meat is made from pea protein, beet juice, and other natural ingredients, and it is a great source of protein and other essential nutrients.
When preparing the braised vegetables with ginger, garlic, and sugar for a savory side dish, Beyond Meat can be used as a substitute for real meat. It will give the dish a similar flavor and texture to traditional meat-based dishes, but with the added benefits of being plant-based and healthier. Beyond Meat is also a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from burgers to stir-fries.
To prepare the Beyond Meat for this dish, simply follow the instructions on the package. It can be cooked on the stove, in the oven, or on the grill, just like real meat. Once it is cooked, it can be added to the dish along with the vegetables and sauce, and then braised until everything is tender and flavorful. The result is a delicious and nutritious dish that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates.
Assorted Vegetables (carrots, onions, celery, etc.)
Assorted vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery are a staple in many Chinese dishes, and they add both texture and flavor to any meal. When combined with ginger, garlic, and sugar, they create a savory side dish that is perfect for any occasion.
These vegetables are not only delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients, making them an excellent addition to any diet. Carrots are a great source of vitamin A, while onions and celery are packed with antioxidants and fiber. When cooked together, they create a delicious medley of flavors that complement the ginger and garlic perfectly.
When making this braised vegetable dish, it is important to choose fresh, high-quality produce for the best results. You can experiment with different combinations of vegetables to find your favorite flavor profile. Some other great options to consider include bell peppers, mushrooms, and bok choy.
Overall, the assorted vegetables in this dish are the perfect complement to the Beyond Meat, adding both flavor and nutrition to this savory side dish. Whether you are a vegetarian or just looking for a healthy and delicious dish to add to your repertoire, this braised vegetable dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Garlic
Garlic is a staple ingredient in many Chinese dishes, and it plays a crucial role in this savory side dish. Not only does it add a pungent and aromatic flavor to the dish, but it also has numerous health benefits.
Garlic is known to boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease. It contains compounds that have antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it a natural remedy for common illnesses such as colds and flu.
When cooking with garlic, it's important to use fresh cloves and to chop or crush them finely to release their full flavor. In this recipe, we recommend using two to three cloves of garlic, depending on your preference.
To prepare the garlic, simply peel and finely chop the cloves. Then, in step three of the recipe, sauté the garlic along with the ginger until fragrant. This will help to infuse the dish with their flavors and aromas.
Overall, garlic is an essential ingredient in this braised vegetable dish with Beyond Meat. Not only does it add depth and complexity to the flavor profile, but it also provides numerous health benefits. So go ahead and add a little extra garlic to your recipe – your taste buds (and your body) will thank you for it!
Ginger
Ginger is an essential ingredient in Chinese cuisine, adding a unique flavor and aroma to dishes. Its distinct taste is both spicy and sweet, making it a versatile ingredient to use in a variety of dishes.
When using ginger in your cooking, it's important to note that the flavor will vary depending on how it's prepared. Grated ginger will have a stronger, more pungent flavor, while sliced ginger will have a milder taste.
In this Beyond Meat recipe, we'll be using sliced ginger to add a subtle flavor to the dish. When cooking with ginger, it's important to add it early on in the cooking process to allow the flavor to infuse into the dish.
To prepare the ginger, simply peel it and slice it thinly. You can either use a knife or a mandoline slicer to achieve thin, even slices. Once sliced, add the ginger to the pan along with the garlic to cook and infuse their flavors together.
Ginger is not only a flavorful addition to dishes, but it also has many health benefits. It's known for aiding in digestion, reducing inflammation, and boosting the immune system. So not only does it taste great, but it's also good for you!
Overall, ginger is a crucial ingredient in Chinese cooking, and it adds a unique and delicious flavor to any dish. So be sure to incorporate it into your cooking and enjoy its many benefits!
Sugar
Sugar is an essential ingredient in many Chinese dishes, and it adds a sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients. In this recipe for braising vegetables with Beyond Meat, garlic, and ginger, sugar plays a crucial role in balancing out the savory and umami flavors of the dish.
When selecting sugar for this recipe, it's best to use a light brown sugar or raw cane sugar. These varieties have a subtle caramel flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. It's important to add the sugar at the right time during the cooking process, so it has a chance to dissolve and caramelize without burning.
To incorporate the sugar into the recipe, simply add it to the pan after cooking the garlic and ginger. Stir it around the pan for a minute or two until it starts to melt and caramelize. This step helps to create a rich, aromatic base for the rest of the ingredients.
Overall, the addition of sugar in this recipe is an important element in creating a balanced and flavorful dish. It's a simple and effective way to add a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor to the vegetables and Beyond Meat.
Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is a key ingredient in many Chinese dishes, and it plays an important role in this braised vegetable recipe featuring Beyond Meat. Soy sauce is a fermented sauce made from soybeans, wheat, salt, and water. It adds depth and richness to the dish, and the umami flavor it provides will leave your taste buds satisfied.
