Vegetarian Ansim

Ingredients

In this vegetarian adaptation of Ansim, the original meat-based ingredients such as beef or pork are replaced with plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh. The traditional fish sauce is substituted with soy sauce or tamari to maintain the umami flavor. The overall cooking technique and flavor profile remain true to the original Korean dish, ensuring a satisfying vegetarian version. We alse have the original recipe for Ansim, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 zucchini, thinly sliced 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
• 200g (7oz) firm tofu, cubed 200g (7oz) firm tofu, cubed
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce or tamari 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) sesame oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) rice vinegar 1 tablespoon (15ml) rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey or maple syrup 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon (5g) Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru) 1 teaspoon (5g) Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice, for serving Cooked rice, for serving
• Sesame seeds, for garnish Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 10g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the red and green bell peppers, carrot, and zucchini to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
4. 4.
   Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the cubed tofu to the other side. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tofu is lightly browned.
5. 5.
   In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Korean red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
6. 6.
   Pour the sauce over the vegetables and tofu in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
7. 7.
   Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
8. 8.
   Remove from heat and serve the Vegetarian Ansim over cooked rice.
9. 9.
   Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tofu — Press the tofu before cubing it to remove excess moisture and enhance its texture.
• Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru) — Adjust the amount according to your spice preference. Add more for a spicier dish or reduce for a milder flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For added protein, you can substitute tofu with tempeh or seitan.
• Customize the vegetable selection based on seasonal availability.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a tangy twist.
• Serve with a side of kimchi for an authentic Korean experience.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra variety.

Serving advice

Serve the Vegetarian Ansim over a bed of steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro to add a touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the colorful stir-fried vegetables and tofu on a plate, placing the vibrant red and green bell peppers on top for an eye-catching presentation. Sprinkle sesame seeds and fresh cilantro over the dish for an added pop of color.