Trying to switch to a plant-based diet can be intimidating at first. With the climate change crisis lurking around us, it is high time we do our bit. Whether you are trying to embrace a sustainable lifestyle, or trying to avoid food allergies. No matter what your motivation to turn vegan might be, we can assure you there are huge benefits to it. Giving up meat is the best you can do for the environment. Veganism does not necessarily have to mean a lack of protein in your diet. There are delicious vegan meat alternatives, which are equally accessible. As good as meat, and you wouldn't even notice the difference!
7 best meat alternatives for a plant-based diet you should try
1. Tofu
High in protein content, and low in calories, Tofu is a soy-based meat replacement. Made from bean curds in a process similar to that of cheesemaking, Tofu readily absorbs any flavour you add to it. Easily accessible, affordable and healthy, Tofu is quite the versatile meat alternative. Tofu can be cut and cooked in a variety of ways. From giving it the shape of a steak to scrambling it like eggs, tofu is a wonderful meat replacement. Tofu also comes in several packages, there's silken tofu, soft tofu and extra firm tofu. From adding it to burgers, soups, curries and stews to stir-fried or teriyaki tofu, there are a number of tofu recipes you can try for your next meal.
2. Jackfruit
With its stringy texture like pulled pork, Jackfruit is the best possible meat alternative that exists out there. A tropical fruit, with a slight sweetness to it, jackfruit tastes best when paired with savoury sauces. Low in calorie content, and made up of starch and fibre, jackfruit has a natural meaty texture to it. Great for tacos and carnitas, jackfruit can also be made into curries and even biryani!
3. Tempeh
Tempeh is a soybean-based, high in protein, easy-to-cook vegan product that has made its recent entry into the world of plant-based food options. Rich in all nine essential amino acids, tempeh is rich in fibre and probiotics and is also loaded with health-supporting isoflavonoids. Because of its porous texture, tempeh readily absorbs flavours unlike tofu or paneer and tastes best when marinated before cooking. The chewy and thick texture of tempeh also makes it the perfect replacement for ground beef and can be used to make delicious vegan strips. Tempeh is not overly processed and is gluten-free, dairy-free and preservative-free. Stir-fried, scrambled or curried, make anything with tempeh. We suggest you try it now!
If you want to know more about tempeh and learn new recipes? Click here.
4. Paneer
A must in every Indian kitchen, paneer refers to a form of cottage cheese made from curdled milk. Probably not your quintessential vegan option since it is a dairy-based product, but if you are looking for a meat alternative, paneer is great. An essential component of Indian cuisine, paneer is used in a number of preparations. From starters, and curries to dessert, paneer is as versatile as the Indian culture itself!
To explore more about paneer, and know recipes other than the basics click here.
5. Soya
Rich in protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals, and containing all the essential amino acids, soya is a popular vegan food option. Made from legumes with their origin in Asia, soya is available in the form of soya chunks soya granules, and even soya milk. With its taste resembling that of chicken, soya can be prepared in a variety of ways. Chilli soya, stir-fried soya, soya cutlets, and even pav bhaji made from soya granules are some of the recipes we suggest you try.
If you want to learn an easy and quick soya recipe, click here.
6. Mushrooms
Mushrooms are now being readily recognized as plant-based alternatives to meat. With its unique flavour and dense and chewy texture mushroom is a great substitute for meat. With its slight umami flavour, mushrooms come in a variety of options to choose from. Fun fact, the lion’s mane mushroom makes for a great steak, you wouldn't even feel that it's not meat. Stir fry it, make curries or simply add as an accompaniment to a dish, make sure to use your culinary expertise and creativity while preparing a mushroom dish.
If you want to try out delicious recipes to make with mushrooms, click here.
7. Seitan
Made from gluten derived from wheat, seitan is a popular vegan substitute for meat. With its texture closely resembling that of meat when cooked, seitan is rich in protein content. Low in carbs and fat, seitan comes in a variety of options, which also include pre-flavoured packaging. Seitan is easy to cook with and can be pan-fried, sauteed or grilled. However, since it is a product made completely from wheat gluten, those sensitive to gluten must avoid it.