Weekly Buddhist Diet: Vegetarian Lion’s Head Meatballs

Weekly Buddhist Diet: Vegetarian Lion’s Head Meatballs

Fourth week of October 2025

Summary:
Vegetarian Lion’s Head Meatballs are a classic Chinese dish reimagined with wholesome plant-based ingredients. Instead of minced meat, this version uses tofu, shiitake mushrooms, and water chestnuts to achieve a soft yet structured texture. The tofu provides protein and a silky base, the mushrooms bring a deep umami aroma, and the water chestnuts add a refreshing crunch. The mixture is formed into large balls, lightly pan-fried until golden, and then simmered in vegetable broth to absorb flavor and achieve a tender, melt-in-the-mouth consistency. The finished dish glows golden in color with a savory, clean broth and a delightful balance of texture and taste. Rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals, this dish is nutritious yet light, making it a perfect main course for vegetarians. It symbolizes unity and prosperity, often served during festive meals or family gatherings, representing the refined beauty of Chinese vegetarian cuisine.

Ingredients:
· Tofu 300g (pressed and mashed)
· Shiitake mushrooms 3 (finely chopped)
· Water chestnuts 3 (minced)
· Carrot 30g (finely chopped)
· Light soy sauce 1 tablespoon
· Cornstarch 2 tablespoons
· Sesame oil 1 teaspoon
· Salt to taste
· Vegetable oil 2 tablespoons (for frying)
· Vegetable broth 400ml

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients
   Press the tofu to remove excess moisture and mash it. Finely chop the mushrooms, water chestnuts, and carrot. Place all in a mixing bowl.
2. Make the Filling
   Add soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and cornstarch. Stir well until the mixture becomes cohesive and sticky enough to form balls.
3. Shape and Fry
   Divide into about six large balls. Heat oil in a pan and fry over low heat until golden brown on all sides.
4. Simmer in Broth
   Transfer the fried balls to a pot with vegetable broth. Cover and simmer gently for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
5. Reduce and Season
   Uncover and cook for a few more minutes to slightly reduce the broth. Adjust salt or soy sauce to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Place the meatballs on a plate, spoon over some broth, and serve hot.

Plant-Based Wellness Tip:
Tofu provides high-quality plant protein, mushrooms boost immunity, and water chestnuts help cool the body and aid digestion, making this a balanced and nourishing dish.

Eat healthy, enjoy plant-based meals every week!