Cooking With Vegan Meat Substitutes

Written by LaTara Ham-Ying on January 30, 2008 at January 30th, 2008

When we transition over from meat eating to non-meat eating, one problem plagues us…..HOW DO I GET THE MEAT?

What I have come to learn is the the reason so many of us are into meat is not necessarily because of the taste but rather the texture. In the vegan world there are many ways to meet that desire for texture with the many ways we can create or purchase meat substitutes.

There are so many options for vegan meat substitutes and so many ways to prepare them.

Boca Burgers are not great option for burgers but for smothered “steaks”. Just make up a gravy and saute onions and garlic. Top your Boco Burger with gravy and serve over rice. You can even cut the burgers into slices and add right into the gravy to top your rice with.
TVP is a great option for many types of dishes Because it comes in different varieties like chicken, pork, bacon, beef, and sloppy joe there are tons of dishes you can create. The obvious are tacos, burritos, chili,stir fries, fried rice, and sloppy joes. But what about barbecue beef sandwiches, pot pies, fajitas, chowders, or “beef” stew?
Seitan is a great option for Ruben Sandwiches, roast “beef”, Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches, and Crock pot meals.
Tempeh can be used much like tofu and can be added to a salad as would chicken breast.
Tofu is great “fish” or “chicken” sticks, stir fries, salads, and so many other options. Actually if seasoned right and the texture is great then just about any dish can be kicked up a notch with Tofu.

Truth be told all the above substitutions can be used for more than what I listed and that is the great thing about vegan foods. That are so flexible in how they can be prepared. You can even do fried “chicken with the Morning Star Chicken starters.

As you transition or venture out into the world of vegan cooking, don’t be afraid to try. Most of my best dishes were created when I went into the kitchen and just tried.

You can find out more on this subject in an extensive section on vegan meat substitutes in my e-book, Transitioning Your Family With Ease: Simple Paths to Vegan Cooking.