When selecting a soy sauce for this recipe, it's important to choose one that is low in sodium. Too much salt can overpower the other flavors in the dish. Look for a light or reduced-sodium soy sauce at your local grocery store.
In this recipe, the soy sauce is used to create a savory sauce that coats the vegetables and Beyond Meat. The sauce is made by combining soy sauce, water, and sugar, which is then poured over the vegetables and Beyond Meat. The soy sauce enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and helps to create a cohesive dish.
Overall, soy sauce is an essential ingredient in Chinese cuisine and it's a key component in this delicious braised vegetable recipe featuring Beyond Meat. Whether you're a vegetarian or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this dish is sure to impress.
Water
Water is a crucial ingredient in many dishes, and it plays an important role in this Beyond Meat and braised vegetable side dish. When braising, water is used to create a flavorful sauce that coats the vegetables and Beyond Meat, enhancing their taste and texture.
The amount of water used in this dish will depend on how much sauce you want to make. Generally, it's best to start with a smaller amount and add more as needed. Too much water can dilute the flavor of the dish, while too little can result in a dry, unappetizing meal.
To ensure that the water is evenly distributed throughout the dish, it's important to add it at the right time. In this recipe, water is added after the vegetables and Beyond Meat have been cooked for a short time. This allows the flavors to meld together before the liquid is added.
When adding the water, it's important to use cold water to prevent the vegetables and Beyond Meat from becoming tough. The water should be added gradually, a little at a time, to prevent the sauce from becoming too thin.
Overall, water is an essential ingredient in this braised vegetable and Beyond Meat dish. It helps to create a flavorful sauce that brings all of the ingredients together, resulting in a dish that is both savory and satisfying.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch is a versatile ingredient that has many culinary uses, and this savory side dish recipe is no exception. In this recipe, cornstarch is used to thicken the sauce and give it a slightly glossy appearance, making it more visually appealing.
When using cornstarch as a thickener, it's important to mix it with a cold liquid before adding it to the hot liquid. This prevents lumps from forming and ensures that it blends well with the other ingredients. In this recipe, the cornstarch is mixed with water before being added to the sauce.
Cornstarch is also a common ingredient in Chinese cuisine, where it's often used to coat meat before frying it. This creates a crispy outer layer and helps to seal in the juices, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. However, in this recipe, the cornstarch is used solely as a thickener and not for coating the Beyond Meat.
Overall, cornstarch is an essential ingredient in this recipe as it helps to create the desired texture and consistency of the sauce. It's a great example of how a small amount of an ingredient can have a big impact on the end result of a dish.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make this savory side dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Beyond Meat
When it comes to vegetarian and vegan options, Beyond Meat has quickly become a popular choice for those looking to reduce their meat consumption. Made from plant-based ingredients, this meat substitute is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. In this recipe, we're going to braise the Beyond Meat with vegetables, ginger, garlic, and sugar for a savory side dish that's sure to impress.
Before we get started, it's important to properly prepare the Beyond Meat. Beyond Meat comes in a variety of forms, including ground "beef," sausage, and even "chicken" strips. For this recipe, we'll be using the Beyond Meat "beef" strips.
To prepare the Beyond Meat, start by removing it from the package and separating any strips that may be stuck together. Then, pat the strips dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the Beyond Meat to brown and develop a nice texture when cooking.
Now that the Beyond Meat is prepped and ready to go, it's time to move on to the next step: preparing the vegetables.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
The vegetables used in this recipe can vary depending on your preference or what is available in your pantry. However, it is important to choose vegetables that can hold up well during the braising process. Carrots, onions, celery, and mushrooms are great options.
To prepare the vegetables, start by washing and peeling the carrots. Cut them into small pieces or slices. Next, chop the onions into small pieces and slice the celery diagonally. If using mushrooms, wipe them clean with a damp cloth and slice them.
It is important to ensure that the vegetables are cut into evenly sized pieces so that they cook evenly. This will also give your dish a more visually appealing presentation.
Once the vegetables are prepared, set them aside and move on to the next step.
Step 3: Cook the Ginger and Garlic
Step 3: Cook the Ginger and Garlic
Cooking ginger and garlic is a crucial step in this recipe as it brings out the flavors of these two ingredients and enhances the overall taste of the dish. To start with this step, heat up a pan or wok over medium-high heat and add some oil to it. Once the oil is hot, add the ginger and garlic to the pan and stir-fry them for 30 seconds to a minute or until fragrant.
It's important to keep stirring the ginger and garlic to prevent them from burning. You can also add a pinch of salt to the pan to help release the flavors and aromas of these ingredients. The ginger and garlic will start to turn golden brown as they cook, giving your dish a rich and savory flavor.
