Vegan Kare Kare Recipe – A Delicious Blend Of Savory Flavors!

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Are you tired of traditional Kare Kare recipes that rely heavily on meat? Look no further! As a vegan food enthusiast, I understand the struggle to find flavorful plant-based alternatives to beloved Filipino dishes. But fear not, because I’m excited to share my favorite Vegan Kare Kare recipe with you today.

Picture this: succulent tofu simmered in a creamy coconut milk broth, infused with the earthy richness of ground peanuts and annatto seeds.

It’s a dish that satisfies your cravings and nourishes your body with wholesome ingredients. Join me on this culinary journey as we transform a classic favorite into a delightful vegan masterpiece.

What Is A Vegan Kare Kare Recipe?

A Vegan Kare Kare recipe is a plant-based adaptation of the traditional Filipino dish Kare Kare, which typically features meat stewed in a rich peanut sauce. In this version, meat is replaced with tofu or tempeh, and the sauce is made using coconut milk, ground peanuts, and annatto seeds for color and flavor.

It’s typically served with vegetables such as eggplant, string beans, and banana blossoms, creating a hearty, flavorful, satisfying, and cruelty-free dish.

Quick Fact: Kare Kare is a popular Filipino dish often served on special occasions. It is known for its rich peanut sauce and tender meat or vegetable components.

Recipe Directions 

• In a small bowl, soak annatto seeds in hot water to release color. Set aside.
• Slice vegetables: long beans into 2” pieces, eggplants diagonally into halves, then 2” pieces, and chop ends off bok choy.
• Heat the pan over medium-high and add 1 tbsp oil. Sauté eggplant until slightly tender (approx. 4 minutes), then set aside. Repeat with long beans, adding water if needed. Sauté bok choy for 2-3 minutes, set aside.
• In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Sauté garlic and onion for 2 minutes.
• Set the onion and garlic aside. Add the crushed peanuts. Toast for 4 minutes, then mix in the peanut butter.
• Pour in vegetable broth or water with vegetable cube. Simmer until peanut butter dissolves.
• Mix in rice flour and boil until the sauce thickens, stirring every 2-3 minutes.
• Strain annatto seeds, pour liquid into stew, and mix.
• Add sautéed vegetables and season with salt and sugar to taste.
• Adjust consistency with water or vegetable broth. Add more peanut butter if desired.
• Once vegetables are cooked, turn off the heat.
• Serve hot with rice and vegan bagoong or shrimp paste, if desired. Enjoy!

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

• Protein Options: Besides tofu or tempeh, you can use seitan, chickpeas, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
• Additional Vegetables: Experiment with squash, okra, or cabbage to enhance nutritional value and color.
• Peanut Butter Variations: Try using different nut or seed butter types, like almond butter or tahini, for a unique twist on the traditional peanut flavor.
• Spices and Herbs: Add depth of flavor with spices like cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika and fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil.
• Citrus Zest: Brighten the dish with a lemon or lime zest sprinkle before serving.
• Garnishes: Top with chopped roasted peanuts or cashews for added crunch or fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

• Coconut Milk Drizzle: Finish with a swirl of coconut milk for an extra creamy texture and a hint of sweetness.
• Pickled Vegetables: Serve alongside pickled vegetables such as radishes, carrots, or cucumber for a refreshing contrast to the rich peanut sauce.
• Vegan Shrimp Paste: Pair with homemade vegan paste or bagoong for an authentic Filipino condiment experience.
• Chili Oil: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, drizzle with homemade or store-bought chili oil to add heat to the dish.

Vegetable Substitutions 

• Squash: Substitute eggplant with kabocha squash or butternut squash for a slightly sweet and creamy texture.
• Okra: Add okra for a distinctive slimy texture and earthy flavor that complements the peanut sauce.
• Cabbage: Replace bok choy with cabbage for a crunchy and nutritious addition to the dish.
• Green Beans: Use green beans instead of long beans for a familiar yet refreshing twist on the traditional recipe.
• Carrots: Incorporate carrots for a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, adding flavor and visual appeal to the dish.
• Bell Peppers: Include bell peppers for a pop of color and a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Cauliflower: Substitute cauliflower florets for a hearty and versatile alternative that absorbs the flavors of the sauce well.

Quick Tip: For a creamier texture in vegan Kare Kare, blend a portion of cooked vegetables with the sauce before serving. Enjoy the enhanced richness!

Best Side Dishes

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice A classic accompaniment to soak up the rich peanut sauce.
2. Garlic Fried Rice Elevate the meal with aromatic garlic-infused rice for extra flavor.
3. Vegan Bagoong is a traditional Filipino condiment made from fermented vegetables. It provides a tangy and salty contrast to the creamy Kare Kare.
4. Pickled Vegetables Add a refreshing crunch and tanginess with pickled cucumbers, carrots, or radishes.
5. Fresh Greens Salad Balance the richness of the Kare Kare with a simple salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
6. Crispy Tofu Serve alongside crispy pan-fried tofu for added protein and texture.
7. Vegan Lumpia Enjoy crunchy spring rolls filled with vegetables as a delightful appetizer or side dish.
8. Steamed Vegetables To complement the hearty stew, choose a simple side of steamed broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots.

How To Serve?

• Serve Hot: Ensure the Kare Kare is piping hot to maximize enjoyment.
• With Steamed Jasmine Rice: Ladle the vegan Kare Kare over a bed of steamed jasmine rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Garnish: Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts or cashews over the Kare Kare for added texture and flavor.
• Accompaniments: Serve with traditional Filipino condiments such as vegan bagoong or shrimp paste on the side for extra flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro, Thai basil, or green onions to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• With Pickled Vegetables: Serve alongside pickled cucumbers, carrots, or radishes for a tangy and refreshing contrast.
• Crispy Tofu: Add crispy pan-fried tofu to the Kare Kare for additional protein and texture.
• Family Style: Present the vegan Kare Kare in a large serving dish at the center of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves and enjoy communal dining.

Quick Tip: For enhanced flavor, toast the ground peanuts before adding them to the vegan Kare Kare sauce. Enjoy the nutty richness it brings!

Storage & Make Ahead

• Storage: Leftover vegan Kare Kare can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the vegan Kare Kare in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before reheating and serving. This melts flavors and makes for a convenient meal option on busy days.

Recipe Fact: This vegan Kare Kare recipe creatively substitutes traditional meat with tofu, offering a cruelty-free yet flavorful twist on the beloved Filipino dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kare Kare Traditionally Made With Meat?

Yes, Kare Kare is traditionally made with meat, such as oxtail, pork hocks, or beef tripe. However, this vegan version substitutes meat with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.

Can I Adjust The Thickness Of The Peanut Sauce?

You can adjust the peanut sauce’s thickness by varying the rice flour used. Add more rice flour for a thicker sauce or less for a thinner consistency, depending on your preference.

Are There Any Nut-Free Alternatives For This Recipe?

Yes, suppose you have a nut allergy or prefer to avoid nuts. In that case, you can substitute crushed peanuts and peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a similar nutty flavor without the allergens.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead Of Time?

You can prepare the vegan Kare Kare and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it before serving, adjusting the consistency with a water or vegetable broth splash if needed.

What Are Some Traditional Garnishes For Kare Kare?

Traditional garnishes for Kare Kare include chopped roasted peanuts or cashews, sliced green onions, and calamansi or lime wedges. These garnishes add texture, freshness, and a hint of acidity to complement the rich flavors of the dish.