Are you a vegetarian and worried about finding delicious and satisfying food options in China? Look no further! In this blog post, we will take you on a journey of discovering the best vegetarian cuisine in Beijing, Shanghai, and beyond. From traditional Chinese dishes to fusion delicacies, there is something for every taste bud. Join us as we explore the dynamic culinary landscape of China and uncover hidden gems that are sure to leave your palate fully satisfied.
What is a vegetarian diet?
A vegetarian diet is one that excludes meat, fish, and poultry. Vegetarians can consume eggs and dairy products, but these are not required. A vegetarian diet can be healthy, filling, and tasty.
One of the main benefits of a vegetarian diet is that it is lower in harmful animal by-products. These include cholesterol, saturated fat, and hormones. In addition, vegetarian diets are high in fiber and antioxidants which may protect against cancer and other diseases.
There are many delicious vegetarian dishes to enjoy in Beijing, Shanghai, and beyond. Here are three examples:
Vegetarian Mock Tofu in Garlic Sauce
Vegetable Lo Mein with Chungking Rice
Crispy Tofu with Ginger and Green Onion
Types of Vegetarian Diets
There are a range of vegetarian diets out there, so it can be hard to decide which one is best for you. Below are the three most common types of vegetarian diets:
1) Plant-based: This type of diet revolves around eating mostly plant-based foods, with a small amount of animal products mixed in. It’s a relatively easy and sustainable way to eat, as many plants are high in nutrients and have low calories. A plant-based diet can be helpful if you want to lose weight or lower your risk for certain health conditions, like heart disease or cancer.
2) Vegan: This type of diet excludes all animal products, including eggs and milk. Many vegans also avoid refined sugars, processed foods, and other objects that were produced using animals. Consuming a vegan diet is often considered an environmentally friendly choice, as dairy production requires vast amounts of land, water, and oil.
3) Vegetarianism with mod cons: Some people don’t subscribe entirely to any one kind of vegetarianism but still follow certain dietary guidelines. For instance, someone following a vegetarian diet with mod cons might include some animal products every once in awhile. Mod cons generally refer to things like eating organic foods or limiting consumption red meat to three times per week instead of never eating it at all.
Vegetarian Restaurants in Beijing, Shanghai and Beyond
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious vegetarian meal, Beijing, Shanghai and beyond offer plenty of options. Here are our top picks:
Beijing: Veggie House – This popular chain offers an extensive menu with options for everyone, from vegan to gluten-free cuisine. The restaurant also features a range of healthy drinks and smoothies.
Shanghai: Green Grocer – Located right in the heart of bar district Lujiazui, this store offers an encyclopedic array of vegetarian food. From 100% organic produce to international brands like Health Warrior, Green Grocer has something for everyone.
Beyond these three cities, there are countless amazing vegetarian restaurants waiting to be discovered. Check out the websites of TripAdvisor or HappyCow for great tips on where to find the best ones near you.
The Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Beijing, Shanghai and Beyond
When looking for vegan, vegetarian and plant-based restaurants in Beijing, Shanghai and beyond, it can be difficult to know where to start. Thankfully, we’ve put together a list of the best vegetarian eateries in each city.
In Beijing:
1) Zhen Xin Vegetarian Restaurant
2) Green Lotus Vegetarian Restaurant
3) Mandala Vegetarian Restaurant
4) GongFu Patrol Vegetarian Cuisine
5) Hai Di Lao Vegetarian Noodle Bar
In Shanghai:
1) Nirvana Temple Vegetarians
2) The Fifth Element Vegan Bistro
3) Dharma Kitchen (Chineshaverian Style Veg*n Dishes)*
4) Pure foods Plaza (Vegetarian Health Food Store)*
5) Wild Greens Point [Chinese] Chaoyang District Vegetarian Restaurant
Conclusion
As a vegetarian, it can be difficult to find delicious and satisfying food that does not include any meat products. However, there are plenty of excellent vegetarian restaurants in Beijing, Shanghai, and other major Chinese cities that offer dishes that will satisfy even the most ardent meat eater. From fresh vegetable dumplings to curries bursting with exotic spices, these restaurants have something for everyone who is looking for an amazing vegetarian meal. We hope you enjoy trying out some of our favorites and please let us know if you have other recommendations!