I live in a small town and do not have access to some ingredients - what would you use to replace black vinegar and the mushroom seasoning? Thanks

mjenson
  • Posted by: mjenson
  • January 14, 2022
  • 751 views
  • 4 Comments
Vegan Tofu Wontons in Chile Oil
Recipe question for: Vegan Tofu Wontons in Chile Oil

4 Comments

ariel A. January 20, 2022
It won't have quite the same flavor, but you could try replacing the black vinegar with rice vinegar or rice wine vinegar.

In place of the mushroom seasoning or maggi seasoning, you'd want to use something with a nice and strong umami flavor. If you are already getting dried mushrooms for the recipe, you could add an extra mushroom or 2 the hot water you're soaking them in, and then cook the soaking liquid down into a concentrate! Might give the dish a little extra punch of umami.
 
702551 January 14, 2022
If the ingredients you are seeking are shelf stable (and not just the two you asked for here), there's no reason not to consider online retailers.

And there is nothing stopping you from asking your local mom-and-pop stores to place a special order. After all, most of this stuff probably ships from the same wholesale warehouse that supplies the nearby big city restaurants. You just need to plan ahead and ask.
 
KLS January 14, 2022
You can use rice vinegar and maggi seasoning as substitutes.
 
Nancy January 14, 2022
And/or if you accumulate a list of needed ingredients not available in your town, you could order them from a general online store or specialty merchants (spices, produce, various national cuisines).
 
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