Textured vegetable protein can be used nearly anywhere you'd use ground beef; it will just need to be rehydrated first! To hydrate your TVP, you'll want to combine it with a liquid. On its own, TVP can be pretty bland in flavor, and while water can be used to rehydrate the protein, it's not the tastiest option. Textured vegetable protein takes on that taste of whatever you're cooking it with. Because of this, instead of using water, you may want to consider rehydrating your TVP with sauce, soup or vegetable broth.
Additionally, you'll want to choose your recipe beforehand and ensure that the seasonings you choose will work well with your recipe. If you're going to make lasagna, you will need to use the same herbs and spices to season your textured vegetable protein. For even more flavor, you can season your faux meat as it's cooking.
Worried about rehydrating your textured vegetable protein incorrectly? Hydrating TVP is a relatively straightforward process and only takes about 10 minutes in total. This quick-cooking time makes it a fast source of protein that you can add to several dishes. With a texture similar to ground meat, TVP works well in dishes like vegan casseroles and hearty chili recipes. Before purchasing your textured vegetable protein, you'll want to consider the consistency that would work best for the chosen recipe. From small chunks to thin flakes, there are several different types to choose from.
Turn your next taco Tuesday celebration into a plant-based one and use textured soy protein to replicate taco meat. Whether you're following a vegan/vegetarian diet or trying to eat less meat, these Vegetarian Tacos are the ideal recipe to ease you into the lifestyle. Because TVP takes on any flavor, taco seasoning, spices and fresh herbs can be used to create an actual meat-like flavor, making this plate one that everyone will enjoy.
Turn your outdoor dining area into a fun-filled mess hall by making these Textured Vegetable Protein Sloppy Joes. A fun meal to make and put together, this sloppy joe recipe is the perfect opportunity to invite your kids into the kitchen to help. Tasty and filling, enjoying this meal is an excellent way to boost your protein intake while spending time with the family. They're full of flavor and sure to become a favorite for everyone at the table.
Just one burger recipe per list wasn't enough. Put a spin on traditional burgers and use textured vegetable protein to create these delicious Deviled Burgers. Made with TVP, red hot sauce, ground cumin, and tomato paste, they're sure to add some spice to your current menujust make sure you have a glass of water to reach for! Once cooked, pair these burgers with whole wheat buns for a truly delicious meal.
Tip: Most store-bought Worcestershire Sauce contains anchovies, so make sure to use a vegetarian version if desired.
Now that you have a better idea of what textured soy protein is and how to use it, it's time to head to the kitchen. Using one of the six recipes above will quickly turn your plant-based journey into a more flavorful one. From sloppy joes to vegetarian tacos, there's a recipe on this list for everyone to enjoy. After you've mastered cooking with textured vegetable protein, we encourage you to get creative in the kitchen and try supplementing it in your favorite meals. Remember, with just a bit of flavoring and technique, you can work this meat alternative into nearly anything you'd like. From everyone at Bob's Red Mill, we wish you a flavor-filled and plant-based day!
Know of a delicious recipe that uses textured vegetable protein? We'd love to hear what you're whipping up with this plant-based meat alternative. Let us know your favorite TVP meals in the comments below!
