Vegan Mekong Delta Kho Quet Recipe

Vegan Kho Quet from the Mekong Delta is not just a simple dish but also full of rustic flavors. With an easy recipe and accessible ingredients, you can make this delicious and flavorful vegan Kho Quet at home to enjoy with your family. Let’s explore the detailed recipe below!

Ingredients Needed

To make authentic Mekong Delta vegan Kho Quet, you will need the following ingredients:

• Fried Tofu: 2 blocks (choose golden fried tofu).
• Straw Mushrooms: 100g (or substitute with shiitake or oyster mushrooms as preferred).
• Lemongrass: 3 stalks, finely chopped.
• Chili: 2-3 peppers (adjust according to your spice preference).
• Green Onions: 2 stalks, finely chopped.
• Seasonings: Vegan fish sauce, sugar, vegan seasoning powder, ground black pepper, cooking oil.
• (Optional): Vegan shrimp: 50g (soaked until soft, chopped if desired to enhance flavor).

Ingredients for vegan Kho Quet

Detailed Instructions for Making Mekong Delta Vegan Kho Quet

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

• Fried Tofu: Cut into bite-sized cubes.
• Straw Mushrooms: Clean and cut in half or quarters if large.
• Lemongrass and Chili: Finely chop.
• Green Onions: Finely chop.
• (Optional): If using vegan shrimp, soak in warm water until soft, drain, and chop.

Step 2: Sautéing Lemongrass and Chili

Heat a pan over the stove, add a little cooking oil, and heat it up. Add the chopped lemongrass and sauté until lightly golden. Then, add the chopped chili and stir to release the distinctive aroma.

Step 3: Braising Tofu and Mushrooms

Add the tofu and straw mushrooms to the pan, stirring well. Add about 2-3 tablespoons of vegan fish sauce, 1-2 tablespoons of sugar, and a little vegan seasoning powder. Season to taste. Stir well to ensure the flavors are evenly absorbed by the tofu and mushrooms.

“The secret to delicious vegan Kho Quet lies in braising it over low heat and adjusting the seasoning gradually.” – Cô Ba Sữa, vegan cooking expert in Cần Thơ.

Step 4: Braising Kho Quet Until Thickened

Cook over low heat and braise the Kho Quet until the sauce thickens, and the tofu and mushrooms are well-seasoned. Stir occasionally to prevent the Kho Quet from burning.

Step 5: Finishing and Serving

Once the Kho Quet has thickened, turn off the heat. Sprinkle finely chopped green onions and ground black pepper on top to enhance the flavor. Serve the Kho Quet in a bowl with white rice or steamed vegetables.

Mekong Delta vegan Kho Quet

“Vegan Kho Quet is best enjoyed hot, especially with steamed sweet potato leaves or water spinach.” – Anh Tư Bền, a native of the Mekong Delta.

Tips to Make Vegan Kho Quet Even Better

• Add a bit of palm sugar for a natural sweet flavor.
• If you like it spicy, you can add chili powder or vegan chili sauce.
• To store it longer, let the Kho Quet cool completely, then store it in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator.

“Adding a bit of ground fermented soybean paste will make the vegan Kho Quet richer and more aromatic.” – Chị Năm Hương, home vegan cooking expert.

What to Eat with Vegan Kho Quet?

Vegan Kho Quet is a perfect side dish with:

• Hot steamed rice.
• Steamed vegetables: Sweet potato leaves, water spinach, okra, cucumber, etc.
• Steamed green beans, luffa, or winter melon.

Additionally, you can use vegan Kho Quet as a sauce for fresh noodles or serve it with crispy rice.

Conclusion

With a simple recipe and easy-to-find ingredients, Mekong Delta vegan Kho Quet is sure to satisfy your whole family. Not only is it delicious, but this dish also carries the rich flavors of home, perfect for a light vegan meal. Give it a try and share your results!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

• How long can vegan Kho Quet be stored?
  Vegan Kho Quet can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days.
• What can I use instead of tofu?
  You can use fried bean curd sticks.
• How can I make vegan Kho Quet more colorful?
  Add a bit of annatto oil for a beautiful orange-red color.
• What else can I eat with vegan Kho Quet besides steamed vegetables?
  You can serve it with crispy rice or use it as a sauce for fresh noodles.
• Is vegan fish sauce necessary?
  Vegan fish sauce adds a distinctive flavor, but you can substitute it with salt or soy sauce.
• Can I use other types of mushrooms besides straw mushrooms?
  Absolutely. You can use shiitake, oyster, or any other mushrooms you prefer.
• How can I prevent vegan Kho Quet from being too salty?
  Season gradually and taste frequently during the braising process to adjust the amount of vegan fish sauce accordingly.