Move aside tofu, there's a new favorite vegan ingredient taking the spotlight. TVP or textured vegetable protein is a soy-based meat alternative that is a complete source of protein. One of the many benefits of textured vegetable protein, aside from its meat-like texture and versatile flavor, is that it is an excellent protein source for individuals following a plant-based diet. Because of this, textured vegetable protein is used as a vegan and vegetarian friendly alternative.
If you're following a plant-based diet and searching for an excellent alternative to meat, TVP is bound to become your new favorite ingredient. Continue reading to learn more about this ingredient and how you can add it to everything from garden burgers to gravy.
5 Recipes That Use Textured Vegetable Protein
Knowing how and when to use textured vegetable protein may seem a bit tricky at the start. However, after you use it a few times, working this high-protein food into your weekly meals is a piece of cake. Here are five of our favorite TVP inspired recipes to help you get started.
Country Chili
When most people think of chili, they often think of unhealthy comfort food. However, when made with healthy, plant-based ingredients, chili can be a nutritious dish. Like this Country Chili, most of today's chili recipes are overflowing with good-for-you foods like beans, lentils and plant-based protein that work well alongside a healthy diet and lifestyle. The meat in traditional chili is an excellent source of protein. And, if you make your chili plant-based, using textured vegetable protein is a great way to maintain high protein levels while ditching the meat. Additionally, chili that's made with beans provides a second source of plant-based protein, which makes this comfort food an excellent dish to enjoy any time of year.
Sausage Crumbles
Searching for a plant-based breakfast that wraps up all of your favorite morning flavors into a single meal? A delicious breakfast like this Textured Vegetable Protein Breakfast Sausage Crumbles recipe can easily be made by rehydrating a bit of TVP. Whether these sausage crumbles are served as a part of a recipe or enjoyed on their own, they're a great way to continue to enjoy your favorite meals without animal products. The ideal combination of sweet and spicy ingredients, this substitute for breakfast sausage recreates all of your favorite flavors while adding heartiness to whatever it's mixed with. Perfect for making breakfast tacos or enjoyed skillet-style alongside potatoes, it's a dish that everyone will enjoy.
Vegan Biscuits Sausage and Gravy
Biscuits and gravy is a classic breakfast staple that has been popular for decades, especially in the midwest and the south. As a dish that we look forward to enjoying regularly, we set out to make sure that everyone could experience this meal—even those following a plant-based diet. While the traditional version of this recipe might not be the healthiest option out there, this Vegan Biscuits with Sausage and Gravy Dish uses whole food, plant-based ingredients to recreate the meal in a more health-conscious way. As a delightfully meatless brunch or fancy breakfast, this recipe is sure to please. Plus, you can use the veggie sausage recipe to add a bit of flavor to other recipes like casseroles and breakfast wraps.
Vegan Xiao Long Bao
Shanghai dumplings, also known as Xiao Long Bao, are Chinese steamed dumplings filled with hot soup. Though traditionally filled with meats like pork and crab, we created Vegan Xiao Long Bao that's made with our Textured Vegetable Protein. While mastering this recipe may take a bit of patience, it's well worth the effort. Make these dumplings and surprise the family, or whip up a plateful for your next dinner party.
Textured Vegetable Protein Brown Rice and Garden Burger
Burgers are always a great idea. The next time you're searching for a whole food recipe that everyone is sure to approve of, make these Protein Brown Rice and Garden Burgers. Flavorful and full of fiber and protein, it is the perfect meal to cook for guests of all ages. Plus, you don't need a barbecue to do so. Cook these burgers up on the stovetop or shape them into meatballs and bake them!
Now that you know how to use TVP, it’s time to start cooking. We hope that the five delicious recipes on this list have encouraged you to head to the kitchen and create a delightful meal with textured vegetable protein. This high-protein meat alternative is sure to spice up your weekly plant-based meals. From everyone at Bob's Red Mill, happy cooking!
Know of a tasty recipe that uses textured vegetable protein? We'd love to hear how you cook with this ingredient. Let us know more in the comments below!
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