Once the ginger and garlic are cooked, you can proceed to the next step and add the vegetables to the pan. The flavors of the ginger and garlic will infuse into the vegetables, creating a delicious and fragrant side dish. Not only does cooking ginger and garlic add flavor to the dish, but it also has health benefits such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.
In conclusion, cooking ginger and garlic is an essential step in this recipe that should not be skipped. It brings out the flavors of these two ingredients and adds depth and complexity to the dish. So, take your time and enjoy the aroma of the ginger and garlic as you stir-fry them to perfection.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Now that the ginger and garlic have infused the oil with their delicious flavors, it’s time to add the vegetables. You can use any assortment of vegetables that you have on hand, such as carrots, onions, celery, and bell peppers. The key is to cut them into evenly sized pieces so that they cook evenly.
Add the vegetables to the wok or pan and stir-fry them for a few minutes until they start to soften. You want them to still have a bit of crunch, so don't overcook them. Keep stirring the vegetables to ensure they cook evenly and don't stick to the bottom of the pan.
If you're using vegetables that take longer to cook, such as carrots or potatoes, you may want to add them to the pan first and let them cook for a few minutes before adding the other vegetables.
Adding the vegetables to the dish not only adds flavor, but also provides a healthy dose of nutrients. Vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them an important part of any diet.
Once the vegetables are cooked, it's time to move on to the next step and add the Beyond Meat to the dish.
Step 5: Add the Beyond Meat
In Step 5 of this recipe, it's time to add the star of the show - the Beyond Meat! This plant-based protein is a great alternative to traditional meat, providing the same delicious taste and texture without the environmental impact or ethical concerns.
To prepare the Beyond Meat, simply follow the package instructions for cooking. Once it's ready, add it to the pan with the vegetables and stir well to combine. The Beyond Meat will soak up all the flavors of the ginger, garlic, and sugar, making for a savory and satisfying side dish.
One of the best things about using Beyond Meat in this recipe is that it's versatile enough to work with almost any type of vegetable. Whether you choose carrots, onions, celery, or a mix of all three, you can rest assured that the Beyond Meat will pair perfectly with them.
Overall, adding Beyond Meat to this braised vegetable recipe is a great way to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet while still enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal. So go ahead and give it a try - your taste buds (and the planet) will thank you!
Step 6: Add the Sauce
Step 6: Add the Sauce
After the vegetables and Beyond Meat have been cooked, it's time to add the savory sauce that will tie everything together. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce and water with a tablespoon of cornstarch to create a slurry. This slurry will help thicken the sauce and give it a nice, glossy finish.
Pour the slurry into the pan with the vegetables and Beyond Meat, stirring gently to incorporate. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened to your desired consistency.
The combination of soy sauce and sugar in the sauce gives it a wonderful umami flavor, while the ginger and garlic add a nice kick of spice. The sauce should coat the vegetables and Beyond Meat evenly, creating a delicious glaze that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Once the sauce has thickened, it's time to serve and enjoy! This dish makes an excellent side dish for any Chinese-inspired meal, or it can even be enjoyed as a main course with some rice on the side. The Beyond Meat adds a nice protein boost to the dish, making it a satisfying and filling option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Overall, this braised vegetable and Beyond Meat dish is a delicious and healthy option for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet. With a flavorful sauce and a variety of colorful vegetables, it's sure to be a hit at any dinner table.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
To give this dish a nice consistency, it’s important to thicken the sauce. To do this, you’ll need to create a slurry using cornstarch and water. This will help to bind the sauce together and give it a nice, thick texture.
To make the slurry, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Stir until the cornstarch is completely dissolved and there are no lumps. Then, pour the slurry into the pot with the vegetables and Beyond Meat.
Stir the mixture continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Be sure to keep an eye on it so that the sauce doesn't burn or over-thicken. If the sauce is still too thin, you can add a little more cornstarch and water mixture until you reach the desired consistency.
Once the sauce has thickened, turn off the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to cool down. This will allow the sauce to set and thicken even more. Give it a final stir before serving to make sure that everything is evenly coated.
This savory side dish is now ready to be served! The combination of braised vegetables, Beyond Meat, and a thickened sauce is the perfect addition to any meal.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
After all the hard work and effort put into preparing this delicious braised vegetable dish, it is time to serve and enjoy the fruits of your labor. The aroma of the ginger, garlic, and sugar will have your mouth watering before you even take a bite.
To serve, carefully ladle the Beyond Meat and vegetable mixture onto a serving dish. The colorful combination of vegetables and the savory Beyond Meat will create a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests.
Garnish the dish with some fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for an added burst of flavor and color. Serve with a side of steamed rice or noodles to sop up all the delicious sauce.
This dish is perfect for a vegetarian or vegan main course, or as a side dish for a larger meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep or a quick and easy lunch.
In conclusion, this braised vegetable dish with Beyond Meat is a flavorful and satisfying way to enjoy a meatless meal. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a delicious and healthy dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more. So go ahead, serve and enjoy!
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