Vegetarian food trail
1. Vegetarian dumplings at Din Tai Fung
Shop 3/1 Anderson St, Chatswood NSW 2067
Din Tai Fung is well known for having the tastiest dumplings around. One might know their signature xiao long bao (or pork broth dumplings) famed across the world for their precision and taste. But, did you know Din Tai Fung is also a place to find wonderful vegetarian food? Whether it be vegetarian spring rolls, vegetarian fritter bao or even a truffle mushroom fried rice, their menu is one that a vegetarian diner will enjoy.
It's vegetarian dumplings, arranged with 6 carefully crafted crescent shaped dumplings, are filled with a lovely mix of bean curd, bok choy, shiitake mushrooms and glass noodles, served in a bamboo steamer. I also ordered a serve of the spicy dumplings, with the vegetarian dumplings sitting in a tangy spicy broth. Don’t worry, it’s not too hot, it is a good blend of chilli oil and soy.
2. Vegetarian ramen at Ramen Zundo
R11 260 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood NSW 2067
There is nothing quite like the warm feeling that a good soup broth can provide on a wet dreary day, or on any day really, and a ramen is a perfect choice. Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup commonly made with a pork broth, pork chashu toppings and wheat style noodles. At Ramen Zundo you’ll find an amazing vegetarian ramen along with an extensive vegan and vegetarian menu. It was a transformative experience, especially the vegetarian ramen made with a superb silky umami filled vegetarian broth made with soy. There is also a miso option. It’s ramen has a traditional nori sheet, adding another level of flavour to the dish, as do the seasoned bamboo shoots, providing good texture to the dish. The bean sprouts that top the noodles, provide the crunch and freshness to the ramen. It’s finished off with a large piece of agedashi tofu on top. The soft silken tofu cube is lightly battered, providing a delicious element to the soup. I also ordered a side of edamame and cabbage salad for further added freshness. This was a nourishing meal, full of complex flavours and will be sure to take you on a wonderful flavour journey.
3. Israeli breakfast at Shuk
Shop R03/260 Victoria Ave, Chatswood NSW 2067
Israel is another one of those countries that draws people from near and far for a spiritual journey. It’s a mecca and epicentre for migration and has such seen influence from many nations over the years with a huge variety of foods offered in marketplaces and restaurants. Shuk, meaning market, has been inspired by this history and visiting the cafe in Chatswood will awaken you to a vast array of vegetarian options.
One of Israel’s most famous breakfasts is served at Shuk and is a must-order dish. The Israeli breakfast is a huge platter of slices of toast, complete with small dishes of dips and spreads to add to your toast such as butter, jam, hummus, tahini, avocado and your choice of eggs; scrambled or fried. You’ll also be served some olives and a pot of granola, fruit and yoghurt. It’s a great dish to share with a friend, or you can order some pastries such as I did; the mini potato boureka and mini rogelach (cinnamon and chocolate) along with a coffee or tea.
Written by thewhereto
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