Pf Chang’s Buddha’s Feast Price: $19.00 | Calories: 740 Cal
The Buddha’s Feast is one of the most iconic vegetarian entrees at Pf Chang’s, offering a wholesome mix of fresh vegetables, tofu, and savory Asian flavors. This dish caters to those who prefer plant-based meals but still want bold, satisfying taste. Whether stir-fried or steamed, the Buddha’s Feast is known for its light yet filling nature, making it a go-to choice for health-conscious diners or anyone seeking a balanced entrée without meat.
Credits: @pfchangs
At P.F. Chang’s, the menu offers a wide range of Asian-inspired dishes to suit every taste. Guests can begin with flavorful Appetizers, then enjoy hearty Bowls or signature Entrees. Comfort classics include fresh Rice and delicious Noodles, while lighter options such as warm Soups and crisp Salads are also available. To round out the meal, explore flavorful Sides, and don’t forget the specially crafted Kids’ Menu designed for younger diners.
Price & Calories
- Price: $19.00
- Calories: 740 Cal
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 740 Cal | – |
| Total Fat | 36 g | 46% |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g | 30% |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 1,420 mg | 62% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 74 g | 27% |
| Dietary Fiber | 9 g | 32% |
| Total Sugars | 16 g | – |
| Protein | 31 g | – |
| Iron | 7 mg | 39% |
| Calcium | 340 mg | 26% |
| Potassium | 980 mg | 21% |
(Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values may vary slightly depending on preparation style.)
Buddha’s Feast has 740 calories and 31g of protein. But what do these numbers actually mean for you?
- The Sodium Situation (1,420mg): This is the biggest nutritional consideration. At 62% of your daily value, this is very high. For context, it’s comparable to some fast-food burgers. If you have blood pressure concerns, this is a red flag. My Recommendation: I always ask for the sauce on the side. This simple request allows me to control the saltiness and easily cuts the sodium by half or more.
- The Fat Content (36g): Where is this fat coming from? The answer lies in the “lightly fried” tofu. While 6g of saturated fat isn’t extreme, opting for steamed tofu is a guaranteed way to reduce the total and saturated fat significantly, making the dish much lighter.
- The Power of Fiber (9g): This is a standout feature. With 32% of your daily fiber, this dish will keep you full and satisfied for hours, thanks to the generous serving of broccoli, snap peas, and carrots.
Ingredients in Buddha’s Feast Entrée
- Firm tofu (lightly fried or steamed, depending on preference)
- Broccoli
- Snap peas
- Mushrooms
- Carrots
- Asparagus
- Garlic soy sauce blend
- Choice of steamed or stir-fried preparation
Allergen Information
- Contains: Soy, Wheat
- May Contain: Gluten cross-contact depending on preparation
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Yes
- Vegan-Friendly: Yes (when requested with steamed preparation and without egg-based ingredients)
Honest Taste Test & Experience
I ordered the stir-fried version to experience the full intended flavor.
- First Impressions: The dish arrived sizzling with a vibrant color palette of green, orange, and white. It looked fresh and appetizing.
- Flavor Profile: The garlic-soy sauce is the star—it’s savory, slightly sweet, and umami-rich. The vegetables weren’t mushy; they had a perfect tender-crisp texture that provided a satisfying crunch. The fried tofu had a pleasant, chewy exterior and soft interior, acting like a flavor sponge for the sauce.
- How Filling Is It? Paired with a side of brown rice (an extra charge), the dish was incredibly filling. The combination of protein and fiber is a powerhouse against hunger. I found it to be a complete and satisfying entree.
Why Choose Buddha’s Feast?
The Buddha’s Feast is ideal for diners looking for a healthier alternative to heavier meat entrées. It provides a great source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential vitamins while still delivering on taste. Its flexibility between steamed and stir-fried styles makes it appealing to both calorie-conscious and flavor-focused guests.
How to Customize Your Buddha’s Feast for Your Diet
This is where you can transform a standard menu item into your perfect meal. Here’s a pro-tip guide based on my experience and server recommendations:
- For a Lower-Calorie Meal: Request it steamed with the sauce on the side. This simple change can reduce the calories and fat by at least 30%.
- To Make It Vegan: Explicitly state you want the vegan preparation. While the sauce is typically plant-based, cross-contamination or variations can occur. Confirming “vegan” alerts the kitchen to be meticulous.
- For Gluten-Free Diners: You must ask for gluten-free soy sauce. PF Chang’s has it, but it’s not default. The stir-fried version may still have a cross-contact risk, so if you have celiac disease, the steamed option is safer.
- To Boost Flavor Without Sodium: Ask for extra garlic, a squeeze of fresh lime, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Is PF Chang’s Buddha’s Feast Worth $19?
Let’s be honest, $19 for a vegetable dish gives one pause. Here’s my take on the value proposition:
- The Portion Size: It’s substantial. You are not getting a small plate of veggies. This is a large, shareable entree or a meal that will likely provide leftovers.
- The Ingredient Quality: The vegetables are consistently fresh and well-prepared, a step above what you might find at a more casual chain.
- The “Health Tax”: Like many healthier options at restaurants, there is a premium price. You are paying for a thoughtfully crafted, dietitian-approved plant-based meal in a sit-down environment.
If you customize it to fit your nutritional needs and appreciate high-quality ingredients, it can be worth the occasional splurge.
FAQs: Pf Chang’s Buddha’s Feast
Is Buddha’s Feast at Pf Chang’s vegan?
Yes, the Buddha’s Feast can be made vegan. When ordered steamed, it is completely plant-based, featuring tofu and fresh vegetables with a soy garlic sauce. If stir-fried, confirm with your server to ensure no animal-based ingredients (like oyster sauce) are included.
How healthy is the Buddha’s Feast?
With 740 calories, 31 grams of protein, and 9 grams of fiber, it’s a nutrient-dense dish. Unlike heavier fried entrées, this dish is lower in cholesterol and provides a variety of vitamins from fresh vegetables. However, the sodium level (1,420 mg) is on the higher side, so those watching salt intake may want to request a light sauce.
Can I customize the Buddha’s Feast?
Yes, Pf Chang’s allows customization. You can request extra vegetables, a steamed version for fewer calories and fat, or add brown rice for added fiber. This flexibility makes it an excellent option for those with specific dietary preferences.
What does the Buddha’s Feast taste like compared to meat-based bowls?
While it doesn’t have the richness of beef or chicken dishes, the tofu absorbs the savory garlic soy sauce beautifully. The freshness of the vegetables creates a lighter but equally satisfying experience. For guests who enjoy lighter, plant-based meals, it’s one of the most flavorful vegetarian entrées on the menu.
Is the Buddha’s Feast filling enough as a main dish?
Absolutely. With its balance of protein-rich tofu, fiber-packed vegetables, and carbohydrates when paired with rice or noodles, it provides a complete, filling entrée that satisfies most appetites without feeling overly heavy.
Does Pf Chang’s offer a gluten-free version of the Buddhas Feast?
Some locations may offer a gluten-free soy sauce alternative upon request. The steamed version is easier to make gluten-free than the stir-fried one, as the stir-fry process typically involves wheat-based sauces. Always confirm with your server.
Conclusion
The Pf Chang’s Buddha’s Feast Entree is a standout vegetarian entrée that balances flavor, nutrition, and flexibility. With tofu and fresh vegetables served either steamed or stir-fried, it’s a versatile dish that appeals to vegans, vegetarians, and health-conscious diners alike. While slightly higher in sodium, it’s rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a smart and delicious option on the menu. For those looking for a plant-forward meal that doesn’t compromise on taste, the Buddha’s Feast is an excellent choice.
