Buddha’s Delight (Luohan Zhai)

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus soaking time for tofu skin and mushrooms)
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 6 dried shiitake mushrooms (or fresh if available)
• 1 sheet dried tofu skin (yuba), cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small piece of ginger, finely chopped or julienned
• 1 cup napa cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup bok choy, halved or quartered lengthwise
• 1 medium carrot, sliced into thin rounds or matchsticks
• 1 cup snow peas, trimmed
• ½ cup bamboo shoots (fresh or canned)
• ½ cup water chestnuts, sliced (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water (for thickening)

For Garnish:

• Toasted sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu Skin and Mushrooms

1. Soak the dried shiitake mushrooms in warm water for 20–30 minutes until softened. Remove the stems and slice the caps. Reserve the soaking liquid for added flavor.
2. Soak the tofu skin in warm water for 15–20 minutes until pliable. Drain and cut into 2-inch pieces.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, vegetable broth, and cornstarch slurry. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. Heat sesame oil in a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add shiitake mushrooms, napa cabbage, bok choy, carrots, snow peas, bamboo shoots, and water chestnuts. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.

Step 4: Add the Tofu Skin and Sauce

1. Stir in the tofu skin pieces and cook for 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and tofu skin. Stir well and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the Buddha’s Delight to a serving dish. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
2. Serve warm with steamed rice or noodles.

Tips & Variations:

• Customize vegetables: Add baby corn, lotus root, or shiitake mushroom caps for variety.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of chili oil or fresh chili slices for a kick.
• Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and skip the hoisin sauce.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

This Buddha’s Delight (Luohan Zhai) is a simple yet elegant dish that celebrates the natural flavors and textures of its ingredients. Enjoy this healthy, plant-based delight! 🌿✨