Being Vegetarian and Traveling in China
According to a 2014 study, only 5% of Chinese people are vegetarian or vegan. But let's debunk the myths! Being vegetarian in China is far from impossible.
According to a 2014 study, only 5% of Chinese people are vegetarian or vegan. But let's debunk the myths ! Being vegetarian in China is far from impossible. Although Chinese cuisine is particularly meat-heavy, it is nonetheless possible for vegetarian travelers to find what they're looking for.
The Chinese understand perfectly well that you may be vegetarian since Buddhist traditions advocate for respect of the animal kingdom and strongly limit meat consumption. In fact, Buddhist temples often have their own vegetarian restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious meal at reasonable prices.
However, the Chinese have not forgotten the terrible famines of the 1950s-60s. Due to these long periods of scarcity, eating meat in traditional culture is a symbol of health, social progress, and material prosperity. In China, vegetables are often cooked in animal fat and soups are primarily based on chicken or beef broth.
That said, vegetarianism is experiencing a resurgence of interest in major cities like Beijing, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong, which have seen the emergence of upscale vegetarian restaurants in recent years. Most of Chinese vegetarian cuisine consists of dishes made with "mock meat" based on tofu, wheat gluten, and vegetables.
If you feel like it, nothing stops you from heading to the local market and choosing your fruits and vegetables to prepare to your taste. This would give you a wonderful insight into local culture and allow you to immerse yourself in the daily lives of the Chinese.
A LITTLE VOCABULARY
- I don't eat meat : Wŏ bù chī roù - Is this meat ? : Shì roù má ? - Rice : Fàn - Shrimp : Xiā - Fish : Yú - Vegetables : Shūcài - Tofu : Dòufu - Mushrooms : Mógū - Noodles : Miàntiáo
Frequently asked questions
No, although Chinese cuisine is often meat-based, it is entirely possible to travel in China as a vegetarian. Major cities like Beijing, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong have numerous vegetarian restaurants. In Buddhist temples, you will also find tasty and affordable vegetarian food.
To indicate that you are vegetarian to a server or at a market, you can say: 'Wŏ bù chī roù' (我不吃肉), which literally means 'I don't eat meat'. To ask if a dish contains meat, say: 'Shì roù má ?' (是肉吗 ?).
Chinese vegetarian cuisine relies heavily on tofu, wheat gluten (often prepared as 'mock meat'), mushrooms, sautéed vegetables, and noodles. Buddhist temple restaurants also offer elaborate meat and fish-free dishes.
In major Chinese cities like Beijing, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong, vegetarian restaurants have multiplied in recent years. Buddhist temples often have their own vegetarian canteen at reasonable prices. In rural areas, the selection is more limited, and it's better to turn to local markets to buy fresh fruits and vegetables.
Be aware: in China, vegetables are sometimes cooked in animal fat, and soups may be prepared with chicken or beef broth. It is therefore important to clearly state your dietary restrictions. Using the phrase 'Wŏ bù chī roù' and asking about ingredients will help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
