Meat Alternatives For Vegetarians: Tastes Like The Real Deal

NewsPoint

Oct 7, 2023

Mushroom

Mushrooms, especially varieties like portobello and shiitake, offer a savoury umami flavour and a meaty texture, making them excellent substitutes for meat in various dishes, from burgers to stir-fries.

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Tofu

Tofu's versatility allows it to take on the flavours of marinades and seasonings while providing a hearty, protein-rich texture akin to meat, making it a favourite in vegetarian and vegan recipes.

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Jackfruit

When cooked and seasoned, jackfruit's fibrous texture resembles pulled pork or shredded chicken, making it a popular choice for vegan barbecues and sandwiches.

Image Source: Freepik

Brinjal (Eggplant)

Grilled or roasted eggplant develops a smoky, meat-like quality, making it an ideal ingredient for dishes like vegetarian lasagna and moussaka.

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Lentils

Lentils, especially brown or green varieties, offer a hearty texture and a rich, earthy taste that can mimic ground meat in recipes like vegetarian chilli and shepherd's pie.

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Cauliflower

When roasted or grilled, cauliflower develops a satisfying crunch and absorbs flavours well, making it a versatile option for creating meat-like textures in dishes such as cauliflower "steaks" and buffalo cauliflower "wings."

Image Source: Freepik

Seitan

Seitan, also known as wheat gluten, boasts a chewy texture and absorbs seasonings, making it a popular choice for replicating the texture of meat in dishes like seitan stir-fries and sandwiches.

Image Source: Freepik

Soya Chunks

Soya chunks, made from soy protein, have a meaty texture when rehydrated and can be used in curries, stews, and kebabs as a protein-rich alternative to meat.

Image Source: Freepik

Chickpeas

Mashed or blended chickpeas can mimic the texture of ground meat, making them a versatile ingredient in vegetarian recipes like chickpea burgers, falafel, and vegan meatballs. Their mild flavour allows them to absorb various seasonings for a delicious meat-like experience.

Image Source: Freepik

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