Why do we have vegetarian cuisine in Hong Kong?
Vegetarianism has deep roots in Hong Kong, largely influenced by Buddhist traditions. Buddhist monks and followers have long practiced vegetarianism as a way of promoting compassion and minimising harm to living beings. You will also find that many Hong Kong people will choose to eat a vegetarian diet on the 1st and 15th days of each lunar month due to ancient beliefs and the significance of renewal, cleansing and a fresh start that comes along with the new moon and full moon stages of the lunar calendar. This has led to the development of a rich vegetarian cuisine that emphasises fresh vegetables, tofu, and grains. The simplicity of these dishes also stems from historical economic constraints; during hard times, many families could only afford plant-based meals due to the high cost of meat.
Vitasoy and Soy Products
Since its introduction in 1940 by Lo Kwee-seong, Vitasoy is an established iconic brand in Hong Kong, deeply woven into the city’s pop culture and collective memory. Often referred to as “childhood in a box,” Vitasoy’s distinctive soy milk evokes nostalgia among many, while seasonal warm soy milk sold in glass bottles is a beloved winter treat. Lo Kwee-seong was a Hakka entrepreneur who founded Vitasoy amidst the socio-economic challenges of the time. Inspired by a talk on soybeans, which were referred to as “the cow of China” for their high protein content, Lo recognized the need for affordable, nutritious food. Vitasoy products have become an integral part of vegetarian cuisine in Hong Kong. Read more on the history of the company here in this SCMP article.
For some of the best examples of beancurd and tofu products, visit the family-run shop Kung Wo Beancurd Factory, G/F, 118 Pei Ho Street, Sham Shui Po.
Buddhist Vegetarian cuisine
Buddhist vegetarian cuisine often features humble ingredients prepared with great care. The focus is on enhancing the natural flavours of vegetables and using herbs and spices to create delicious dishes. The use of ingredients like fermented bean curd, wheat gluten or seitan, mushrooms, and a variety of vegetables allows for a delicious depth of flavour. These days you will also find many meat alternatives used in these dishes. However, you will not find pungent vegetables included in the preparation of Buddhist dishes, such as garlic, chive, leek and onion – these are said to increase sexual desire when cooked, and anger when eaten raw. This particular diet is a cornerstone of vegetarian cuisine among Buddhists.
For some of the best examples of Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, visit the restaurants at Chi Lin Nunnery in Kowloon or Po Lin Nunnery on Lantau Island (next to the Big Buddha), or Fook Lau Sau Vegetarian Restaurant, 8 Tit Hong Lane, Central.
Classic Vegetarian Hong Kong Foods
While vegetarian cuisine has its own identity, here are some classic Hong Kong foods which are also vegetarian:
- Pineapple Bun (菠蘿包): This sweet bun topped with a crumbly, pineapple-shaped crust is a beloved snack. Depending on your vegetarian preferences, this is often enjoyed with a slice of butter (also contains milk and eggs).
- Egg Tart (蛋撻): Though traditionally made with eggs, these tarts can sometimes be found in vegetarian variations. The flaky crust and creamy filling make it a staple dessert (also contains milk and butter). See our other post about the differences between Hong Kong and the Macau style egg tarts here.
- Milk Tea (奶茶): Hong Kong-style milk tea is typically made with black tea and evaporated milk. Learn more about Hong Kong Milk tea here in another one of our posts.
4. Red Bean Pancakes (紅豆燒餅): Soft rice-dough pancakes, fried lightly each side, and filled with sweet red bean paste, offering a delightful contrast of textures.
5. Steamed Rice Rolls (腸粉): Silky and smooth steamed rice noodle rolls served with soy sauce, sweet sauce, sesame sauce, chilli sauce (optional) and sesame seeds. The combination of the sauces add something special to the flavour to this inexpensive street food.
6. Tofu Pudding (豆腐花): A soft and silky dessert made from fresh tofu, usually served with syrup or sweet toppings.
Most of these items can be found in the many local bakeries or Cha Chaan Tengs (Hong Kong style cafés), such as Kam Wai Café in Mong Kok, Lang Fong Yuen in Central and Kam Kee Café in Aberdeen.
Other vegetarian Chinese dishes VERY worth trying
Hong Kong’s vegetarian offerings include a variety of delicious dishes, such as:
- Three Treasures of the Earth (地三鲜): A stir-fry of eggplant, potatoes, and bell peppers, showcasing the rich flavors of fresh vegetables.
- Stir-Fried Spicy and Numbing Potato Noodles (麻辣燙炒薯粉): A spicy dish that combines chewy potato noodles with a mix of vegetables and spices.
- Vegetable Dumplings (素饺子): Steamed or pan-fried dumplings filled with a mix of seasonal vegetables.
The Three Treasures is a classic Buddhist vegetarian dish found in their restaurants. The spicy noodles can be found in Sichuan restaurants such as Chilli Fagara in Central, and the vegetable dumplings are a mainstay of Hong Kong – try Grandma’s dumplings in Tai Wai (婆婆家餃子館).
Vegetarian Food Tour
If you don’t have a lot of time to explore these places on your own, come with us on our Hong Kong Greeters vegetarian food tour with a small group of like-minded individuals. This is an excellent way to explore the city’s vibrant culinary scene through delicious plant-based dishes. Find out more here: Vegetarian food tour. Join us to discover the best of vegetarian cuisine in Hong Kong.
